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Splash Country, Phillips Park ready to reopen this summer in Aurora

Absent of splashdowns, sand volleyball and dumping coconut trees, the Fox Valley Park District's two outdoor aquatics centers didn't see a drip of action in 2020.

But that's about to change, as Phillips Park Family Aquatic Center and Splash Country Water Park are set to open shortly - events worthy of being considered as the unofficial kickoff to summer.

Phillips Park, 828 Montgomery Road in Aurora, opens Memorial Day Weekend (May 29-31), before the official season runs June 5 to Aug. 15. Splash Country's season is set for June 12 to Aug. 8.

"Having the aquatic parks open feels like one, big step toward getting back to normal," said Sandie Gilmer, superintendent of recreation. "We're excited to be back up and operating, and look forward to hearing the sounds of the summer season return to our pools."

The Fox Valley Park District remains committed to following protocols outlined in the state's Restore Illinois plan.

Because Phillips will open during the current "Bridge Phase," the park district will enforce capacity limits and dedicated time slots, as mandated by state regulations. Therefore, guests at Phillips are strongly encouraged to schedule their 3½-hour time slot at www.phillipsparkaquatics.info/admission/ and purchase their tickets online, which will guarantee entry. (Note: Walkups are welcome at Phillips, but admission will not be available at the gate once capacity limits are reached.)

Should the state move into Phase 5 on Friday, June 11, as predicted, Splash, at 195 S. Barnes Road, will open on Saturday, June 12, without restrictions, and Phillips will return to full capacity.

Daily admission for both pools costs $8 for residents ($12 for nonresidents) weekdays, and $9/$13 on weekends and holidays. Guests can also take advantage of the season pass virtual flash sale and save $10 now through June 11 at www.foxvalleyparkdistrict.org. Season passes allow for unlimited access to both Splash and Phillips.

The new season also brings new opportunities at Phillips Park:

• Parent/Tot Swim (9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday; $3): For families with children under 6, only the sand, "Shipwreck," and shallow areas of the main pool will be open.

• Lap swim (designated times only, $3): One lap lane available for swimmers 12 or older.

• Adult Float (Sundays only, $5): No slides, just quiet, adult time in the main pool and diving well, ages 18 or older.

For more information on either park, visit www.foxvalleyparkdistrict.org/facilities/aquatics/.

Splash Country Water Park in Aurora is scheduled to open Saturday, June 12. Courtesy of Fox Valley Park District
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