Phillips Park

Phillips Park, spanning over 325 acres in Aurora, Illinois, is a historic and multifaceted recreational area operated by the City of Aurora Parks and Recreation Department. Established in 1899 and officially dedicated in 1902, the park is named after Travis Phillips, a former mayor and alderman whose estate funded its purchase. The park is celebrated as the "crown jewel" of Aurora's park system and offers a wide variety of attractions and activities for all ages.

The Phillips Park Zoo, founded in 1915, is one of the park’s highlights. Open year-round with no admission fee, it features approximately 100 animals representing 41 species, including North American river otters, bald eagles, cougars, and gray wolves. Exhibits also include farmyard animals and reptiles, alongside educational displays provided by the ZooCiety in its Education Center. Conservation efforts and local wildlife education are key components of its mission.

For those interested in history and nature, Mastodon Lake is central to the park. During excavation in the 1930s, fossils of mastodons (extinct elephant-like mammals) were discovered, and today these finds are displayed at the park’s Visitor Center. The lake is surrounded by the Mastodon Trail, a one-mile multi-use path equipped with fitness stations and a floating dock for boating and fishing. Outside the Visitor Center, the Sunken Gardens offer an ornate space featuring beautifully maintained flora, a lighted fountain, and multi-level walkways.

Other significant amenities include the Phillips Park Family Aquatic Center, which boasts pools with slides, a splash pad, sand volleyball courts, and lap lanes. Nearby, the Phillips Park Golf Course provides an 18-hole championship layout with modern facilities such as a driving range and clubhouse. More active recreational opportunities include tennis courts, a BMX/skate park, sand volleyball courts, softball fields, and a dog park.

Cultural and historical elements are also well represented. Visitors can explore a waterfall, World War I cannons, veterans memorials, and mastodon sculptures. Picnic shelters, a large playground, and open green spaces provide areas for relaxation, while seasonal events frequently add to the appeal.

Phillips Park maintains a balance of historical preservation, natural beauty, and community recreation, making it a versatile destination for both residents and tourists.