The Park & Recreation Department has designed quality
programs that encourages community participation and meets the
diverse recreational needs of all of its citizens. Through
numerous activities, programs and special events throughout
the year, all age groups of the community are given the
opportunity to participate and interact. The availability of quality
leisure programs helps to strengthen the community, provide
its youth constructive activities, and improve the overall
quality of life of its citizens. You can visit them at
their
website.
The Park & Recreation Department has created a
reference guide for information regarding Belk Park Golf
Course, Aquatic Center and approximately 50 different programs
and activities for youth, teens, adults and senior citizens.
The Park & Recreation Department hopes this guide will
help inform residents of the fees, availability and
registration information of the various programs. A free guide
is available at the Roundhouse located at 633 North Wood River
Avenue or by calling the Park and Recreation Department at
(618) 251-3130 to receive one by mail.
Belk Park Golf Course
In 1953, the City received a generous land donation from
the Belk family of approximately 234 acres to create of an
18-hole championship public golf course and park. Today, this
estimated $12 million facility draws more than 50,000 visitors
a year through numerous tournaments, open play and special
events. It has been recognized as one of the most popular
public golf courses in the St. Louis Metro area. In addition,
the Course was the winner of Golf Digest’s "Places to
Play-4 Star Award". The City continues investing in
improvements to the golf course with the addition of zoysia
fairways, clubhouse expansions, installation of forward tees
and the installation of senior and ladies tee boxes. These improvements have made playing the course
enjoyable for all and a destination of choice for business
outings and public recreation.
The facility also includes banquet accommodations for
business meetings, rehearsal dinners, parties or other
gatherings. For more information regarding availability for a
tournament, golf lessons or reserving a banquet date, please
contact the Golf Pro/Manager at (618) 251-3115 or visit the
web site at www.belkpark.com.
Aquatic Center
The Aquatic Center is a $4 million water recreational
complex that everyone in the family can enjoy. The younger
children can safely play in the wading pool while older
children can splash around the Olympic size pool. Teenagers
have a great time hanging out with friends and enjoying the
two 4-story high water slides with 320 feet of incredible
turns, diving wells with a 1 and 3-meter board and volleyball
court. For parents and sunbathers relaxing is not a problem
with the 200 available chaise lounges and more than 8
lifeguards keeping the complex safe.
This regional attraction draws more than 40,000 visitors
annually and provides numerous 
water programs and events. The pool, slide or both can be
rented for an exciting birthday party or other special
occasion. Everyone can have a fun time at this water
recreational facility located at 670 Whitelaw Avenue.
For more information on
hours, rates, rental, water programs or
summer employment at the Aquatic Center, please contact the
Parks and Recreation Department at (618) 251-3130.
Park Facilities
With 8 parks and more than 273.5 acres of recreational
space, residents can enjoy virtually any outdoor activity.
Many of the parks already have available amenities such as BBQ
grills, shelters, parking and restrooms for outings and
picnics. Through a substantial corporate donation from both BP
and Triad Industries, the City was able to replace most of its
playground equipment with state of the are equipment area
children will enjoy for years to come. Additionally, the convenient location of the parks throughout the
City allow children safe access to basketball courts, soccer,
baseball/softball fields and playgrounds that are close to
home.
For information regarding renting a shelter for an outdoor
gathering in one of the city parks, please contact the City
Clerk at (618) 251-3100.
Recreation Activities and Special Events
Throughout the year, the Park & Recreation Department
provides residents of all ages a diverse selection of
activities and events to choose from. Children and teenagers
can take advantage of the numerous camps, clinics and
instructional lessons to maintain or improve in sports or
other activities. Groups can participate in the many sport
tournaments and leagues that are available throughout the
different seasons. Everyone can enjoy the special events that
happen regularly such as summer concerts, breakfast with Santa
and baseball games at Busch Stadium.
For more information regarding fees, availability of
programs and registration, please contact the Parks &
Recreation Department at (618) 251-3130.
