Parks & Recreation

For a look at our living, growing and flourishing natural history, head outdoors to The Morton Arboretum, on Route 53, just north of I-88. Open 365 days a year, the arboretum is worth at least one visit during every season of the year.

Established in 1922 by Joy Morton (1855-1934), the owner of Morton Salt Company, the 1,700-acre botanical garden and world-renowned research facility showcases a large variety of plant collections and natural areas ç including oak woodlands, wetlands, maple and elm collections and a restored native prairie. Whether you're hiking the arboretum's 14 miles of trails, touring the display gardens, marveling at century-old oaks, watching the leaves change, enrolling in a class or enjoying a family activity ç you're sure to come away with treasured memories and an expanded knowledge of the plant world.

In April, the Lisle Area Chamber of Commerce 5K Race/Walk Youth Run is held on the 5K course in Community Park. Kids can also participate in this annual event. Seven- to 13-year olds run a one-half mile race, and ages three to six compete in the Tot Run ç a 50-yard dash measured out on the Lisle High School practice football field.

The Lisle Park District ensures that you and your family will have loads of opportunities for indoor and outdoor recreation. The Park District takes pride in the quality, variety and maintenance of its 42 parks and facilities. It oversees more than 500 acres of land, including the 110-acre Community Park ç the distracts centerpiece. The park (1825 Short Street) is home to VanKampen Stage outdoor amphitheater, pond fishing, sledding hills, 2.2 winding miles of paved trails and the award-winning Sea Lion Aquatic Park.

The Sea Lion Aquatic Park maintains a large open swim area that slopes upward to a zero-depth shallow end, five waterslides, sand play, three whirlpool spas and many other amenities. The newly remodeled facility opened in the summer of 2004.

Community Park is also home to Community Park Fitness Center, which features a full-service line of circuit-training equipment, cardiovascular equipment, free weights and a beautiful view of the park.

Lisle Park Distracts River Bend Golf Course (5900 S. Route 53) is one of the top-rated nine-hole courses in the Chicago area. The courseÌs link-style layout features scenic wetland areas, and water comes into play on eight of the nine holes. The par 36 design can play up to 3,500 yards. River Bend Golf Course also has a PGA-approved clubhouse, offering a full line of custom equipment and apparel. A new clubhouse opened in summer 2003, and features full food and beverage service, an improved pro shop and other golfing amenities.

For more information about the Lisle Park DistrictÌs parks and year-round programs, please call 630-964-3410 or visit www.lisleparkdistrict.org.

In addition to athletic programs sponsored by the park district, ball players can hone their skills by signing up for instruction at the Bulls/Sox Training Academy, owned and operated by the Chicago Bulls and Chicago White Sox. League play is available year round. When the snow flies, strap on a pair of skis and schuss down the ski hills at Four Lakes Village.