West Side Park - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Meadowbrook Park, is the perfect place for a family picnic. This beloved park is filled with stunning scenery and plenty of activities to do within its 180 acres. Not only does Meadowbrook boast two swimming ponds and a 2.4-mile long scenic trail that winds through the park's extensive meadows and lush green grasses, but visitors will also be delighted to find playgrounds, basketball courts, baseball fields, and an 18-hole disc golf course.

The State Farm Center, is a beloved local venue for entertainment and events. This prominent centerpiece hosts major concerts, sporting events for University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign teams, as well as graduations and other large gatherings. These huge events are made comfortable and memorable by the recently upgraded facility that features modernized amenities including disability access upgrades, an 800-space parking garage, LED video boards and improved acoustics.

Dodds Park is a picturesque park with and endless amount of outdoor activities. Located near the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Land of Lincoln bike trails, it's an ideal spot for university students to take a rest and enjoy the outdoors. Dodds Park features a beach volleyball court, a boat ramp, fishing areas with rental boats, picnic sites featuring shaded trees, a family fitness park with exercise equipment, and multi-use sports fields perfect for football or soccer games.

Japan House at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is an oasis of tranquility and beauty for the students and people of Champaign county. The cultural center provides a unique opportunity to experience the traditions, art, and daily life of Japan in a breathtaking setting of Japanese gardens and koi ponds. Visitors can explore Japanese painting, flower arrangement, calligraphy, tea ceremony, chopstick making, and many other activities led by experts from around the world.

The Sholem Aquatic Center is a family-friendly water park featuring two large slides, four lazy rivers, and an interactive children's area, the Sholem Aquatic Center offers guests of all ages the opportunity to make a splash! From open swim sessions to summer camp programs and birthday parties, this popular attraction offers fun for everyone. Offering group discounts and season passes that feature unlimited visits, the Sholem Aquatic Center is an excellent value in entertainment.

Centennial Park, is an oasis of recreational activities and stunning scenery. The 300-acre park allows visitors to relax and connect with nature through its hiking trails, disc golf courses, fishing, picnic area and playgrounds. Nature lovers can observe several different species of butterflies and birds in the park's varied habitats. If you are feeling adventurous, take a ride on the park's biking and bridle trails. There are numerous amenities available.