Summer is a wonderful time to explore the incredible outdoor spaces around Jacksonville, but soaring temperatures can drain your fun as well as your energy — the hot, muggy weather of the Midwest has a way of driving people back inside as much as a winter snowstorm does. Don’t let the scorching sunlight incinerate your plans; Jacksonville is full of ways to enjoy the outdoors without letting the heat spoil your good time.
Make a Splash
Dive into a summertime favorite at Nichols Park Pool! This Olympic-size pool in the middle of Jacksonville’s largest park includes a shallow playground area for young swimmers as well as a water slide and diving area. The pool is open 12:30-6 p.m. daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day and is also available for party rentals.
Cruise the Lakes
Whether you prefer to travel by paddle or the high-speed thrill of an outboard motor, the lakes in Jacksonville promise a day of fun set against the Central Illinois outdoors. Covering nearly 500 acres, Lake Jacksonville has long been regarded as one of the top largemouth bass fishing destinations in the state. Spend a day hunting your next trophy or go for a more wet-and-wild approach — water skiing and tubing are cherished pastimes on the lake too!
Located at Nichols Park, the 200-acre Lake Mauvaisterre provides a more serene experience for kayakers, canoers, and anglers alike; while motorboats are allowed on the lake, engines are limited to 25 horsepower or must operate at idling speed. Cast a line or simply coast through the still waters — both great ways to enjoy a bright, sunny day in the park.
Treat Yourself
Got a sweet tooth? A few eateries around the Jacksonville area specialize in delicious, frozen confections. The family-friendly Charlie’s Ice Cream Shop is famous for its Tornadoes that include a variety of flavors — from Oreo and Snickers to cherry pie and Brownie Blast — as well as sundaes, milkshakes, malts, and hand-dipped Blue Bunny ice cream. BurgerBoard may be known for its menu of savory smashburgers and crinkle-cut fries. But this throwback burger joint also serves an incredible variety of milkshakes with 16 flavors, plus sundaes and concretes. In nearby Murrayville, the family-owned Heavenly Delight slings a variety of sweet sundaes in bold, innovative flavors like Apple Pie Delight and the not-so-secret Sweet Bee Butter.
Evening Events
When the sun dips below the horizon and offers a break from the heat, the outdoor fun really kicks off around Jacksonville. The Jacksonville Main Street Downtown Concert Series promises a free evening of toe-tapping tunes for the whole family every Friday in the Central Park square through the end of July. Cool off at The Plaza and sip the refreshing flavors of Central Illinois at Springfield Beer Co., or enjoy some friendly competition while axe throwing at The Vault. Numerous venues around town also host live music throughout the summer — including KJB’s, which also features a refreshing menu of craft beers as well as non-alcoholic, fresh-pressed juices, the perfect way to unwind after a long, hot summer day.
There’s always something fun happening in Jacksonville! Check out our Events Calendar full of memorable events all summer long!