01
Address
100 Park Blvd, Chillicothe
02
Phone
(309) 274-3409
03
Features
Clubhouse, Swimming Pool, Lighted Softball Field, 2 Pavilions, Basketball Court, Tennis/Pickleball Courts, Disc Golf Course, Illinois River Views
In 1995, Shore Acres Clubhouse was named to the National Registry of Historic Places. Shore Acres Clubhouse is the only building in Chillicothe to be named to the registry, and this honor will ensure the protection and integrity of the building.
In 2018, the Chillicothe Park District announced the Shore Acres Park Master Plan. This plan will protect the integrity of the park for future generations.
The most popular park among Chillicotheans has been used by residents since the early 1890s. During James Kinlooch’s term as mayor, the “Old Woods” property came up for sale. The mayor was farsighted enough to realize that it would make an ideal city park. Called Columbia Park, the property became a popular gathering place almost overnight. Picnics, family reunions, and neighborhood ball games all found their way to the new park. Sunday crowds were so large that a dance pavilion was built and band concerts filled the air with music each Sunday afternoon. Columbia Park became so popular that steamboats had to stop there to let off picnickers from Lacon, Henry, Pekin, and Peoria.
About 1913, the name of the park was changed to the Peoria Auto Club. A clubhouse was built, and it became a special place for those wealthy enough to own a car. By the early 1920s, the newness of the car was wearing off, and the name of the park was changed again, this time to North Shore Country Club. A nine-hole golf course added to its popularity and prestige.
In the late 1930s, Frank Myers bought the property and changed the name to Shore Acres Park. 1948 found the land in the hands of the Chillicothe Park District.
Today, Shore Acres is still the most popular gathering place for area residents. The old clubhouse has been rejuvenated by local organizations and the park board. The new aquatic center is in constant use during the summer, and the lighted softball field attracts teams from throughout the area. Tennis/Pickleball & basketball courts are located south of the swimming pool. Two beautiful pavilions can be found at the north and south ends of the park, and a disc golf course and Riggins River Walk provide scenic views of the Illinois River.
The clubhouse and grounds are being watched over by the park board to ensure area residents will always have this beautiful park.
In 2018, the constituents of the Chillicothe Park District were asked to provide input on the future of Shore Acres Park. Public input was instrumental in the master planning process for Phase I and will continue to be needed to ensure that future phases of the master plan implementation reflect the desires of the community. With assistance from the Chillicothe Parks Foundation, this project will enhance accessibility and provide much needed improvements to Shore Acres Park.
Discover everything you're looking for at Chillicothe Park District, conveniently categorized into Facilities, Rentals, Activities, and Foundation for easy access to your desired experience.
A blissful event designed for relaxation and enjoyment. Come indulge in a calming yoga experience while enjoying a refreshing Nat's beverage. Register Here
Join us for a morning of fun, fresh air, and steps through our local parks!
Join Rosie Acres Bakery and learn the fine art of cookie decorating. Class includes cookies, icing and all the tools! Children under the age of 15 must register with a […]
Join Rosie Acres Bakery and learn the fine art of cookie decorating. Class includes cookies, icing and all the tools! Children under the age of 15 must register with a […]
Registration can be done online starting May 1st or at Shore Acres Pool starting on June 4th Swimming Lessons are held Tuesday & Thursday for four (4) weeks. Each lesson […]
Come enjoy a free cup of coffee/tea, snacks, and casual conversation with the Park District and other local entities on upcoming projects benefiting the community.
Join us for a morning of fun, fresh air, and steps through our local parks!
Dive into summer fun at Shore Acres Pool! Shore Acres Pool is an outdoor aquatic facility operated by the Chillicothe Park District. The facility includes two water slides, a diving […]
Come enjoy a free cup of coffee/tea, snacks, and casual conversation with the Park District and other local entities on upcoming projects benefiting the community.
Registration can be done online starting May 1st or at Shore Acres Pool starting on June 4th Swimming Lessons are held Tuesday & Thursday for four (4) weeks. Each lesson is […]
Registration can be done online starting May 1st or at Shore Acres Pool starting on June 4th Swimming Lessons are held Tuesday & Thursday for four (4) weeks. Each lesson is […]
Registration can be done online starting May 1st or at Shore Acres Pool starting on June 4th Swimming Lessons are held Tuesday & Thursday for four (4) weeks. Each lesson is […]
