Parks

The Mt. Vernon Parks and Recreation Department offers a variety of interesting, exciting, and fun things to do, as well as services to residents and visitors to Mt. Vernon. The Department’s mission is to improve the quality of life within the community by providing activities, facilities, and opportunities for enhanced physical, mental, and social health. Read more about all the amenities offered and then go have fun!

The Commons

The Commons is a vibrant green space located in the heart of downtown Mt. Vernon. Designed for relaxation, recreation, and community events, the area features a variety of seating options including picnic-style tables with benches, bistro-style tables and chairs, and Adirondack chairs. Four porch-style swings offer additional spots to unwind, all set around an open lawn and a dedicated children’s play area with a soft surface and rounded, climbable features.

Amenities include public restrooms, two bike racks, and a drinking fountain with a water bottle filler, making The Commons a convenient and comfortable destination for residents and visitors alike. Located within the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA), guests can also enjoy beverages from participating downtown establishments while spending time in the space.

The Commons is home to a wide range of events throughout the year, including Market Days on the second Saturday of each month from April through October, and Friday’s Food & Art on the first Friday of each month, May through October, from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. It also serves as a central hub for annual celebrations such as Brew Fest, Fall Fest, and Christmas on the Square.

Whether attending a local event, meeting friends, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon, The Commons is a welcoming space that brings the community together in the heart of Mt. Vernon.

Veteran's Park

Located at 800 South 27th Street, Veterans Park offers two playgrounds, one tot lot, one pickleball court, six tennis courts, two basketball courts, a skating area, a one-mile walking/biking trail, and a frisbee golf course.

Veterans Park is also home to a scenic six-acre lake featuring three lighted fountains and two islands connected by foot bridges. One of the islands boasts a charming gazebo, perfect for relaxation or enjoying the view. You can watch the ducks and geese that call the park home or try your luck fishing. A state fishing license is required, and boats of any kind are not allowed on the lake.

The Rolland Lewis Community Building offers 7,000 square feet of rental space, and three park shelters with water and electricity access are also available for rent. For more information on rental prices and availability, visit our Facility Rentals page or contact the Park Office.

From late May to Labor Day, enjoy a sno cone from Mary’s Sno Cones—a staple in Mt. Vernon. Mary has served delicious sno cones at Veterans Park for years. Try a Blue Eagle, Tiger’s Blood, Chocolate, and more!

Community Garden

Veteran’s Park is home to the Mt. Vernon Community Gardens. Their mission is to not only help bring fresh food to the local community but with the assistance of the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners, teach everyone about the benefits, processes, and skills involved in gardening. The gardens at Veteran’s Park serve two purposes: 16 beds are educational beds used to teach the community the ins and outs of gardening and to produce food sold to raise money to ensure the garden’s sustainability. 24 community beds are available each year for community members to plant their own fresh produce to take home!

They have a “no food waste policy” so any extra food produced in the community gardens is harvested and either sold to sustain the gardens or given to local food banks.

For more information on the community garden please contact Chris Lueking.

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park, located just off Veterans Memorial Drive on South 34th Street, is a popular recreational destination in Mt. Vernon. The park offers a variety of amenities for outdoor enjoyment. Visitors can explore well-maintained paved walking paths, perfect for leisurely strolls or energetic jogs in the fresh air. Ample parking is available, ensuring convenient access to the park’s attractions and recreational opportunities.

In addition to its green space, Lincoln Park is home to several major amenities that make it a central hub for recreation and family fun in Mt. Vernon.

Neighborhood Parks

Nestled in the heart of our community are several smaller parks. These parks have fewer amenities but are a great addition to our neighborhoods.

A.L. Dawson Park

Located on Forest Avenue in the southwest part of town, A.L. Dawson Park features a playground, two basketball courts, a picnic shelter, and bathrooms.

Country Heights Park

Located in the northwest part of Mt. Vernon just off Central Avenue, Country Heights Park has a playground and a basketball court.

Hope Park

Located where 12th Street and 14th Street meet, Hope Park is home to an outdoor chess/checkers picnic table and a sculpture.

Jamison Park

This park is located off Apricot Avenue in the southwest part of Mt. Vernon. Jamison Park offers neighborhood kids a basketball court and a playground.

Jaycee Lake Park

Located just 3.6 miles from Mt. Vernon, Jaycee Lake Park is the newest addition to our neighborhood parks system. This recreational spot offers a walking/mountain biking trail through a wooded area. Make sure to bring your water as this area does not have access to drinking water.