MT. VERNON, Ill (WSIL) � Summer fun is right around the corner as crews are putting the final touches on Mt. Vernon’s Aquatic Zoo Water Park, set to reopen for the season on May 24.
The water park is a staple of summer entertainment in southern Illinois and will operate through August 31, offering families a safe and exciting way to cool off during the hottest months of the year.
Park officials say the Aquatic Zoo isn’t just about water slides and splash zones—it’s also a major economic and tourism driver for the city.
“It’s a big tourist attraction for us,� said the Mt. Vernon Parks Manager. “We welcomed nearly 40,000 people last year, and we’re hoping to top that this season.�
With attractions like a lazy river, water slides, and kid-friendly play areas, the Aquatic Zoo has become a seasonal hotspot for local residents and visitors from across the region. City leaders say the park helps support nearby restaurants, shops, and hotels by drawing in families from across southern Illinois and beyond.
The reopening comes just in time for Memorial Day weekend, and staff are encouraging families to check the park’s website and social media for hours, pricing, and safety guidelines.
