Phillips Park

The primary trail at Phillips Park is the Mastodon Trail, a scenic 1-mile loop that encircles Mastodon Lake. This paved path is ideal for walking, running, and biking, offering a flat and accessible surface. Beyond this, the park features various interconnected paths that lead to different attractions like the Sunken Gardens, the zoo, and picnic areas, providing options for longer strolls or exploration.

Phillips Park generally features a relatively flat terrain, making it accessible for most visitors. The park's elevation is around 219 meters (719 feet), with minimal significant changes in elevation across its main trails. While there aren't challenging climbs or technical hiking routes, the extensive grounds offer opportunities for longer walks or runs, particularly around Mastodon Lake and through the various landscaped areas.

Absolutely! The Sunken Gardens are a major visual highlight, offering beautifully landscaped floral displays, topiaries, and a multi-tiered fountain. The shores of Mastodon Lake provide tranquil views, especially at sunrise or sunset. Additionally, the park is home to the Phillips Park Zoo, which, while man-made, showcases natural animal habitats. Don't miss the David and Karen Stover Visitors Center, where you can see actual mastodon bones discovered in the park.

Yes, Phillips Park is very dog-friendly! It features a dedicated, nearly 3-acre dog park where your canine companions can play off-leash. Dogs are also generally welcome on the park's trails and in many outdoor areas, provided they are kept on a leash. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.

Phillips Park is accessible via public transport, primarily through the Pace bus system which serves Aurora. Several Pace routes have stops within a reasonable walking distance of the park's entrances. Visitors are encouraged to check the latest Pace bus schedules and routes for the most convenient options to reach the park.

Phillips Park is exceptionally family-friendly. Besides the free-admission Phillips Park Zoo, families can enjoy multiple large, state-of-the-art playgrounds, including one specifically designed for toddlers. The Phillips Park Family Aquatic Center offers various pools, slides, and a splash pad. The Mastodon Trail is stroller-friendly, and there are numerous picnic areas for family outings.

For general park use, such as walking, picnicking, or visiting the zoo and gardens, no permits are required. However, if you plan to fish in Mastodon Lake, a valid Illinois fishing license is required for individuals aged 16 and older. Specific facilities like the Phillips Park Golf Course or the Family Aquatic Center have their own fees and operational hours, which can be found on the City of Aurora's Parks and Recreation website.

While the intro covers general seasonal activities, for specific interests: Spring is ideal for viewing the Sunken Gardens in full bloom and enjoying pleasant temperatures for walking. Fall offers beautiful foliage around Mastodon Lake and comfortable weather for golf. For wildlife spotting at the zoo, early mornings in any season can be less crowded. Winter, though cold, transforms the park into a serene landscape perfect for quiet walks, ice skating on the pond, or sledding on designated hills.

Phillips Park is situated within Aurora, Illinois, which offers a variety of amenities. You'll find numerous cafes and restaurants within a short drive, particularly in downtown Aurora. For accommodation, there are several hotels and motels ranging from budget-friendly to more upscale options located throughout Aurora, many within a 10-15 minute drive of the park. Specific recommendations would depend on your preference and budget.

While the park's main Mastodon Trail is clearly marked, detailed maps showing all interconnected paths and facilities are often available at the David and Karen Stover Visitors Center. You can also typically find digital maps on the City of Aurora's Parks and Recreation website, which can help you navigate the various attractions and walking routes within the 325-acre park.

Beyond the zoo's inhabitants, Phillips Park's natural areas, particularly around Mastodon Lake, are home to various local wildlife. You might spot common birds like ducks, geese, and various songbirds. Small mammals such as squirrels, rabbits, and occasionally foxes or deer can also be seen, especially during quieter times of the day. The lake itself supports fish and other aquatic life.