They say summer is fleeting, and this year was no different. Summer brought plenty of excitement here at Gurnee Park District, whether it was soaking up the sun at the Aquatic Center, enjoying live music at our Sounds of Summer series, watching fireworks at Gurnee Days, or even taking to the courts for a game of pickleball! While it may be hard to say goodbye to those long, carefree summer nights, fall is right around the corner and promises to bring plenty of enjoyment, too!
This fall, take time to get outside and visit one of our 28 parks, attend a special event, try a new program, and so much more!
THANK YOU FOR AN AMAZING SEASON!
The Hunt Club Aquatic Center is now closed for the 2024 season. Thank you to all who helped make it such a success! We hope to see everyone back in 2025!
Looking for more swimming fun year-round? We offer indoor swim lessons through Gurnee Park District’s Swim School, located at the FitNation indoor pool on Nations Drive!
Parents – spend a night out while we take care of the kids! Parents Night Out events at Gurnee Park District include an evening of fun, age-appropriate activities for children ages 1 -11* such as games, crafts, sports, and more! A dinner of cheese pizza, juice, and water will be provided.
*Children 1-3 years old will have separate activities.
Join us at Bittersweet Golf Course for “Bonfire and Brews: A Taste of Gurnee”! Unwind by the fire enjoying the live music of Matt Nanke while sampling the flavors of local food vendors and sipping on adult beverages! Continue the fun by competing with friends at Axe Throwing, bags, giant games, and more!
Drinks and food will be available for purchase from local vendors at this adult-only event!
Wag your tails while honoring our nation’s heroes! Join us at Viking Park for a paw-some, Veteran-themed FREE GO Gurnee Walkin’ & Waggin’ event! Our Veteran-themed dog walk is the perfect opportunity to show your furry friend some love while also paying tribute to those who have served our country. Leash up your pup, meet with members of Reach Rescue of Mundelein, and receive some FREE pet-friendly GO Gurnee swag (while supplies last). See you there!
Sunday, September 29 9:00-10:30am Viking Park | 4374 Old Grand Avenue
Fall officially begins Sunday, September 22 here in Gurnee, and it’s the perfect time to get outside and explore! From unique and inviting playgrounds, to adventures out on one of our 14 trails, our 28 parks provide a quick escape to nature for any age! And the best part? Most of our parks are within walking distance of many Gurnee Park District residents! Get outside today!
Mark your calendars for added fall fun next month!
HALLOWEEN FALL FEST – 10/12
Gather the family and get ready to celebrate the beauty of fall! The Gurnee Park District, in partnership with the Village of Gurnee, is set to host its annual “ Halloween Family Fall Festival” at Hunt Club Park Community Center on Saturday, October 12 (1:00-4:00pm)!
From fall favorites such as hayrides, carnival games, crafts, DJ, and entertainment, along with Halloween-themed activities like our infamous “Trick or Treat Path,” “Mad Science Slime Lab,” “glow-in-the-dark ghost busting”, and pumpkin bounce house, participants of all ages will find FUN around every corner!
*Children must be accompanied by an adult 16 years or older; adults are free.
This event is proudly sponsored by our friends at:
Looking for a FUN and REWARDING job? We’re hiring! Available positions include:
NEW! Trades & Construction Supervisor (FT) NEW! Cultural Arts Supervisor (FT) Customer Service & Rental Coordinator (FT) Grounds Maintenance II (FT) Facility Maintenance I (PT) & II (FT) Member Services Supervisor – Hunt Club (FT) Preschool Teacher (PT) and MORE!
Stay up-to-date with the latest park happenings! From reminders to recaps, program news, and more, we’re always sharing! Stay in the know and follow us today!
That’s all for now! Have a great month. We look forward to seeing you out and about at Gurnee Park District!
Growing Tree Preschool
Tips for First Day Success
There is a hustle and bustle going on in the halls of Gurnee Park District’s Growing Tree Preschool wings these days! Our staff are eagerly prepping their classrooms and daily schedules as they prepare to meet their new students!
Classes begin the week of August 26th and we are all excited here at Gurnee Park District to welcome a new school year and new friends! With that said, here are a few reminders as well as some tips and tricks to deal with those first day emotions that may arise.
Children attending Growing Tree Preschool should bring or wear:
A backpack with a full change of clothing and a jacket or sweatshirt
A reusable water bottle half filled with water (don’t forget to label!)
Lunch and snacks (for full-day preschool students only)
Comfortable clothing that is easy to manage in the bathroom and that can withstand the occasional artistic messiness
Gym shoes rather than sandals, flip flops or Crocs, which are dangerous on playground equipment and woodchip surfaces
The first days of preschool are an exciting time for parents and children, but they can also bring about some mixed emotions. Some tips and tricks to help your child ease into the start of the school year are:
Read books together about going to school and the emotions that may come with it (view reading suggestions below)
Establish a healthy bedtime routine so your child is well-rested each school day
Provide a healthy breakfast before the school day begins (Pro-tip: let your child pick out a special breakfast option at the store prior to the first day of school!)
Separation anxiety? Learn how to combat those first day and/or first week jitters here!
Empty your child’s backpack and home/school folder together
Ask your child how they made the art project
Compliment your child’s effort to write their name and practice at home
Have your child sing a new song that they learned at school
Tell your child how proud you are of them and what they have accomplished
As parents, we also go through a mixture of emotions. We are excited that our children are learning new things and meeting new friends, but there is also a yearning for them to stay little and by our sides. Some reminders to help ease yourself through this transition are:
Know that your child’s ability to be independent in a classroom setting enhances the parent/child bond.
You will enjoy hearing about the exciting new things your child will learn and fun new experiences.
Preschool is an opportunity for parents to meet other parents and form lasting friendships.
Finally, set up a coffee date, run an errand, enjoy a quiet walk in thepark, or take a workout class. Use this time to focus on YOU, because when you are at ease, so are they.
Have a former preschool student? What tips and tricks would YOU suggest to make the first day a success?
From all of us here at Gurnee Park District, thank you for choosing Growing Tree Preschool! We look forward to meeting you next week!
SEE WHATS NEW
Gurnee Park District Newsletter – August 2024
With summer reaching its peak, and the school year is just around the corner, we hope you’re not quite ready to say goodbye to summer! Here in Gurnee, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you busy and celebrate the season. See below several ways to stay active and continue enjoying those summer vibes.
HUNT CLUB PARK AQUATIC CENTER
The Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center is still open. Get your last summer swims in! To see what we have planned visit our Aquatic Center event calendar here! Visit for the day!
*Don’t forget to check Rainout Line for all weather-related updates!
WEEKEND ONLY HOURS BEGIN:
CLOSED Monday – Friday, Starting Monday, August 12th
OPEN Saturday – Sunday, Starting Saturday, August 17th (11am – 7pm)
*11am – 12pm passholder entry only
*12 pm – 7pm open to public
Enjoy the last days of summer at the pool! Our Passholder Appreciation Cookout will be hosted on Saturday, August 17th (12 – 8:00pm) More info HERE
SWIM SCHOOL LESSONS
Looking to keep swimming? Swim School is held at Fit Nation’s indoor pool. From the youngest swimmers (6 months) or our oldest (18+ adults), swimming is a lifelong skill. You are never too young or old to learn.
A summer favorite, Gurnee Days, is quickly approaching. Enjoy family activities and entertainment for all ages. Join us for your favorite Gurnee Days traditions, such as delicious food, kid’s zone*, vendor booths, parade, one of the best fireworks shows in Lake County, and so much MORE!
*Kid’s Zone includes: Euro Bungee*, Inflatable slide*, bumper cars*, bounce house, carnival games*, glitter tattoos, WNPL Bookmobile, and crafts *with $10 wristband (available for pre-sale or day of) **wristbands can be purchased online or at the Hunt Club Park Community Center front desk during regular business hours beginning Monday, August 5 – Saturday, August 10 at 8:00am. Pre-purchased wristbands can be picked up at the Hunt Club Park Community Center on Friday, August 9.
Join us for Sounds of Summer, our FREE summer concert series. The last two Sounds of Summer concerts of the season are this month! See below for our upcoming August concerts:
August 15: Sounds of Summer Evening Concert – “China Grove Doobie Brothers Tribute ”At Viking Park Band Shell (7:00 – 8:30pm)
August 20: Sounds of Summer Children’s Series: “Todd Downing Music” At Viking Park Band Shell (10:30 – 11:15am) * We’re proud to partner with our friends at Forest Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry. Forest Orthodontics & Pediatrics’ SMILE Ice Cream Truck will be onsite at our Children’s Concert! The team will be serving up FREE, sweet treats to guests (while supplies last)!
BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL C.A.R.E.
Back to school season is right around the corner. Registration for C.A.R.E. (2024-2025 school year) is open. We offer before and after school options for students in Districts 50 & 56, as well as after school care for our Growing Tree Preschool. Make sure to register soon, as there are limited spots available.
Looking for a fun and rewarding job? Join our Before and After School CARE Team! We’re on the lookout for awesome counselors aged 16 and up. If you love working with kids and want a job that’s both fun and rewarding, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and be part of our great team!
Please note that our facilities will be operating under the following holiday hours:
9/2 – Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center: OPEN 11:00am – 7:00pm
9/2 – Hunt Club Park Community Center: CLOSED
9/2 – FitNation on Nations Drive: OPEN 7:00am – 12:00pm
9/2 – Viking Park Community Center: CLOSED
UPCOMING EVENTS
MONTHLY MIXER 9/10 – “Fall in Line”
Get out your cowboy boots and hat and let’s celebrate the start of Fall with a good ole’ country Line Dance. Lunch includes pulled chicken sandwich, coleslaw, chips, & dessert. Following lunch, we will learn some line dancing steps from Susan Moore, our favorite line dancing instructor.
* Registration Deadline 9/5. Doors open at 11:00am. Lunch service begins at 11:30am
BONFIRES & BREWS 9/21 – A Taste of Gurnee
Join Gurnee Park District at Bittersweet Golf Course for “Bonfires and Brews: A Taste of Gurnee”! Unwind by the fire while enjoying live music, tasting your favorite adult beverage, savoring the flavors of local food vendors, and chatting with friends! Or compete with friends at Axe Throwing, Giant Jenga, and Giant Connect 4. Drinks and food will be available for purchase from local Gurnee brewers and food vendors at this adult-only event!
Managed by Aquatic Facility Manager, Diane DeLorenzo and Aquatics Coordinator, Amanda Kochenash, as well as their team of seasoned Pool Managers, each summer, these unsung heroes ensure that every jump, dive, and swim is conducted with the utmost safety in mind, and they do so with a profound sense of responsibility.
These guards, though they may look young, are some of the most experienced and well-trained first responders in our community. Daily, they demonstrate physical and mental readiness through a variety of skills and abilities, such as discipline, endurance, and vigilance. When we say nothing gets past them, we mean nothing. Their rigorous training prepares them for any aquatic emergency that may arise.
Certified through the world leader in Aquatic Safety, Jeff Ellis and Associates International Lifeguard Training Program, all lifeguards at Gurnee Park District have mastered a range of emergency response skills from water rescues to health care provider level CPR, first aid, AED, and emergency oxygen administration. In addition, their strength and endurance are tested through weekly training and in-pool drills, which involve swimming, diving, and treading water under demanding conditions.
On active duty, lifeguards are in constant motion, vigilantly rotating through multiple zones to monitor and respond to any risks. The “10/20” rule, developed by Ellis & Associates, is strictly adhered to, which mandates a standard where lifeguards must be able to spot and reach a guest in distress within seconds.
Gurnee Park District lifeguards share a commitment to safety and their passion and willingness to help others at all costs is unmatched. Please take a moment the next time you visit the Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center to thank these unsung heroes – your Guardians of the Water.
Gurnee Park District
2024 Seasonal Employee of the Year
This year, we are proud to present the 2024 “Seasonal Employee of the Year” Award to Jourdan Baldwin-Sylvester.
Jourdan began working for Gurnee Park District as a Day Camp Counselor in 2015. Since then, she has returned nearly every summer and is currently positioned as the Sports Camp Site Director.
As a day camp counselor, Jordan brought fun to her campers and the Gurnee Park District Summer Camp program, always with a smile on her face and a positive attitude no matter the situation. Working mainly with the Step Into Sports and Sports Campers, Jourdan showed great awareness in understanding the importance of treating all campers with differing athletic abilities equally. Not only did she prove to be a great counselor, but as years passed, she showed great leadership and poise to take on the role of Site Director.
For many years, Jordan worked as the Site Director for Step into Sports Camp. There, she created an atmosphere where staff felt respected and children felt heard. Her ability to talk with parents and campers when challenging situations arise, adapt to campers’ and team member’s individual needs, and teach the importance of sportsmanship truly reflects the great leader she is. As a high school teacher in Kenosha, Jourdan also brings her classroom experience to our summer camps. She is highly organized, motivated, and truly embodies Gurnee Park District’s SOFIE values.
This summer, before the start of camp, Jourdan was asked to make the switch from Step Into Sports Camp to work as the Sports Camp Site Director. While this would be a new role for her, Jourdan did not hesitate, saying, “Wherever you need me is where I will go.” Her adaptability, positive mindset, and leadership qualities, along with many other reasons, are why Jourdan has been awarded the Seasonal Employee of the Year Award.
Please take a moment to congratulate Jourdan on this well-deserved achievement!
Meet The Interns
National Intern Day 2024
Today is National Intern Day and we’re excited to introduce you to the interns currently working with us this summer at the Gurnee Park District. They’re here to learn and grow while supporting various departments and projects that benefit our community. The interns are gaining valuable experience and bringing fresh perspectives to our organization. Take a moment to meet them and learn about their journey with us!
Tommy O’Donnell
Maddie Wichlin
Amber Langosch
Meet Tommy, one of our Recreation Interns! Tommy graduated from University of Illinois at Chicago with a Bachelor’s in Kinesiology. He will be starting his first year of graduate school at Eastern Illinois University, where he will be majoring in Sports Administration and working as a Graduate Assistant in their Department of Campus Recreation. “From this experience, I have learned valuable transferable skills which I can utilize during my Graduate Assistantship and professional jobs after completing school.”
Meet Maddie, our Marketing Intern! Maddie will be entering her junior year at the University of Illinois where she is currently pursuing a degree in Advertising. Having previously worked at her local Park District, Maddie was excited at the chance to join the team. After college Maddie plans to work in digital marketing or marketing research. “I’ve already learned so much from this amazing department and I’m excited to contribute new ideas for our team!”
Meet Amber, one of our Recreation Interns! Amber will be an incoming senior at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign majoring in Kinesiology. After college, Amber plans to pursue her MBA with the future plans of working in sports marketing, “I’m excited to be a recreation intern as it was a perfect opportunity for me to gain direct experience and learn from experts in the field. I’m excited to continue contributing in creating enjoyable recreational experiences for our community members”.
Gurnee Park District
Welcome NEW Director of Recreation, Melissa Marsh
Gurnee, Illinois – July 22, 2024. Gurnee Park District is excited to announce and welcome its new Director of Recreation, Melissa Marsh, CPRP.
Melissa Marsh joins Gurnee Park District with a wealth of experience in the field of parks and recreation. Most recently, Marsh served as Division Director of Recreation and Museum Services at Glenview Park District, where she oversaw and supported the district’s comprehensive recreation and aquatics department, as well as the district’s museums: The Grove, Historic Wagner Farm, Kent Fuller Air Station Prairie, and Schram Memorial Chapel. Prior to working in Glenview, Marsh was the Director of Parks and Recreation with the Village of Lincolnwood, where she managed parks and facilities, recreation programs, special events, community partnerships, and capital improvement projects. Her background also includes serving National Gold Medal Award-winning and Distinguished Agency Accredited communities such as the Park District of Oak Park, Fox Valley Park District, and Homewood-Flossmoor Park District.
Marsh holds a master’s degree in public administration from Governors State University and a bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Sport and Tourism from the University of Illinois. She is a graduate of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Revenue Development and Management School and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) Leadership Academy. She is also a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP).
Throughout her time working in the field, Marsh has admired the many ways in which the Gurnee Park District builds community and creates a fun environment where people of all ages can grow. “I’m thrilled to be joining the Gurnee Park District and am excited to work with the team to continue providing innovative programs and services in support of the district’s mission,” shared Marsh. “I am passionate about parks and recreation, both as a professional and in my personal life.” Outside of the office, Marsh enjoys being outdoors exploring parks and trails.
Gurnee Park District looks forward to having Marsh join the team. “We are pleased to welcome Melissa on board,” shared Executive Director, Susie Kuruvilla. “Her contributions will play an integral role in our continued growth and ability to provide exceptional services to our community.”
Happy Retirement
Cheers to 24 Years, Sue McDougle!
It is with bittersweet emotions that we announce the retirement of Sue McDougle, our Interim Director of Recreation. Over her 24 years of service, Sue has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on not only Gurnee Park District, but the Gurnee community as a whole. Many of you may have had the pleasure of meeting Sue over the years, perhaps when your children attended our Growing Tree Preschool classes, through our various youth and adult programs, out and about at community events, or simply by visiting our facilities. No matter how you met Sue, we’re certain her warmth, care, and unwavering commitment to our community left a lasting impression.
Over these past two-plus decades, Sue has been a part of many notable accomplishments within our District, including the NRPA Gold Medal achievement of 2010, the construction and opening of the Hunt Club Park Community Center, many successful Gurnee Days festivals, as well as the growth of our youth programs, including Before & After School CARE, Growing Tree Preschool, and summer camps. In addition to Gurnee Park District accomplishments, Sue also created an impact in the field of Parks and Recreation having served on multiple Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) committees, graduating from Park District Risk Management Agency’s (PDRMA) Risk Management Institute, serving as a Lake County Early Learning Coalition member (10 years), and as a member on the Early Education and Teaching Advisory Board (2 years).
Beyond these impressive accomplishments, what perhaps stands most memorable is Sue’s ability to foster genuine connections with families in the Gurnee community as well as the mentorship of many talented and successful educators and staff members.
As Sue turns this page, we reflect not just on her milestones and achievements, but the countless moments of joy, guidance, and support she has bestowed upon us all. In her 24 years, we thank Sue for truly embodying everything that is Gurnee Park District: a safe, warm, and welcoming space for all.
Cheers to you, Sue, for everything. We wish you all the best in your retirement!
See what's new!
Gurnee Park District Newsletter - July 2024
Summer is officially here, and we’re off to a great start! As we begin July, we’re excited for continued sunny days and all the fun that summer brings. Make sure to get outside and make the most of this fleeting, yet memorable season!
See below for our July happenings here at Gurnee Park District!
MAKE A SPLASH AT THE AQUATIC CENTER!
The Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center is NOW open! Enjoy fun all summer long!
*Don’t forget to check Rainout Line for all weather-related updates!
MONTHLY MIXER – 7/12
NEW summer location: Gurnee Community Church | 4555 Old Grand Avenue, Gurnee, IL. 60031
Wear your red, white & blue to our “America the Beautiful” celebration. The afternoon begins with a lunch of ham sandwiches on croissant rolls with Swiss cheese, lettuce & tomato, pasta salad, and chips and dessert. Then sit back as we listen to the melodies of America from NY to LA and every stop in between plus patriotic favorites sung by “Ludy & his Lady”.
Registration deadline: 7/8
Friday, July 12 – 11:30am-1:00pm *Doors open: 11:00am/lunch service begins at 11:30am
Grab your fishing poles – we’re teaming up with our favorite local heroes from the Gurnee Police Department for our FREE Cops & Bobbers Fishing Event!
Officers and Gurnee Park District staff will be onsite throughout the event to help reel in the biggest catch, create fun crafts, announce raffles, and MORE!
Please note: while we will provide a limited number of fishing poles and bait on a first-come, first-served basis, we encourage you to bring your favorite rod to ensure everyone gets a chance to participate in the fun.
This event is designed with young anglers in mind, welcoming children ages 5 -15 years old.
Wednesday, July 31 5:30 – 7:30pm *check-in from 5:00-5:30pm Hunt Club Park (at the pond)
*A waiver must be signed for all participants by a parent/guardian prior to fishing.
July 23: Sounds of Summer Children’s Series: “Miss Jamie and the Farm Hands” at Viking Park (10:30-11:15am) * We’re proud to partner with our friends at Forest Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry. Forest Orthodontics & Pediatrics’ SMILE Ice Cream Truck will be onsite! The team will be serving up FREE, sweet treats to guests (while supplies last)!
July 25: Sounds of Summer Evening Concert – “Chicago Tribute Band” at Viking Park (7:00-8:30pm) *thank you to our sponsor, Old National Bank, for making this event possible!
Special thank you to the Gurnee Exchange Club, who will be onsite for our evening concerts selling concessions!
FALL REGISTRATION – 7/16
It may only be July, but we are already gearing up for FALL FUN!
Mark your calendars – fall registration for fall events, programs, and more opens Tuesday, July 16 at 7:00am! View our Fall Program & Events Guide online beginning Monday, July 8th!
JULY 4th HOURS
Happy July 4th to all! We hope you enjoy this day of independence and joy with family and friends!
Please note that our facilities will be operating under the following holiday hours:
7/4 – Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center: OPEN 11:00am – 7:00pm
7/4 – Hunt Club Park Community Center: CLOSED
7/4 – FitNation on Nations Drive: OPEN 7:00am – 12:00pm
7/4 & 7/5 Viking Park Community Center: CLOSED
Looking to get outside? Our parks will be open from dawn to dusk!
Gurnee Days is right around the corner and sure to be the highlight of the summer! Gear up for a weekend of your favorite time-honored family traditions, including kid’s activities, local food and drinks, LIVE music, the Gurnee Days parade, one of the BEST fireworks shows in Lake County, and much more!
For a complete list of events and schedules, please visit www.gurneedays.com _____________________________________________________________________________________
Looking for a FUN and REWARDING job? We’re hiring! Available positions include:
Facility Maintenance I & II (FT & PT) Fitness Attendant (PT) Group Exercise Instructor (PT) Member Services Staff (PT) Personal Trainer (PT) Preschool Teacher (PT) And MORE!
Have a great month! We look forward to seeing you out and about at Gurnee Park District!
Executive Director's Blog
Summer FUN at Gurnee Park District
Summer is officially here, bringing with it much excitement! From creating memories at summer camp, to splashing the days away at the Aquatic Center, as well as a host of inviting events and other summer plans, I am excited to share with you what you and your family can expect this season.
Every summer, we look forward to the energy and excitement that our summer camps bring. Whether it be meeting new friends, learning new skills, or participating in unique activities such as field trips, special events, and swim days at the Aquatic Center, our summer camps provide children the perfect space for creating lifelong memories and enjoying all that summer has to offer. While Session 1 is already underway, we still have spaces for session 2 & 3! Make sure to sign your camper up for summer fun today!
And speaking of summer experiences, don’t forget to purchase your Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center season pass! With exclusive benefits like discounted rates for you and your guests, special perks at the Cattail Café, appreciation days, extended hours, and more, your summer will be filled with endless fun and enjoyment!
But the summer fun doesn’t stop there. This year, we are thrilled to announce a series of exciting events in partnership with our community partners. Enjoy weekly Neighborhood Nights at the park joined by our friends from Warren Newport Public Library, or, as summer continues, dance to live music in the park during our Sounds of Summer concert series where members of the Exchange Club of Gurnee will proudly serve their delicious concessions. In July, grab your fishing poles and join us at Hunt Club Park for “Cops and Bobbers,” a free fishing event co-hosted by the Gurnee Police Department! To view all of our summer events, visit our event calendar!
Closing out the summer, we will once again celebrate the Gurnee community with our annual Gurnee Days festival. Gurnee Days will take place on Saturday, August 10 and Sunday, August 11 and will include some of your favorite time-honored traditions. We are fortunate to co-host this community festival with our neighboring partners, the Village of Gurnee, Village of Gurnee Chamber of Commerce, and the Exchange Club of Gurnee. To learn more about our events lineup, please visit our new Gurnee Days website!
In addition to a variety of events and programs, we also offer plenty of ways to stay active all summer long. Reconnect with nature by visiting one of our 28 parks, many of which feature miles of trails great for walking, biking, and running. Or, plan to meet new friends with our GO Gurnee Walking Club, which hosts weekly walks in Gurnee and throughout Lake County. If you would rather stay indoors, challenge yourself with a new workout plan at FitNation! Whatever your interests may be, make sure to take time to enjoy this beautiful time of year!
I look forward to getting outside and seeing you all at our Gurnee Park District events, facilities, and parks! Let’s make this summer one to remember together!
Susie Kuruvilla, CPA, CPRP Executive Director
Facility Hours
Click on a facility for more information about special & holiday hours for that particular facility
900 N Hunt Club Rd
This year, we are proud to present the 2024 “Seasonal Employee of the Year” Award to Jourdan Baldwin-Sylvester.
Melissa Marsh joins Gurnee Park District with a wealth of experience in the field of parks and recreation. Most recently, Marsh served as Division Director of Recreation and Museum Services at Glenview Park District, where she oversaw and supported the district’s comprehensive recreation and aquatics department, as well as the district’s museums: The Grove, Historic Wagner Farm, Kent Fuller Air Station Prairie, and Schram Memorial Chapel. Prior to working in Glenview, Marsh was the Director of Parks and Recreation with the Village of Lincolnwood, where she managed parks and facilities, recreation programs, special events, community partnerships, and capital improvement projects. Her background also includes serving National Gold Medal Award-winning and Distinguished Agency Accredited communities such as the Park District of Oak Park, Fox Valley Park District, and Homewood-Flossmoor Park District. 
It is with bittersweet emotions that we announce the retirement of Sue McDougle, our Interim Director of Recreation. Over her 24 years of service, Sue has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on not only Gurnee Park District, but the Gurnee community as a whole. Many of you may have had the pleasure of meeting Sue over the years, perhaps when your children attended our Growing Tree Preschool classes, through our various youth and adult programs, out and about at community events, or simply by visiting our facilities. No matter how you met Sue, we’re certain her warmth, care, and unwavering commitment to our community left a lasting impression.