Prairie Lakes Community Center: Fitness, Swimming & Event Spaces
Prairie Lakes Community Center at 515 E. Thacker Street is a Des Plaines Park District recreation destination with a newly renovated fitness area, indoor aquatics, basketball, racquetball, walking track, theater and reservable event rooms. This guide helps you check the right hours, find programs, compare published rental fees and prepare for your visit.
Des Plaines, Illinois 60016
Cook County
For building hours, racquetball, gym, fitness and general facility questions.
For room reservations, deposits and current rental quotations.
Prairie Lakes Community Center Hours
The Des Plaines Park District publishes the following regular hours for the community center, fitness facilities, racquetball court, gymnasium, theater and meeting areas.
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday–Friday | 5:30 AM | 10 PM |
| Saturday | 7 AM | 6 PM |
| Sunday | 7 AM | 6 PM |
Holiday Closures
The Park District lists full closure on New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday and Christmas Day. It identifies adjusted hours for Memorial Day, July 4, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
Official Prairie Lakes opening hours and facility information
Prairie Lakes Fitness Center: What Changed in 2026?
Prairie Lakes Fitness reopened after a major renovation in 2026. The updated facility combines cardio and strength exercise in a larger workout area, with redesigned studios and modernized support spaces.
Strength & Cardio
An expanded fitness area accommodates exercise machines, weight-training equipment and individual workouts.
Fitness Studio
A modernized exercise studio supports scheduled classes and other guided fitness activities.
Open Cycle Studio
The updated cycle studio is designed for organized and individual indoor cycling activities.
Performance Studio
A new performance studio provides additional space for selected strength and training activities.
Renovated Locker Rooms
Locker rooms were included in the modernization project. Ask about lockers and personal-item storage rules.
Walking Track
The indoor track offers an alternative to outdoor walking during colder Illinois weather. Eligibility and session rules may apply.
Fitness Admission and Membership
The Park District offers several membership categories across its recreation amenities, including individual, senior/student, military, couple and family options. It also offers combinations involving fitness, the indoor track, gym/courts and the aquatic center.
How to Join Prairie Lakes Fitness
- Choose your activities. Decide whether you primarily need strength training, group fitness, indoor walking, racquetball or swimming.
- Compare pass categories. Ask about Fitness Pass, Prairie Pass, gym and court access, aquatic memberships and combination plans.
- Confirm residency. Bring proof of Des Plaines Park District residency if claiming resident pricing.
- Check age rules. Ask about youth access, required supervision and fitness-equipment restrictions.
- Review payment options. The district’s membership form identifies annual, monthly and installment arrangements for eligible plans.
- Complete the enrollment process. Register through the authorized Park District office and keep proof of membership.
Prairie Lakes Aquatic Center: Lap Pool, Wellness Pool & Splash Pad
The adjacent Prairie Lakes Aquatic Center is part of the same recreation complex but has its own contact number, swimming programs and timetable.
Eight-Lane Competition Pool
The aquatic facility includes an eight-lane, 25-yard pool used for swim instruction, lap swimming, team activities and scheduled public swim.
Wellness Pool
A warm-water wellness pool includes hydrotherapy features and serves designated aquatic exercise and low-impact movement programs.
Indoor Splash Pad
The aquatic complex has interactive spray features and a designated children’s play area.
Swim School & Aqua Fitness
The Park District offers swim-school programs and scheduled aqua exercise. Specific lessons and admission rules vary by season.
Swimming Hours vs. Community Center Hours
Aquatic schedules distinguish between lap lanes, swim lessons, wellness pool, splash pad, public swim, aqua exercise and special events. A published example from spring 2025 showed the aquatic facility opening at 5:30 AM on weekdays and 7–8 AM on weekends, with separate pool-area closures during instruction.
How to Plan a Pool Visit
- Choose the aquatic activity. Select lap swimming, lessons, public swim, water exercise, wellness pool use or family splash pad time.
- Contact the aquatic front desk. Call (847) 390-4949.
- Ask for the current schedule. Confirm opening times for the particular water area, not just the building.
- Check the required pass. Ask whether your fitness membership includes aquatic access or whether an aquatic pass is separate.
- Confirm child and safety rules. Review swimwear, supervision, lifejacket and locker room requirements.
- Check closures or events. Ask whether swim lessons, maintenance or private parties affect your preferred time.
Gym, Racquetball, Theater & Recreation Programs
Prairie Lakes hosts more than fitness and swimming. The Park District uses the complex for recreational sports, children’s classes, dance, camps, theater and community events.
Gymnasium
The gym accommodates scheduled recreational sports, leagues, classes and private athletic rentals. Open-court access depends on the current timetable.
Racquetball
Prairie Lakes includes racquetball facilities. Call the front desk about reservation requirements, court rules and pass eligibility.
Prairie Lakes Theater
A theater of approximately 300 seats hosts stage performances, shows and community arts events. Ticketing and performance times vary by production.
Day Camps
Camp Discovery and other seasonal programs serve children under structured supervision. Registration dates, pickup policies and schedules change annually.
Dance & Creative Classes
Park District programming includes dance and other arts or recreation instruction for different ages.
Family Activities
The complex hosts special events and family programs. Check event listings for registration, admission and age requirements.
How to Find a Class or Program
- Open the official program guide. Visit the Des Plaines Park District website and find the latest seasonal catalog.
- Choose the activity. Search for aquatics, fitness, sports, dance, theater, camps or family programs.
- Check the correct location. The district operates multiple facilities; confirm that your program is at Prairie Lakes.
- Read the schedule. Check dates, participant age, class duration and eligibility.
- Compare resident and nonresident prices. Some activities have separate district-resident rates.
- Register officially. Use the Park District’s registration system and save confirmation.
Seasonal Events
A community Trunk or Treat event is scheduled at Prairie Lakes Community Center on October 24, 2026, with registration required for participating children and adults. Confirm offered time slots before attending.
Special events do not necessarily repeat each year on the same date.
Prairie Lakes Community Center Room Rentals & Prices
Prairie Lakes offers several meeting and event rooms, three adjoining Mountain View rooms, kitchen facilities, a multipurpose room and gymnasium rentals. The Des Plaines Park District publishes room capacities, hourly rates and security deposits.
Room Rental Rates from the Published 2025 Schedule
| Space | Capacity | Resident | Nonresident |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mountain View 1 | 35 | $50.50/hr | $106.05/hr |
| Mountain View 2 | 50 | $67/hr | $138.55/hr |
| Mountain View 3 | 35 | $50.50/hr | $106.05/hr |
| Mountain View 1 + 2 | 85 | $102/hr | $210/hr |
| Mountain View 1 + 2 + 3 | 120 | $139.50/hr | $290.85/hr |
| Meeting Room 1 or 2 | 35 | $50.50/hr | $106.05/hr |
| Multipurpose Room | 70 | $102/hr | $210/hr |
Source: Des Plaines Park District’s April 2025 facility rental rate document. Amounts are not guaranteed 2026 quotations.
Kitchen Rental Fees
| Kitchen | Resident | Nonresident |
|---|---|---|
| Mountain View Kitchen | $50.50 | $116.55 |
| Multipurpose Room Kitchen | $50.50 | $116.55 |
The Park District’s rental information describes an industrial kitchen with a sink, microwave, oven and counters. Cooking, eating and serving utensils are not provided.
Gymnasium Rental Prices
| Gym Space | 2025 Resident Rate | 2025 Nonresident Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Full gym | $203/hr | $320.25/hr |
| Half gym | $102/hr | $159.60/hr |
| Half court, one hoop | $50.50/hr | $80.85/hr |
Deposits, Setup & Additional Hours
The 2025 rental document lists a $75 resident deposit and a $150 nonresident deposit for Prairie Lakes rooms, with setup and cleanup charges depending on the number of rooms.
| Setup & Cleanup | Resident | Nonresident |
|---|---|---|
| One room | $40.20 | $40.95 |
| Two rooms | $64 | $65.10 |
| Three rooms | $76.25 | $77.70 |
The 2025 schedule also lists an additional charge of approximately $18.55–$18.90 per hour for rentals outside normal business hours. The current facility page rounds this to $19 per hour.
Sample Rental Budgets
The following examples use the published 2025 resident rates and include the specified setup charge and deposit, but not special add-ons or possible staffing costs.
| Example | Calculation | Upfront Total |
|---|---|---|
| Mountain View 1, 3 hours | $151.50 rent + $40.20 setup + $75 deposit | $266.70 |
| Mountain View 1 + 2, 3 hours | $306 rent + $64 setup + $75 deposit | $445 |
| All 3 Mountain View rooms, 4 hours | $558 rent + $76.25 setup + $75 deposit | $709.25 |
Illustrative calculations only. Deposit refund conditions and final charges are governed by the current rental agreement.
How to Book a Meeting Room, Birthday Party or Gym
Reservations should be arranged directly with the Park District. A room appearing in the published list does not guarantee availability for your chosen event date.
- Choose the activity. Decide whether you need a birthday party, baby shower, meeting, training session, sports rental or theater use.
- Estimate guests. Compare your expected attendance with the room capacity table above.
- Select the space. Decide between a Mountain View room, multipurpose room, meeting room, gym or theater.
- Prepare preferred dates. Include arrival, setup, event time and cleanup when estimating your reservation period.
- Contact the rental office. Call (847) 391-5700 for current availability and pricing.
- Ask about required fees. Confirm the updated resident/nonresident rental price, deposit, setup charge and possible after-hours fee.
- Read the rental policy. Check food, equipment, decorations, parking, cancellations, alcohol restrictions and required cleanup.
- Complete the official application. Follow the form and payment process given by staff.
- Keep written confirmation. Verify your room, date, rental hours, approved event and total paid.
Important Rental Policies
- Alcohol is prohibited at Prairie Lakes and other Park District facilities except where the district specifically permits it at its Golf Center.
- Open flames, including candles and incense, are prohibited inside Park District buildings.
- Smoking is not permitted in or within 15 feet of the facility, under the published rental rules.
- Park District staff perform standard setup and takedown of tables and chairs.
- Renters should not move tables and chairs without authorization.
- Six-foot tables and folding chairs are among the listed room furnishings; table coverings are not included.
- Older rental documents describe a seven-day advance cancellation requirement for a full refund. Confirm current terms before paying.
Parking for Private Events
The published facility rental information lists a parking lot capacity of approximately 200 vehicles, shared with regular Park District programs and other events. Do not interpret the full lot as being reserved exclusively for your party.
Official facility rentals directory and reservation information
Prairie Lakes Theater: Performances & Facility Rentals
Prairie Lakes Theater is part of the Community Center complex and is used for stage performances, productions and community arts programming.
Attending a Performance
Check the official theater calendar or program listings for production dates, ticket prices, reserved seating and doors-open times. Community Center operating hours do not determine performance start times.
Renting the Theater
Call (847) 391-5711 to inquire about theater availability, seating configuration, technical staffing, setup and the rental agreement.
The theater’s approximately 300-seat capacity makes it distinct from the smaller community rooms. Technical requirements for a performance may involve additional staff and equipment.
Parking, Accessibility & First-Time Visitor Tips
Parking
On-site parking is available, but spaces are shared by fitness users, aquatic visitors, theater audiences and event renters.
Plan extra arrival time during performances or large events.
Accessibility
Ask staff about accessible entrances, changing facilities, aquatic accommodations and theater seating suitable for your needs.
Family Visits
Confirm splash pad opening hours, swim-school availability, supervision policies and where families should check in.
Local Travel
The facility is in Des Plaines, northwest of Chicago, and serves visitors from surrounding Cook County communities.
Verify nonresident fees if you live outside the Park District boundaries.
Prairie Lakes Community Center Map & Directions
Destination: 515 E. Thacker Street, Des Plaines, IL 60016.
The Community Center and Aquatic Center share the same street address but have different front-desk telephone numbers.
Choose the Right Service Before Visiting
| Your Goal | What to Check | Best Next Step |
|---|---|---|
| Fitness workout | Renovated fitness area and membership eligibility | Call community center front desk |
| Indoor walking | Track access and pass requirements | Ask about indoor track membership |
| Swimming | Lap pool and wellness pool schedules | Call aquatic center |
| Children’s splash pad | Current splash hours and supervision rules | Verify aquatics schedule |
| Basketball or court sport | Open gym or court reservation | Ask community center staff |
| Summer camp | Age, dates, fees and enrollment | Check seasonal program guide |
| Theater performance | Event date, time and ticket details | Check performance listing |
| Small gathering | Mountain View or meeting room capacity | Request room quote |
| Large private event | 120-person combined Mountain View rooms | Contact rental office |
| Gym rental | Full, half or half-court charges | Verify current rental price |
Before You Go: Visitor Checklist
- Confirm current opening hours and holiday exceptions.
- Check fitness membership and pass prices before purchasing.
- Verify the specific swimming area and today’s schedule.
- Ask about current court and racquetball availability.
- Check age eligibility for children and teenagers.
- Use the official program catalog for class dates and fees.
- For rentals, confirm current 2026 prices and setup charges.
- Remember that alcohol and open flames are prohibited.
- Allow extra parking time for busy evenings and theater events.
- Use 515 E. Thacker Street for navigation.
Related Community Center Guides
If you’re comparing indoor aquatic facilities and fitness memberships, our Gladstone Community Center guide explains a different municipality’s pool schedules, passes and gym facilities. Remember that its Missouri membership rules do not apply in Des Plaines.
Prairie Lakes Community Center FAQs
1. Where is Prairie Lakes Community Center located?
Prairie Lakes Community Center is located at 515 E. Thacker Street, Des Plaines, IL 60016, in Cook County, Illinois.
2. What are Prairie Lakes Community Center hours?
The Des Plaines Park District lists regular hours of Monday through Friday, 5:30 AM–10 PM, and Saturday and Sunday, 7 AM–6 PM. Holiday and individual activity hours may differ.
3. What is Prairie Lakes Community Center’s phone number?
The Community Center and Fitness Center phone number is (847) 391-5711. Prairie Lakes Aquatic Center can be reached at (847) 390-4949.
4. Does Prairie Lakes Community Center have a swimming pool?
Yes. The attached Prairie Lakes Aquatic Center includes an eight-lane, 25-yard lap pool, a warm-water wellness pool and an indoor splash pad. Swimming areas operate on separate schedules.
5. Is Prairie Lakes Fitness Center open?
Yes. The Park District announced the reopening of its renovated Prairie Lakes Fitness area in 2026, with an expanded strength/cardio floor, new studios and renovated locker rooms.
6. Does Prairie Lakes Community Center have basketball and racquetball?
Yes. The facility includes a gymnasium and racquetball courts, with access depending on membership or admission rules, scheduled activities and reservations.
7. Can I rent a meeting room at Prairie Lakes?
Yes. Prairie Lakes has Mountain View rooms, meeting rooms, a multipurpose room and kitchen facilities. Published room capacities range from 35 to 120 guests depending on the space combination.
8. How much does a room rental cost?
The Park District’s 2025 rate document lists resident rates from $50.50 per hour for certain smaller rooms to $139.50 per hour for the combined three-room Mountain View space, plus deposits and setup charges. Verify current prices.
9. Can alcohol be served at Prairie Lakes Community Center events?
No. The published Des Plaines Park District rental policies prohibit alcoholic beverages at Prairie Lakes Community Center.
10. How can I register for Prairie Lakes programs?
Use the Des Plaines Park District’s official recreation registration portal, select the appropriate activity and Prairie Lakes location, review the age and fee requirements, and complete enrollment.
Official Sources, Membership & Rental Links
- Prairie Lakes official address, hours, fitness reopening and rentals
- Park District facility rentals and current inquiry information
- Published 2025 facility rental rates PDF
- Prairie Lakes rental information, equipment and policies PDF
- Fitness and Aquatics membership registration form
- Official Park District class and program registration
- Des Plaines Park District main website
Reviewed October 2026. Regular operating hours and renovation information are from the live Park District page. Detailed room prices are from the 2025 rental schedule and must be reconfirmed for 2026. Aquatic schedules, fitness memberships, available rental spaces and event policies can change. This independent guide is not operated by the Des Plaines Park District.