The Outdoors
City Parks
The City of Mattoon offers many parks and outdoor spaces for entertainment & recreation including Peterson Park, Lawson Park, Little Kinzel Park, as well as a walking and biking trail. For more information call us at 217-234-3611 or visit our website.
Privately Owned Parks
Within the City of Mattoon there are a few privately owned parks and recreation spots including Lytle Park with an outstanding public pool, Friendship Park, and the Douglas Hart Nature center with wildlife displays and walking trails.
Lakes & Camping
Nestled in the heart of Central Illinois, the City of Mattoon owns two lakes located in the south west corner of Coles County extending into the counties of Shelby and Cumberland.
Lake Paradise: Boats are allowed on Paradise but is a “No Wake” lake with no skiing, swimming, knee boarding, tubing, etc. For more information call 217-234-3611 or visit our website.
Lake Mattoon: This has become a popular recreational site for camping, fishing and boating. Boating & fishing are available almost year round. For more information call 217-234-3611 or visit our website.
Mattoon Multisport
Mattoon Multisport hosts several triathlons, 10Ks and 5Ks every year.
Sports Fields
The City of Mattoon owns and maintains sports fields throughout Mattoon. Baseball, Softball, T-ball, Soccer, Football, Tennis…you name it, we’ve got it! Visit our website.
Golf Courses
There are two public golf courses located in Mattoon, Meadowview Golf Course (18 Holes) and Rogala Public Links (9 Holes) as well as one private golf course, the Mattoon Golf & Country Club. For “amateurs” working on their short game, try out our miniature golf course, Vinny & Al’s Pla-More Golf located inside Peterson Park in Mattoon.
Lincoln Log Cabin (12 Miles East)
Lincoln Log Cabin is an 86-acre historic site that is owned and operated by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency, Division of Historic Sites. Visit our website.
Skating Rink
The Silver Star Skate center is located on N Rt 45 in Mattoon and offers a solid maple floor, state of the art sound and lighting system, a great snack bar and wholesome atmosphere. Visit our website.
Movie Theatre
AMC Showplace 10 is located on the east side of Mattoon just off exit 190A. Visit our website.
Mattoon Area Family YMCA
Programs included at the YMCA: Youth sports, swim lessons, a competitive youth swim team, water exercise, fitness, day camp and adult sports. Visit our website for more information.
Mattoon Academy of Gymnastics & Dance
Located at 412 Shelby Avenue in Mattoon the Mattoon Academy offers gymnastics, dance, tumble & cheer. Visit our website.
Little Theatre on the Square
Located just 12 miles to the west of Mattoon, the Little Theatre on the Square offers productions of all sorts. Visit our website.
