Ray Morrill Community Center
About
Ray Morrill Community Center is Wheaton's family activity hub offering something for every age and interest. With an indoor pool perfect for year-round swimming, diverse fitness classes, seasonal camps, and extensive programming, it's a one-stop destination where kids can burn energy while parents enjoy quality facilities and affordable family recreation.
Highlights
- ✓Year-round indoor heated pool with family swim times
- ✓Seasonal camps during school breaks that keep kids engaged and active
- ✓Variety of age-appropriate classes from gymnastics to sports skills
- ✓Clean, well-maintained facilities with helpful staff
- ✓Affordable community programming that won't break the family budget
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on weekends (right at 7:00 AM opening) to secure pool lanes before family swim gets crowded
- 2.Check the online schedule ahead of time as pool hours vary for open swim, lap swim, and lessons throughout the week
- 3.Bring water shoes for kids as pool deck can get slippery, and pack snacks since there's no on-site café
- 4.Non-residents can purchase day passes, but a resident membership pays for itself after just a few visits if you live nearby
- 5.The facility is located on the lower level, so don't be confused when you arrive at the address
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (9:00-11:00 AM) are ideal for toddlers and preschoolers with fewer crowds and calmer pool sessions. Weekend mornings work well for families but fill up quickly. Avoid weekday evenings (5:00-7:00 PM) when after-school crowds and adult fitness classes peak.
What to Know
Membership fees apply for residents and non-residents, with day passes available for occasional visits. Free parking is available on-site. No food is sold at the center, so bring water bottles and plan meals before or after your visit.
Seasonal Notes
Summer camps are extremely popular and fill up fast, so register early. The indoor pool makes this a perfect winter destination when outdoor activities are limited. Holiday hours may vary, especially around major holidays, so check the schedule in advance.
Nearby Eats
Egg Harbor Café (about 1 mile away) offers hearty breakfast and lunch options with a kids menu. For quick casual dining, Chipotle and Panera Bread are located nearby in Wheaton's shopping areas, perfect for refueling hungry kids after swimming.
More Activities Near Wheaton
Cantigny Park
Cantigny Park is a sprawling 27-acre destination in Wheaton that offers something for every family member. Kids absolutely light up when they see the vintage tank display, while parents appreciate the beautiful gardens, well-maintained walking trails, and ample picnic areas that make it easy to spend an entire day outdoors without breaking the bank.
Lincoln Marsh Natural Area
Lincoln Marsh Natural Area offers families an accessible introduction to wetland ecosystems right in Wheaton. The elevated boardwalk trails make it easy to navigate with strollers while keeping little ones dry, and the educational signage turns every walk into a fun learning adventure about local wildlife and plants.
Northside Park
Northside Park is a Wheaton gem that truly has something for every family member. With its popular splash pad for cooling off, well-maintained playground equipment, and spacious athletic fields, this park serves as both a quick afternoon stop and an all-day destination. The combination of active play areas and shaded picnic shelters makes it perfect for birthday parties, playdates, or just burning off energy after school.
Herrick Lake Forest Preserve
Herrick Lake Forest Preserve is a sprawling 887-acre natural wonderland perfect for families seeking outdoor adventure in the western suburbs. Kids will love exploring the miles of scenic trails, fishing from the dock, spotting wildlife around the beautiful lake, and enjoying wide-open picnic areas for family gatherings. The preserve offers a peaceful escape from screens with plenty of space for little ones to run free and bigger kids to discover nature.