MUSCATINE, Iowa — Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer in Muscatine, and the city is ready to celebrate with swimming, cycling, splash pads and family-friendly fun.
As residents welcome friends and relatives from near and far, Muscatine Parks and Recreation is rolling out a full slate of seasonal openings, highlighted by the return of the Muscatine Aquatic Center at Weed Park.
Aquatic Center hours and holiday weekend schedule
The Muscatine Aquatic Center opens for the season this Saturday, offering families their first big splash of the summer.
- Saturday, May 23 — Open 12–8 p.m., weather permitting
- Sunday, May 24 — Closed for the 46th Melon City Criterium
- Monday, May 25 (Memorial Day) — Open 12–8 p.m.
- May 26–29 (Tuesday–Friday) — Closed
- Saturday, May 30 — Reopens for the full summer season
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Families can explore admission and rental information at the Aquatic Center Fees page.
Splash pads and Mississippi Mist
Summer fun is not limited to the pool.
- The Taylor Park Splash Pad is officially open.
- Mississippi Mist is nearing its grand reopening after nearly two years of major renovations, a long-awaited return for one of Muscatine’s most popular warm-weather attractions.
Melon City Criterium: A Muscatine Memorial Day tradition
Weed Park will temporarily close at 5 a.m. on Sunday, May 24, as preparations begin for the 46th Melon City Criterium / Charlie Harper Memorial, organized by the Melon City Bike Club and Harper’s Cycling & Fitness.
The annual race draws elite cyclists and enthusiastic spectators from across the region, transforming Weed Park into one of the Midwest’s Memorial Day sporting venues. More than a race, the Criterium has become a celebration of Muscatine’s outdoor spirit, community pride and summer traditions.
Weed Park will reopen Sunday evening following the completion of racing and awards.
Traffic and safety information for Melon City Criterium
To ensure a safe and smooth event:
- Weed Park closure: Vehicle access closes at 5 a.m. Sunday at both Park Drive and Colorado Street entrances.
- No-parking zones: Parking is prohibited on Hillcrest Avenue, Oakland Drive and the alley from Hillcrest to Park Drive.
- Reopening time: Weed Park is expected to reopen around 6 p.m. Sunday.
Safety reminders
- Move parked vehicles from restricted areas.
- Keep pets secured.
- Remind children to stay clear of the race route for their safety and the cyclists’.
Race schedule and course details
- Racing begins at 8:30 a.m.
- Events include a 4-mile junior race and an 11-mile race on a 1.23-mile loop through Weed Park.
- The start/finish line is located near the playground at Parkington Drive and Park Drive.
Summer starts now
From the first splash at the Aquatic Center to the thrill of the Melon City Criterium, Muscatine is ready to launch into a season full of recreation, community and sunshine.
Summer is calling, Muscatine — grab your sunscreen, your pool crew, and make a splash.
