If you drive through O'Fallon, Illinois, you can't really miss it. That massive, 160,000-square-foot building sitting off Highway 50 isn't just another suburban gym. It’s the McKendree Metro Rec Plex. Honestly, most people around here just call it "the Plex," but there’s a lot of confusion about what actually happens inside those walls.
Is it just for college kids? Do you have to be a pro athlete to use the rinks? Is it open to the public or some exclusive club?
Let’s get the record straight. While it serves as the home turf for McKendree University’s hockey, swimming, and water polo teams, it’s basically a massive community playground. It opened its doors in early 2017 after a couple of years of anticipation, and it filled a pretty huge void in the Metro East area—specifically for ice and competitive lanes.
The Ice Rink Situation: It’s Not Just for Bearcats
One of the biggest misconceptions is that the ice is strictly for the McKendree Bearcats or the Southern Illinois Ice Hawks. While the Poettker Arena is definitely their home base, the facility houses two full-sized NHL rinks.
If you've ever tried to find decent ice time in the St. Louis area, you know it’s a nightmare. The Plex changed that. They run a "Learn to Skate" program that starts for kids as young as three. That’s tiny. They call it Pre-Skate, and it’s basically just teaching toddlers how not to fall over on a frozen sheet of water.
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For the adults, there’s the "Grumpy Old Men" hockey league. It’s a real thing. It’s competitive, sure, but it’s mostly about the community. You don’t need to be an ex-pro to show up for Stick & Puck sessions or public skating.
Water, Water Everywhere
If you aren't an ice person, you're probably there for the Aquatic Center. This isn't your neighborhood backyard pool. We're talking about a 10-lane championship-sized pool.
- The Competition Pool: It has 1-meter and 3-meter diving boards, plus a 5-meter platform. You’ll often see the McKendree University divers practicing here, which is honestly terrifying and impressive to watch simultaneously.
- The Rec Pool: This is where the actual "lifestyle" stuff happens. It’s got zero-depth entry, which is a lifesaver if you have toddlers who aren't ready for the deep end yet.
- The Programs: They run a "Learn to Swim" program that’s pretty high-demand.
The heat in the natatorium is consistent, so even in the middle of a brutal Illinois January, it feels like mid-July inside. It’s a bit of a sensory shock when you walk through the doors.
Beyond the Rinks and Lanes
Look, not everyone wants to strap on skates or a swimsuit. A lot of members just use the Atlantis Strength and Weight Center. It’s basically a gym-rat’s dream, but without the intimidating "meathead" vibe you get at some of the bigger national chains.
They’ve got an elevated walking track that circles the fitness area. It’s perfect for people who want to get their steps in without dealing with the humidity or the freezing wind off the prairie.
They also offer about 40+ group fitness classes a week. We’re talking HIIT, Yoga, Cycle, and Barre. If you’re a member, these are usually unlimited. Honestly, if you’re paying the $35–$45 a month for an individual membership, you might as well take the classes to get your money's worth.
Is it Worth the Drive?
Location-wise, it’s at 205 Rec Plex Drive, O'Fallon, IL 62269. It's about five minutes from the McKendree campus in Lebanon.
If you’re living in St. Louis or the surrounding Metro East, the "worth it" factor depends on what you’re looking for. If you just want a treadmill, go to a cheap $10-a-month gym. But if you want a place where your kid can do hockey practice while you do a HIIT class and your partner swims laps—all in the same building—the Plex is sort of the only game in town.
They also have a "PLEX Kids" program. This includes childcare, summer camps, and after-school care. It’s a massive relief for parents who need a place for their kids to be productive rather than just sitting in front of a screen.
Current Rates and Access (2026 Update)
As of early 2026, the rates have stayed pretty competitive.
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- Individual Adult: Around $35–$45 a month depending on if you sign a contract.
- Family Plans: Usually start around $70–$80 a month.
- Day Passes: If you just want to check it out for a day, it’s usually $15 for an adult and $10 for kids.
They do a "7-Day Free Trial" which is probably the smartest way to see if the vibe fits your routine. You just need a photo ID.
Actionable Next Steps
If you're thinking about joining or just visiting, here is how to actually make it happen without a headache:
- Check the Schedule First: Don't just show up with skates. Check their online calendar for "Public Session" times. The rinks are often blocked off for University games or private tournaments.
- Bring Your Own Gear: They have rentals, but if you're going more than once a month, buy your own skates or goggles. The rental line on a Saturday afternoon can be a test of patience.
- The "Off-Peak" Hack: If you want the weight room to yourself, try going between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. The morning crowd is gone, and the after-school/after-work rush hasn't hit yet.
- Tour the Facility: Seriously, take the free tour. The building is a maze of rinks, locker rooms, and studios. You'll want to know where the "secret" quiet spots are.
The McKendree Metro Rec Plex isn't just a building for college athletes; it's a massive resource for anyone in the Metro East looking to stay moving. Whether you’re there for a "Grumpy Old Men" game or just to walk the track, it’s a solid cornerstone of the O'Fallon community.