Formerly called Grove Lake, Prince Pond is one of the oldest recreation areas in Downers Grove. E.H. Prince, who developed the area in the 1890s, improved the pond (calling it “our beautiful lake” in ads) and used it as a sales tool to successfully entice potential buyers to the subdivision. For more than 100 winters, it has been a favorite destination for ice skaters. In every season, Prince Pond is a visual delight – a tranquil, beautiful nature area for people to explore and enjoy. Improvements in the 1980s and 1990s, and more recently in 2019 and 2021 are assuring its continuing beauty and longevity.