18 Best Things To Do In Peoria, Illinois
Peoria, Illinois, is a vibrant Midwest city known for its rich history, culture, and scenic riverfront. Visitors can explore the Peoria Riverfront Museum for art and history or enjoy interactive exhibits at the Caterpillar Visitors Center, showcasing the city’s industrial heritage. The picturesque Illinois River enhances outdoor recreation, offering scenic views and activities. With diverse attractions catering to various interests, Peoria is a standout destination. Discover its charm and top experiences with our guide to the best things to do in Peoria.
1. Peoria Riverfront Museum
Nestled along the Illinois River, the Peoria Riverfront Museum offers an immersive blend of art, science, and history. Visitors can explore diverse exhibits, from space exploration displays to rotating global art showcases. A standout attraction is the Dome Planetarium, where a star-filled sky creates a breathtaking experience. The museum also hosts year-round educational programs and community events, ensuring there’s always something new to discover. Be sure to check the exhibit calendar for special events that elevate the visit.
Fun fact: The museum houses the world’s largest private collection of Native American pottery by one individual!
2. Wildlife Prairie Park
Just outside Peoria, Wildlife Prairie Park spans 2,000 acres of preserved natural habitats, home to bison, elk, wolves, and bears. Unlike traditional zoos, this park offers a more authentic wildlife experience, allowing animals to roam in spacious environments. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, fishing, train rides, and even overnight stays in cabins or treehouses for a true wilderness retreat. Interactive exhibits and conservation programs make it an enriching visit for all ages.
Fun fact: Bison once roamed freely in Illinois—Wildlife Prairie Park brings them back to their native land for visitors to see up close!
3. Grandview Drive
Grandview Drive, dubbed the “World’s Most Beautiful Drive” by Theodore Roosevelt, offers breathtaking views of the Illinois River and historic homes. This scenic route winds through lush landscapes, with towering oak trees and picturesque lookout spots. Each season brings its own charm—from fiery autumn foliage to serene snow-covered views in winter. Visitors can take in the sights from their car, enjoy a picnic, or explore nearby hiking trails.
Fun Fact: President Theodore Roosevelt gave Grandview Drive its famous title, praising its unmatched beauty!
4. Peoria Zoo
Located in Glen Oak Park, the Peoria Zoo offers an intimate and educational wildlife experience. The Africa! Exhibit mimics the savannah, where lions, giraffes, and rhinos roam in naturalistic settings. The Australian Walkabout lets visitors walk among free-hopping wallabies for an up-close encounter. The zoo is dedicated to conservation, featuring interactive exhibits and keeper talks about endangered species. Though smaller than big-city zoos, it provides a well-curated experience, perfect for families and animal lovers alike.
Fun fact: Peoria Zoo’s Africa! Exhibit is so realistic that zookeepers track animals using a mock “GPS” system!
5. Luthy Botanical Garden
Located in the heart of Peoria, Luthy Botanical Garden is a tranquil five-acre oasis featuring over a thousand plant species. Visitors can explore themed gardens, from a peaceful Japanese garden to a fragrant herb garden, each offering a unique sensory experience. The tropical conservatory is a highlight, showcasing exotic orchids and rare plants, making it a perfect escape year-round. The garden also hosts seasonal events and educational programs, including the popular Spring Plant Sale. Free admission makes it an accessible retreat for nature lovers and casual visitors alike.
Fun fact: Luthy Botanical Garden’s tropical conservatory houses an endangered corpse flower, famous for its rare bloom and strong odor!
6. Caterpillar Visitors Center
For engineering and machinery enthusiasts, the Caterpillar Visitors Center offers an exciting look into the world of heavy equipment. The experience begins with a massive Cat 797F mining truck, large enough for visitors to climb inside! Interactive exhibits allow guests to simulate operating Caterpillar machines and learn about the company’s global impact in construction and mining. A 3D theater immerses visitors in the world of innovation, showcasing Caterpillar’s advancements in sustainability and technology.
Fun fact: The center’s two-story theater is built inside a CAT mining truck bed, offering a one-of-a-kind viewing experience!
7. Spirit of Peoria Riverboat Cruise
Experience a step back in time aboard the Spirit of Peoria, an authentic paddlewheel riverboat cruising the Illinois River. Guests can enjoy scenic day and evening cruises, featuring live music, storytelling, and themed experiences like murder mystery dinners and wildlife expeditions. The boat’s classic design and leisurely pace provide a relaxing and historic way to explore Peoria’s riverfront. Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers, this charming cruise offers an unforgettable experience on the water.
Fun fact: The Spirit of Peoria is one of the few true paddlewheel riverboats still in operation today, relying solely on its paddlewheel for propulsion!
8. Peoria Civic Center
The Peoria Civic Center is a premier entertainment and event venue in the heart of Peoria. It hosts concerts, sports events, conventions, and festivals, making it a bustling hub for locals and visitors alike. The arena, theater, and exhibit hall provide diverse experiences, from live music to comedy shows. Conveniently located near restaurants and hotels, it’s easy to plan a complete night out. With a friendly staff and well-designed layout, the Civic Center offers a top-tier experience for any event.
Fun fact: The Peoria Civic Center’s arena hosted Elvis Presley in 1976, just a year before his passing!
9. Forest Park Nature Center
A hidden gem for outdoor lovers, Forest Park Nature Center offers 500 acres of scenic trails through dense woodlands and river overlooks. With seven miles of hiking paths, visitors can enjoy everything from easy strolls to challenging treks. The nature center building features educational exhibits on local wildlife, and guided birdwatching tours are a favorite activity. Each season brings a new perspective, from wildflower-filled springs to vibrant autumn foliage. A perfect spot for those seeking both adventure and relaxation in nature.
Fun fact: Forest Park Nature Center is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 100 species spotted throughout the year!
10. Peoria PlayHouse Children’s Museum
Designed for hands-on learning, the Peoria PlayHouse Children’s Museum turns play into a fun educational adventure. Kids can engage with interactive exhibits that explore science, engineering, and art in exciting ways. Highlights include the “Real Tools” workshop, where kids use child-safe tools, and the “Sand Porch”, where they can dig and build freely. The museum also hosts special events like Mud Day and Maker Workshops, making each visit unique. A fantastic place for families looking to inspire creativity in young minds.
Fun fact: The Real Tools exhibit lets kids use actual tools to build and create like real engineers!
11. Tanners Orchard
For a perfect fall outing, Tanners Orchard is a must-visit spot in Speer, Illinois, just a short drive from Peoria. This family-owned apple orchard offers more than just apple picking; it's an entire experience with something for everyone. I went there last September, and from the moment I arrived, the smell of fresh apple cider donuts was impossible to resist.
Fun fact: Tanners Orchard makes its famous apple cider donuts fresh daily during fall, drawing in thousands of visitors who can’t resist the seasonal treat!
12. Dozer Park: Home of the Peoria Chiefs
Dozer Park is the ultimate destination for baseball lovers in Peoria, home to the Peoria Chiefs minor league team. The stadium offers an intimate yet electric atmosphere, making every game an exciting experience. With great seating views, kid-friendly activities, and delicious ballpark food, it’s a fantastic outing for families and sports enthusiasts. Don’t forget to check out the Chief’s Gear Shop for team merchandise!
Tip: Dozer Park’s BBQ nachos are a fan-favorite and a must-try at the concession stands!
13. Peoria Holocaust Memorial: A Place of Reflection and Remembrance
Located at the Peoria Riverfront Museum, the Peoria Holocaust Memorial is a deeply moving tribute. Its striking design features eleven million buttons, each representing a life lost during the Holocaust. The memorial combines education and remembrance, with plaques and exhibits offering historical context. A visit here is a powerful reminder of history’s lessons and the importance of standing against hatred.
Fun Fact: The buttons in the memorial were donated by people from all 50 states and 26 different countries to honor Holocaust victims.
14. Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Peoria: Compassionate Community Support
Serving Central Illinois, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Peoria provides essential support services, including food assistance, counseling, and financial aid. Their Family Support Program helps struggling families find stability, while their counseling services offer mental health support in times of crisis. With a strong emphasis on community outreach and volunteer opportunities, this organization embodies hope and resilience.
Fun Fact: Catholic Charities of Peoria has been helping the community for over 100 years, making a lasting impact on countless lives.
15. Laura Bradley Park: A Classic Green Space in Peoria
A scenic retreat along the Illinois River, Laura Bradley Park offers lush greenery, hiking trails, picnic areas, and sports facilities. Visitors can enjoy playgrounds for kids, well-maintained tennis courts, and a beautiful flower garden.
16. Escape60: The Ultimate Puzzle Adventure in Peoria
Escape60 takes escape room experiences to the next level with intricately designed puzzles and immersive storytelling. Whether you’re cracking a museum heist, escaping a prison cell, or defusing a bomb, each challenge tests teamwork and problem-solving skills. The engaging staff and high-quality set designs make Escape60 a thrilling adventure for groups, families, and corporate teams alike.
Fun Fact: Escape60’s rooms are frequently updated, so you can return for a brand-new challenge each time!
17. Wheels O’ Time Museum: A Trip Through Time
A nostalgic journey through history, Wheels O’ Time Museum showcases a diverse collection of vintage cars, trains, gadgets, and Americana memorabilia. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, including a 1920s fire truck, a classic 1940s diner, and a model train room. This museum is a perfect blend of education and entertainment, capturing the spirit of American innovation.
Fun Fact: The museum houses a fully restored 1917 steam locomotive, a highlight for train enthusiasts!
18. Elevate Trampoline Park: High-Flying Fun for All Ages
For an adrenaline-filled adventure, Elevate Trampoline Park offers wall-to-wall trampolines, ninja courses, foam pits, and dodgeball courts. It’s a great place for kids and adults alike to jump, flip, and play while getting in a fun workout.
Fun Fact: Jumping for 10 minutes at Elevate Trampoline Park burns as many calories as a 30-minute run!
Conclusion
Peoria is a hidden Midwest gem, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, outdoor beauty, and family-friendly attractions. Whether exploring museums, hiking scenic trails, catching a baseball game, or indulging in Peoria’s delicious eats, this city has something for everyone.
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FAQ
1. What is Peoria, Illinois, known for?
Peoria is famous for its riverfront history, Caterpillar Inc. headquarters, and cultural attractions like the Peoria Riverfront Museum and Civic Center.
2. What are some popular outdoor activities in Peoria?
Explore hiking at Forest Park Nature Center, scenic views at Grandview Drive, Wildlife Prairie Park, and Luthy Botanical Garden.
3. Is Peoria a family-friendly destination?
Yes! Families love the Peoria Zoo, PlayHouse Children’s Museum, Tanners Orchard, and kid-friendly parks and events.
4. What is the best time to visit Peoria, IL?
Spring and fall offer mild weather, vibrant foliage, and seasonal events like the Fine Art Fair and Festival of Lights.
5. Where can I learn about Peoria's history?
Visit the Peoria Riverfront Museum or join a Peoria Historical Society tour for insights into the city’s past.
6. Are there any major events or festivals in Peoria?
Popular events include the Peoria Art Guild Fine Art Fair, River City Soul Fest, and Festival of Lights.
7. Can I take a riverboat cruise in Peoria?
Yes! The Spirit of Peoria Riverboat offers scenic and themed cruises along the Illinois River.
8. What transportation options are available in Peoria?
Peoria has CityLink bus service, rental cars, taxis, rideshare options, and bike-friendly trails.
