10 Things To Do In Peoria: Complete Guide To The Illinois River's Biggest City (2024)

This article is part of a directory: Central US States: Complete Travel Guide

When travelers think of Illinois, they might picture the record-breaking hub of Chicago, the historical site of Springfield, or even a pile-up of snow in winter. But Peoria offers something a bit different.

Located on the Illinois River, Peoria is a bustling historic city with a lot of unique attractions and plenty of fun adventures to explore.

The city's history is steeped in whiskey, its natural attractions are breathtaking, and the riverfront offers countless unique experiences. Here's everything to do in Peoria, Illinois, and what to know about visiting.

Things To Do In Peoria, Illinois

Peoria, IL is the biggest city along the Illinois River and has plenty of things for visitors to explore, from historical museums to botanical gardens and more.

1 Recreation At Lake Peoria

McClugage Bridge in Peoria IL

Yes, Peoria has its own lake! Both Peoria Lake and Upper Peoria Lake are open for boating and fishing and offer parks for recreation.

Water sports are popular here, and the lake also hosts Fourth of July fireworks each year.

2 Play In The Illinois River

Peoria Illinois Skyline

The Illinois River is another great place to enjoy recreation like boating, swimming, kayaking, and floating down the river. Rental watercraft are available along the river, but sitting at one of the riverfront parks and spectating can be enjoyable, too.

• Can I swim in the Illinois River? It's not advisable to swim in the Illinois River, but visitors can kayak, boat, and canoe.

3 Head Off The Beaten Path

Peoria and the Illinois River from the air in 1974

The town of Peoria has plenty of attractions to offer, but there is more to the city than, well, the city. Hikes in Peoria let visitors explore another side of Peoria.

Whether you're looking for a short one-mile trek or a ten-mile-plus adventure, there's something for everyone in Peoria's hills.

4 Indulge In Peoria's Whiskey History

Downtown Peoria IL

Did you know that Peoria, Illinois is famous for its whiskey production? Peoria was once nicknamed Whiskey City for its nearly 100 distilleries and breweries, which sprouted up due to the prime growing conditions plus river access that made transporting the products easy.

Not many distilleries still remain in Peoria, but visitors can at least sample some whiskey at BLACK BAND Distillery and enjoy other adult beverages at local breweries.

Related: 14 Things To Do In Rockford: Complete Guide To The Illinois City Just Outside Chicago

5 Spy The Sky At Northmoor Observatory

Peoria Illinois

In the summer, public viewings are held at Northmoor Observatory by the Peoria Astronomical Society, giving visitors a glimpse of the gorgeous night sky. This is one of the most unique things to do in Peoria, but visitors will need to time it right.

6 Discover Forest Park Nature Center

Bob Michel Bridge Peoria IL

The highlights at Forest Park Nature Center are birdwatching and hiking, with guided tours available as well as classes for both adults and kids.

Seven miles of hiking trails are available to explore, and the nature center is open year-round.

7 Peoria Riverfront Museum

South side of Peoria

Overlooking the Illinois River in the city’s downtown area, Peoria Riverfront Museum is brimming with magnificent galleries, which offer amazing exhibits. These exhibits are highly detailed and provide new experiences every time one visits.

This gives vacationers new reasons to visit the museum every time they are in Peoria. The museum also offers an opportunity to learn art and science. There is a gorgeous Sculpture Garden, a Giant Screen Theater, and the incredible Dome Planetarium to explore.

8 George L. Luthy Memorial Botanical Garden

George L Luthy memorial, a bronze plaque mounted on a stone wall in Luthy Botanic Gardens

Covering a space of about four and a half acres, George L. Luthy Memorial Botanical Garden is nestled in Glen Oak Park, on North Prospect Road. The botanical garden was established in 1951 and has numerous species of plants, including perennials, herbs, and roses.

There are also tropical plants and orchids in this beautiful space. Visiting George L. Luthy Memorial Botanical Garden is one of the best things to do in Peoria, Illinois.

9 Caterpillar Visitors Center & Museum

Green Bike Lane in Peoria, IL

Founded in 1886, Caterpillar Visitors Center & Museum is located adjacent to the Riverfront Museum, on SW Washington Street. The museum takes vacationers through the history of the Caterpillar Company.

Travelers will see different kinds of bulldozers, construction materials, and farm tools that the company has built over the years.

10 Peoria Zoo

Wallaby at Peoria Zoo, IL

Located adjacent to the George L. Luthy Memorial Botanical Garden, Peoria Zoo is a must-visit for families, thanks to its unique exhibits. The zoo is home to incredible creatures, including tigers, rhinos, tortoises, boa constrictors, and more.

There are numerous programs, camps, and classes to explore too.

Related: Skip Chicago And Check Out These Other Towns And Cities In Illinois (They're Worth It)

11 Things To Know Before Visiting Peoria, Illinois

Peoria, Illinois

• Vacationers can access Peoria International Airport from different spots, giving them a great way of exploring the city from all possible points.
• To save money on transportation, visitors should buy the Peoria CityLink Day Pass, which allows them to ride for less.
• The downtown area and East Peoria are great spots to stay when visiting the city since they have numerous attractions and several accommodation options.

12 When Is The Best Time To Visit Peoria, Illinois?

Road Diet with Green Colored Bike Lane in Peoria, Illiois

Illinois is known for its harsh winters, so weather is an important consideration when planning a visit to Peoria.

Summer months feature splendid weather with warm temperatures, and are the best time to explore Peoria, Illinois. It is the busiest season, which means the cost of accommodation, flights, restaurants, and excursions can be pretty high.

The season receives between six and ten days of monthly precipitation.

Related: Here's What Else Is There To Do In Illinois (Other Than Occasionally Overrated Chicago)

Fall is when tourism is slowest, which means vacationers can get the best deals. Winter months can be too cold for outdoor activities, but since they are slower with travelers, the hotels, restaurants, and excursions are reasonably priced.

• The best time to visit Peoria: June to August
• When to visit the city on a budget: Fall, Winter

13 How To Get Around Peoria, Illinois

Peoria, Illinois, USA

To get to Peoria, Illinois, one flies into Peoria International Airport, which offers daily flights to different cities, including Detroit, Las Vegas, and Orlando. Travelers can also drive in from historic Springfield, which is just over an hour's drive away.

Public Transport

From the airport, there are various ways to get to the city. The #7 bus runs between the airport and Downtown Peoria. The bus service operates every 60 minutes.

• #7 bus hours of operation: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm

Tourists can buy the Peoria CityLink Pass, which allows them to get to various destinations for only $3 per ride.

• The cost of Peoria CityLink Pass: $3 per ride

Rental Cars

Vacationers can also rent cars to get to and around the city from the airport. There are numerous car rental companies to choose from at the airport.

Getting around by car allows tourists to enjoy scenic trips of the city and smaller towns around.

Related: 11 Interesting Things to Do in Illinois (That Aren't in Chicago)

Taxi services are also available throughout the city.

14 Where To Stay In Peoria: Best Areas And Hotels

Peoria, IL, USA

Downtown Peoria

Downtown Peoria, the Civic Center, is an incredible place to stay as it offers vacationers entertainment options and attractions to explore. The place hosts popular concerts, events, festivals, and exciting exhibitions. Renaissance Park, Peoria Riverfront Museum, and the Caterpillar are some of the attractions located here.

Candlewood Suites Peoria at Grand Prairie

Candlewood Suites Peoria at Grand Prairie is located near downtown Peoria, in close proximity to the Peoria International Airport (PIA), making a trip to the city easy and convenient. The hotel also provides access to numerous local attractions, including the Peoria Civic Center and Peoria Riverfront Museum.

• Address: 5300 West Landens Way, Peoria, IL 61615
• Amenities: Fitness center, free Wi-Fi, coffee machine, free parking, business center, Wi-Fi available in all areas, internet, pets allowed on request (charges may apply), and laundry service.

Residence Inn by Marriott Peoria

Residence Inn by Marriott Peoria is located only minutes away from the downtown area of Peoria. It has large suites and stylish guest rooms that come with fantastic amenities.

• Address: 2000 West War Memorial Drive, Peoria, IL 61614
• Amenities: Indoor pool, fitness center, room service, free Wi-Fi, coffee machine, free parking, business center, Wi-Fi available in all areas, flat-screen TV, and cable or satellite TV.

East Peoria

East Peoria is located on the east coast of the Illinois River and is filled with numerous things to see and do, making it one of the best areas to stay when visiting the historic city. East Peoria has historic buildings, magnificent parks, and golf courses to explore.

Holiday Inn & Suites East Peoria

Holiday Inn & Suites East Peoria is one of the top-rated hotels in this area of Peoria. The hotel offers modern amenities, including stylish guest rooms, an award-winning restaurant, Johny’s Italian Steakhouse, and offers numerous opportunities for fun adventures.

• Address: 101 Holiday Street, East Peoria, IL 61611
• Amenities: Indoor pool, fitness center, restaurant, bar/lounge, room service, free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee maker, coffee machine, free parking, and free airport shuttle.

Hampton Inn East Peoria

Hampton Inn East Peoria is one of the best hotels in this historic city. It offers incredible access to local beautiful attractions and fantastic amenities and facilities.

• Address: 11 Winners Way, East Peoria, IL 61611
• Amenities: Indoor pool, fitness center, room service, free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee maker, coffee machine, valet parking, free parking, free airport shuttle, and shuttle service (free).

15 Where To Find The Best Food In Peoria, Illinois

Peoria, IL, USA

Peoria is brimming with beautiful sights, including Route 66 attractions worth road trips, which bring thousands of travelers around. The place is also lined with mouthwatering eateries that come in a variety of options and excellent services.

The restaurants offer tourists an opportunity to eat food made from scratch and try unique flavors. Here are the top picks for where to find the best food in Peoria.

• Childers Eatery: This is an American restaurant offering an incredible blend of classic dishes, new twists on traditional eats, and modern favorites.
• The Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern: This restaurant is one of the best in town, offering delicious eats prepared with top-quality ingredients. Barbecue nachos, smoked meat poutine, and fried dill pickle chips are some of the items on the menu.
• Thyme Kitchen & Craft Beer: Thyme offers an incredible culinary experience as well as extraordinary bar services. It boasts an extensive delicious menu, with food items like smoked wings, bison burgers, salmon burgers, and grilled macaroni & cheese.

16 Spending A Perfect Day In Peoria, Illinois

Peoria, IL, USA

Whether planning to go on a road trip to see unique Illinois attractions or make a stop along the Illinois River, Peoria is definitely one of the most beautiful towns in Illinois to visit. It's brimming with numerous family activities to explore in a day.

Head to Dozer Park and catch a game, especially in summer. The stadium boasts plenty of dining options, and there are several seating spots. After spending some time at the stadium, vacationers can go downtown and explore the historic buildings, colorful shops, hotels, and restaurants.

From there, head to Peoria Zoo, a great spot for families, filled with amazing exhibits and incredible animals.

Once done exploring the zoo, go on a sightseeing cruise on Spirit of Peoria, and call it a perfect day well spent in the historic city of Peoria, Illinois. Grab dinner and drinks at a local spot, and start planning for the next day's adventures.