Wheels O' Time Museum, Illinois River Valley Travel Guide

4.8 (263)

Explore vintage cars, trains, and more at this Peoria-area museum showcasing transportation, industry, and everyday life from a bygone era.

The Wheels O' Time Museum in Dunlap, Illinois, offers a nostalgic trip through history with its extensive collection of artifacts related to transportation, manufacturing, and everyday life in the Peoria area. From vintage cars and trains to household items and Caterpillar equipment, the museum showcases the region's rich heritage.

A brief summary to Wheels O' Time Museum

1710 W Woodside Dr, Dunlap, Illinois, 61525, US
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Click to display

Wednesday 12 pm-5 pm
Thursday 12 pm-5 pm
Friday 12 pm-5 pm
Saturday 12 pm-5 pm
Sunday 12 pm-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Wheels O' Time Museum.

Check the museum's website for special events and demonstrations, such as blacksmithing, which can enhance your visit.
Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's six buildings and outdoor exhibits.
Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds.
Take advantage of the interactive displays, like the model trains and musical devices, for a hands-on experience.
Active military members and their families can get free admission between Armed Forces Day and Labor Day.

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Getting There

Driving

The Wheels O' Time Museum is located north of Peoria. From downtown Peoria, take Route 40 (N. Knoxville Ave) north for approximately 8 miles. Turn left at the traffic light onto W Woodside Drive, then immediately turn left again into the museum's driveway. Parking is available on-site. Parking is free
Public Transport

While public transportation options directly to the museum are limited, you can take a CityLink bus to a stop along N Knoxville Ave (Route 40) and walk west to the museum. Check the CityLink Peoria website for the most up-to-date bus schedules and routes. From the nearest bus stop, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk to the museum. A one-way bus fare is typically $1.

Discover more about Wheels O' Time Museum

Step back in time at the Wheels O' Time Museum, a treasure trove of historical artifacts located in Dunlap, Illinois. Founded in 1977 and opened to the public in 1983, the museum has grown to encompass six buildings filled with exhibits that capture the essence of life in central Illinois from the past 50 to 100 years.The museum's diverse collection includes antique and collector cars, a Rock Island Steam locomotive, vintage fire trucks, model airplanes, clocks, a music room, a recreated grandma's kitchen, farm equipment, washing machines, a library, vintage fashion, a WMBD radio station exhibit, and model trains. Interactive displays, like the orchestrion and a miniature circus powered by kinetic energy, add to the engaging experience. Children can enjoy blowing steam whistles and operating model trains.Transportation enthusiasts will appreciate the collection of over 40 antique and collector cars, Caterpillar tractors, and the Rock Island Steam locomotive. The museum also features a restored 1938 LeTourneau steel house, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century domestic life. The Vonachen Old Place dining cars, restored in 2022, provide a unique look at railroad history.The museum operates from May through October, offering visitors a chance to explore its vast collection and participate in special events. With its commitment to preserving and showcasing the region's heritage, the Wheels O' Time Museum provides an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages.