Peoria, Illinois Travel Guide

Discover Peoria, Illinois: A blend of urban charm, natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture along the picturesque Illinois River.

Peoria, a city with a rich history, is nestled along the Illinois River. It offers a blend of urban charm and natural beauty. As you stroll through the city's streets, you'll discover a mix of modern attractions and historical sites. The Peoria Riverfront Museum is a must-visit, boasting interactive exhibits and an impressive planetarium. For art lovers, the Contemporary Art Center showcases local and regional artists. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the scenic views at Grand View Drive, often called the 'World's Most Beautiful Drive' by President Theodore Roosevelt. The Luthy Botanical Garden offers a peaceful retreat with its diverse collection of plants and themed gardens. Furthermore, Wildlife Prairie Park is a unique experience where you can see native animals in their natural habitats. Peoria also has a vibrant food scene, with a variety of dining options that reflect the city's diverse culture. From upscale restaurants to quaint cafes, there's something to satisfy every palate. Don't forget to explore the local breweries and enjoy a taste of Peoria's craft beer. With its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and warm Midwestern hospitality, Peoria is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing by the river, this charming city will leave a lasting impression.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Peoria.

Visit the Peoria Riverfront Museum early in the day to avoid crowds.
Take a leisurely drive along Grand View Drive for stunning views, especially during autumn.
Explore the Luthy Botanical Garden in the morning for the best light for photography.
Try local dishes at the Rhythm Kitchen Music Cafe for a taste of Peoria's food culture.
Check the schedule for events at the Contemporary Art Center to catch live performances and exhibitions.

Explore Peoria: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Peoria

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Peoria Zoo

Experience wildlife up close at Peoria Zoo, where adventure meets education in a stunning natural setting.

4.3

Peoria Riverfront Museum

Experience the fusion of art, science, and history at the Peoria Riverfront Museum, a captivating destination along the scenic Illinois River.

4.5

Glen Oak Park

Explore the beauty of Glen Oak Park in Peoria, Illinois—an urban park perfect for relaxation, recreation, and community events.

4.5

Caterpillar Visitors Center

Explore the Caterpillar Visitors Center in Peoria, IL - where machinery meets innovation! Experience interactive exhibits and the history of construction equipment.

4.7

Best landmarks in Peoria

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Peoria Civic Center

Discover the Peoria Civic Center, a dynamic venue for concerts, events, and community gatherings in the heart of Peoria, Illinois.

4.1

Contemporary Art Center of Peoria Illinois

Discover the vibrant artistic landscape at the Contemporary Art Center of Peoria, where contemporary art meets community culture in Illinois.

4.8

ExplorePeoria.com

ExplorePeoria.com: Your comprehensive guide to uncovering the best of Peoria, Illinois, from attractions to dining and local events.

4.9

Visit Downtown Peoria

Explore Peoria's vibrant culture and attractions through its Downtown Tourist Information Center, your guide to an unforgettable visit.

4.2

Best restaurants in Peoria

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Alexander's Steakhouse Peoria

Discover exquisite steak dining at Alexander's Steakhouse Peoria - where quality meets family-friendly hospitality.

4.6

One World

Discover the flavors of America at One World Cafe in Peoria—where every meal is crafted with love and quality ingredients.

4.6

Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery and Eatery

Discover Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery: A Historic Brewpub Offering Craft Beers and Delicious Cuisine in Peoria’s Charming Atmosphere.

4.4

Thyme Kitchen and Craft Beer

Discover Thyme Kitchen and Craft Beer: Peoria's top gastropub offering innovative American cuisine & an extensive craft beer selection.

4.5

Best bars in Peoria

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Kenny's Westside Pub

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Kenny's Westside Pub, Peoria's premier spot for great food, drinks, and live music.

4.5

Ulrich's Rebellion Room

Discover the lively ambiance and delectable Irish cuisine at Ulrich's Rebellion Room in Peoria, a must-visit for food and drink enthusiasts.

4.7

Last Chance Bar & Grill

Experience the vibrant flavors and warm hospitality of Last Chance Bar & Grill in Peoria, where casual dining meets local charm.

4.4

Martinis On Water Street

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning riverside views at Martinis On Water Street, Peoria's premier bar for martini lovers.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Peoria

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

L A Connection

Discover the vibrant nightlife at L A Connection, Peoria's favorite bar, offering an inviting atmosphere and a wide range of drinks for a memorable evening.

4.2

Saddle Up Dance Club

Experience the lively atmosphere of Saddle Up Dance Club, a premier night club in Peoria, Illinois, featuring live music and endless dancing.

3.1

Dixie Rose Country Rock Cabaret

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Dixie Rose Country Rock Cabaret, Peoria's premier destination for live entertainment and unforgettable fun.

4.7

Big Al's - Peoria Strip Club

Discover the excitement of Peoria's nightlife at Big Al's, a vibrant adult entertainment club with captivating performances and a full bar.

3.5

Best shops in Peoria

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Northwoods Mall

Northwoods Mall: Peoria's Premier Shopping Destination with Diverse Retailers and Dining Options.

4.0

The Shoppes at Grand Prairie

Experience the vibrant shopping and dining options at The Shoppes at Grand Prairie, a premier retail destination in Peoria, Illinois.

4.2

Glen Hollow

Discover Glen Hollow, Peoria’s vibrant shopping mall with diverse stores and delicious dining, perfect for an unforgettable shopping experience.

4.2

Junction City Shopping Center

Junction City Shopping Center: Your ultimate shopping destination in Peoria, IL, with a diverse mix of shops and dining options for all tastes.

4.5

Explore Peoria on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Peoria, mapped for you.

Peoria Essentials

Peoria is conveniently located in central Illinois and is accessible by various modes of transportation. The main airport serving the area is General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport (PIA), which offers flights from major cities. Peoria is also well-connected by road, with Interstate 74 running through the city. For those traveling by train, Amtrak services are available in nearby cities such as Bloomington-Normal and Galesburg, with bus connections to Peoria.
Peoria offers several transportation options for getting around the city. The Peoria Transit System (CityLink) provides bus services throughout the city and surrounding areas. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available. For those who prefer to drive, car rental services are available at the airport and various locations around the city. Additionally, Peoria has a network of bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly areas, making it easy to explore on foot or by bicycle.
The official currency in Peoria, as in the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, allowing for easy access to cash. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in local markets or smaller businesses that may not accept cards.
Peoria is generally a safe city, but it is always wise to take standard precautions. The downtown area and popular tourist spots are usually safe, but some areas in the South End and near the River West neighborhoods have higher crime rates. Tourists should avoid these areas, especially after dark. Always be aware of your surroundings, keep an eye on your belongings, and avoid displaying valuables in public.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Peoria has several hospitals and medical facilities, including OSF Saint Francis Medical Center and UnityPoint Health – Methodist. For non-emergency health issues, there are numerous pharmacies and urgent care centers throughout the city. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress in comfortable and casual clothing, but avoid overly revealing attire. Business casual is appropriate for upscale restaurants and events. Religion: Do respect local religious practices and places of worship. Remove hats and speak softly in churches. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Avoid loud conversations and keep your belongings close. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly handshake and maintain eye contact. A smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like deep-dish pizza and pork tenderloin sandwiches. Don’t tip less than 15-20% in restaurants, as tipping is customary.
To experience Peoria like a local, visit the RiverFront Market on Saturdays for fresh produce and handmade goods. Explore the Peoria Riverfront Museum and Caterpillar Visitors Center to learn about the city's history and industry. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Rock Island Trail offers beautiful scenery and a chance to mingle with locals. Don’t miss the annual Peoria Art Guild Fine Art Fair, a beloved local event showcasing artists from around the country.

When is the best time to visit Peoria?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Peoria

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Peoria. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [Hou-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [See ya]
- YesYep
  [Yep]
- NoNope
  [Nope]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [Pleez/No problem]
- Thank youThanks
  [Thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [Par-dun me/My bad]
- How are you?How ya doin'?
  [How ya doin']
- Fine. And you?Good. How 'bout you?
  [Good. How 'bout you?]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [Ya speak English?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I get the menu?
  [Can I get the menu?]
- I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [I don't do meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please
  [Check, please]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [Get lost!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [Get a doctor!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [Just browsing]
- How much is it?How much?
  [How much?]
- That's too expensiveThat costs too much
  [That costs too much]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do better?
  [Can you do better?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
- Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [Ten thirty]
- MorningMorning
  [Morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

History of Peoria

Peoria, Illinois, is one of the oldest European settlements in the Midwest, established in 1691 by French explorers Henri de Tonti and François de La Forêt. Initially named Fort Clark, the settlement served as a strategic trading post along the Illinois River.
During the early 19th century, Peoria was a focal point in conflicts between Native American tribes and European settlers. The area saw significant tension, culminating in the War of 1812, where Fort Clark was destroyed. The fort was later rebuilt, reinforcing its strategic importance.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Peoria earned the nickname 'Whiskey Capital of the World' due to its booming distillery industry. At its peak, the city was home to more than 70 distilleries and breweries, contributing significantly to the local economy.
Peoria is the birthplace of Caterpillar Inc., one of the world’s leading manufacturers of construction and mining equipment. Founded in 1925, the company has had a profound impact on Peoria's economic and cultural landscape, employing thousands and fostering community development.
Peoria played a notable role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. Local activists and organizations, such as the NAACP, worked tirelessly to end segregation and promote equality. The city hosted several significant events, including speeches by prominent leaders like Martin Luther King Jr.
Today, Peoria is a dynamic city blending its rich historical past with modern advancements. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene with museums, theaters, and festivals that celebrate its diverse heritage. Notable institutions like Bradley University contribute to its educational and cultural vibrancy.