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Glen Oak Park: Peoria's Historic Green Heart

Discover nature, history, and family fun at Peoria's iconic Glen Oak Park, home to a zoo, botanical garden, and endless recreation.

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Glen Oak Park, a 117-acre park in Peoria, Illinois, has been a community hub since 1896. Home to the Peoria Zoo, Luthy Botanical Garden, and a variety of recreational facilities, it offers a blend of nature, history, and entertainment for all ages.

A brief summary to Glen Oak Park

Local tips

  • Explore the Luthy Botanical Garden; it's a beautiful and relaxing stroll after the kids have run around the park.
  • Visit the Peoria Zoo within the park; it features animals from around the world.
  • Take advantage of the park's recreational facilities, including tennis and pickleball courts.
  • Check out the Glen Oak Amphitheater for outdoor concerts and events.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Peoria PlayHouse Children's Museum, walk north along N Prospect Rd. Turn left at the park entrance. Follow the paved path towards the park's central area. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. No costs are associated with this route.

  • Public Transport

    The CityLink bus system serves Glen Oak Park. From downtown Peoria, take any CityLink bus that stops near Prospect Road and Glen Oak Avenue. Several routes serve this area. Check the CityLink website for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. A single ride fare is $1. From the bus stop, walk west into the park.

  • Driving

    From downtown Peoria, take N Prospect Road north. Glen Oak Park is located at 2218 N Prospect Rd. Parking is available within the park. Parking is free. Be aware that road conditions leading to the park can be uneven.

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Discover more about Glen Oak Park

Glen Oak Park, a sprawling 117-acre oasis in Peoria, Illinois, has been a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike since its establishment in 1896. Designed by Oscar F. Dubuis, the park is not just a green space but a vibrant center of recreation and community engagement. The park boasts a diverse range of attractions, including the Peoria Zoo, home to over 100 species of animals. The Luthy Botanical Garden offers themed gardens and a conservatory. For families, there's the Peoria PlayHouse Children's Museum and a fully inclusive playground. The Rotary Adventure Grove provides a nature-themed play environment. Beyond its main attractions, Glen Oak Park features the Glen Oak Amphitheatre, Glen Oak Lagoon for fishing, tennis and pickleball courts, picnic shelters, and walking trails. Several historical landmarks dot the landscape, including the Glen Oak Pavilion, Stine Fort and Cannon, and various monuments. The park has evolved over the decades to meet the changing needs of the community, while still retaining its historical charm. Glen Oak Park is open from 5 am to 11 pm daily.

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