North Side Historic District: Peoria's Architectural Tapestry
Explore Peoria's North Side Historic District: A captivating blend of architectural styles and rich local history along the Illinois River.
The North Side Historic District, nestled on a terrace along the Illinois River in Peoria, offers a glimpse into the city's rich past. Predominantly residential, this district boasts an impressive collection of architectural styles, reflecting the growth and evolution of Peoria from the mid-19th century through the early 20th century. Registered as a historic district since 1983, the area encompasses a variety of contributing properties, each with its own unique story to tell. Among these are notable landmarks such as the Scottish Rite Cathedral, the former Spalding Institute and Academy of Our Lady buildings, and St. Mary's Cathedral. The district's architectural styles include Second Empire, Queen Anne, Italianate, Cotswold Cottage, Eastlake, Romanesque Revival, Gothic Revival, Norman Revival, Greek Revival, and Chateauesque. This eclectic mix creates a visually engaging streetscape, inviting visitors to explore the neighborhood's historic charm. While the district was originally on the north side of the city, Peoria's expansion has shifted its location to the southeastern quadrant. Today, the North Side Historic District stands as a testament to Peoria's heritage, offering a window into the lives and architectural tastes of its past residents.
Local tips
- Take a self-guided walking tour to admire the diverse architectural styles, including Queen Anne and Italianate.
- Visit St. Mary's Cathedral, one of the notable landmarks within the district.
- Check out the Scottish Rite Cathedral, another significant building showcasing unique architecture.
A brief summary to North Side Historic District
- 500-598 Evans St, Peoria, Illinois, 61603, US
Getting There
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Walking
The North Side Historic District is easily explored on foot. From downtown Peoria, head north on NE Madison Avenue. The district begins around 500 NE Madison, continuing for several blocks. Walking allows you to fully appreciate the architectural details of the historic buildings.
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Public Transport
CityLink, Peoria's public transit system, has several routes that serve the area. Check the CityLink website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. Several bus routes run along major streets bordering the district, such as NE Madison and NE Perry. A single ride fare is $1.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Peoria. A ride from downtown Peoria to the North Side Historic District will typically cost between $8 and $12, depending on traffic and demand.
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Parking
Street parking is available in the North Side Historic District, but it may be limited. Be sure to observe any parking restrictions. Several parking lots and garages are located in downtown Peoria, within walking distance of the district. Rates vary, but typically range from $1 to $2 per hour. Meter hoods may be obtained from Heartland Parking, 128 NE Madison St.
