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Caterpillar Visitors Center: A Journey Through Innovation

Discover Caterpillar's legacy of innovation in Peoria, IL. Interactive exhibits, massive machines, and a journey through 90 years of progress.

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Explore the world of Caterpillar at the Visitors Center in Peoria, Illinois. Experience interactive exhibits, climb into massive machines, and discover the company's 90-year legacy of innovation and sustainable progress. It's more than just a museum; it's an immersive adventure for all ages.

A brief summary to Caterpillar Visitors Center

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully experience all the exhibits and activities.
  • Check the Visitors Center's website for special events and community free days.
  • Visit the Cat Merchandise Center for unique souvenirs and gifts.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Peoria Riverfront Museum, walk east along SW Washington Street for approximately 200 feet. The Caterpillar Visitors Center will be on your left, directly across from the Caterpillar World Headquarters. There are sidewalks and pedestrian crossings available. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    The CityLink bus system serves the Caterpillar Visitors Center. Several bus routes stop near the Visitors Center, including routes 1, 4, 7, and 8. From the CityLink Transit Center, take any of the aforementioned routes. The closest bus stops to the Caterpillar Visitors Center are 'Fulton @ City Hall' and 'OSF IPM'. Check the CityLink website for schedules and real-time updates. A single ride fare is $1.

  • Driving

    The Caterpillar Visitors Center is located at 110 SW Washington Street in downtown Peoria. From I-74, take theMain Street exit and head east. Turn right onto SW Washington Street. The Visitors Center will be on your right. Complimentary parking is available in the Water Street parking garage adjacent to the Caterpillar Visitors Center. Public parking is available beneath and between the Caterpillar Visitors Center and the Peoria Riverfront Museum accessible off of Water Street.

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Discover more about Caterpillar Visitors Center

The Caterpillar Visitors Center in Peoria, Illinois, offers a fascinating look into the history, innovation, and impact of one of the world's leading manufacturers of construction and mining equipment. Opened in October 2012, the 50,000-square-foot facility houses eight exhibit galleries and four theaters, featuring over 50 videos and 800 photographs that narrate Caterpillar's rich 90-year legacy. Your visit begins with a virtual ride in the bed of a massive Cat 797F Mining Truck, offering a thrilling introduction to the scale and power of Caterpillar machines. Explore interactive displays that allow you to design your own Cat machine and test your skills on a simulator. The Caterpillar Heritage Gallery showcases the company's history, from its humble beginnings to its role in major global projects like the construction of the Three Gorges Dam and the widening of the Panama Canal. Visitors can also explore the Immersive Visualization Center, where they can experience the same 3D technology Caterpillar uses to design and build machines and factories. The Future Theater offers a glimpse into the possibilities of tomorrow's world, while the People at Work Gallery highlights the contributions of Caterpillar employees, suppliers, and customers. Don't miss the Cat Merchandise Center, where you can find a wide selection of souvenirs, including die-cast models, apparel, and more. The Caterpillar Visitors Center achieved LEED Gold status for its sustainable features, including solar panels and rainwater retention systems.

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