Caterpillar Visitors Center: A Journey Through Innovation

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.