Things To Do
in Peoria
Located in the state of Illinois, Peoria is a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It is situated along the Illinois River and offers a picturesque waterfront area for residents and visitors to enjoy. Peoria is also home to numerous museums, theaters, and outdoor recreational spaces, making it a great destination for all interests.
The city has a diverse economy with industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and education contributing to its growth and development.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll at Peoria's beautiful Glen Oak Park. Enjoy the fresh air and scenic views while taking in the local flora and fauna.
Visit the Peoria Zoo to see a variety of animals from around the world. Don't forget to check out the zoo's interactive exhibits for a fun experience!
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant offering a taste of Midwestern cuisine. Afterward, take a relaxing walk along the riverfront.
Visit the Peoria Riverfront Museum to explore its diverse art collections and engaging exhibits. Spend time learning about the history and culture of the region.
Head to the Caterpillar Visitors Center for an interactive experience about one of Peoria's largest companies. Discover the engineering marvels and the history of heavy machinery.
Catch a live performance at the Peoria Civic Center. Enjoy the local food scene by dining nearby before the show.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to national averages
- Access to various outdoor activities and parks
- A strong sense of community and local culture
- Proximity to larger urban centers like Chicago and St. Louis
- Growing job market with diverse employment opportunities
- Limited public transportation options
- Extreme weather conditions, including cold winters and hot summers
- Some areas may have higher crime rates
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities
- Stagnation in population growth and economic development in certain sectors
Best Activities in Peoria
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy scenic views and nature trails at Grandview Drive, one of Peoria's popular spots for outdoor activities.
Take a leisurely bike ride on the Rock Island Trail, a picturesque pathway offering a great outdoor experience.
Engage in fishing activities amidst the natural beauty of Wildlife Prairie Park, a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Peoria with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Peoria
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic drive known for its panoramic views of the Illinois River Valley and the city of Peoria.
Offers beautiful natural landscapes and stunning views of the Illinois River, making it a great spot for photography.
Provides picturesque views of the Illinois River and the city skyline, ideal for capturing beautiful sunset and cityscape shots.
Food in Peoria
Peoria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local favorite, this sandwich features a breaded and fried pork tenderloin served on a bun with classic toppings. Don't miss it at the Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern.
Must-Try!
For the adventurous foodie, the brain sandwich, battered and fried calf brains on a bun, can be savored at The Spotted Cow.
Indulge in this iconic open-faced sandwich consisting of meat, Texas toast, French fries, and a rich cheese sauce at the Brick House.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Peoria better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience the vibrant local food scene at this open-air market featuring fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a variety of street food vendors offering everything from gourmet tacos to artisanal burgers.
Keep an eye out for Peoria's food truck events showcasing a diverse range of cuisines, from Korean BBQ to decadent desserts, all served curbside with a side of local flair.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Peoria, it is important to respect personal space and maintain a comfortable distance when interacting with others.
Using polite language and manners is appreciated in Peoria, and it is important to say 'please' and 'thank you' in social interactions.
Peoria is a diverse community, and it is important to show respect for people from different cultural backgrounds and traditions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Peoria with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Peoria
Ensure a smooth experience
In Peoria, tipping is customary in restaurants, bars, and for services such as taxi rides and hotel staff. The typical tipping rate is around 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment in Peoria is commonly done using credit or debit cards, although cash is also widely accepted. Mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are increasingly being embraced by businesses in the area.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Peoria.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Peoria is in the spring, from March to May, when the weather is mild and the city is in full bloom with colorful flowers and blossoming trees. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring the parks, while also experiencing local festivals and events.
Summer in Peoria, from June to August, brings warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to explore the nearby waterways, such as the Illinois River, and enjoy outdoor recreational activities like boating, fishing, and water sports. The city also hosts summer concerts, fairs, and outdoor markets.
The fall season, from September to November, offers beautiful foliage as the leaves change color, making it an ideal time for nature walks, scenic drives, and photography. Visitors can also partake in fall harvest festivals, pumpkin patches, and seasonal events.
Winter in Peoria, from December to February, brings cold temperatures and occasional snowfall, creating a picturesque winter wonderland. It's a great time for indoor activities such as visiting museums, attending holiday events, and enjoying cozy evenings by the fireplace.
Peoria at Night
Hiking in Peoria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of trails located within the Peoria Park District, offering various difficulty levels suitable for all hikers.
This park features multiple trails winding through scenic landscapes, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
A beautiful hiking area around Lower Port Lake, providing trails that offer views of the water and surrounding wildlife.
This park has trail options that meander through wooded areas and open fields, ideal for hiking and birdwatching.
Located within the botanical garden, these trails make for a serene hiking experience surrounded by beautiful plants and flowers.
Offers several paved and unpaved trails, suitable for hiking, jogging, and enjoying the outdoors.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Peoria through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Peoria by plane.
Located approximately 165 miles northeast of Peoria, ORD is one of the busiest airports in the United States, offering numerous domestic and international flights.
Situated about 160 miles northeast of Peoria, MDW serves as a secondary airport for Chicago, handling many domestic routes and some international flights.
Located around 175 miles east of Peoria, IND is the busiest airport in Indiana, providing a variety of domestic and international travel options.
Approximately 120 miles southwest of Peoria, STL is the primary airport serving the St. Louis metropolitan area with extensive domestic and international connectivity.
About 200 miles northwest of Peoria, DSM serves the capital city of Iowa and offers a mix of domestic and select international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Caucasian individuals making up the largest demographic group in Peoria.
Individuals of African descent forming a significant portion of Peoria's population.
Individuals of Hispanic or Latino origin, comprising a growing demographic in Peoria.
Individuals of Asian descent, including East Asian, Southeast Asian, and South Asian groups.
Individuals identifying with two or more racial identities.
Individuals of Native American descent, representing a smaller demographic group in Peoria.
Individuals of Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander origins, representing a minority in the area.
The Soul of Peoria
Discover the essence of Peoria through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is a beloved sport in Peoria, with a rich history and local teams that engage the community.
Basketball is popular at both recreational and professional levels, with various youth leagues and school competitions.
American football has a strong following, with local high school teams and community support for college teams.
Soccer is growing in popularity, with youth leagues and adult recreational leagues drawing many participants.
Golf is a popular leisure activity in Peoria, featuring several quality golf courses for both casual and competitive play.
Ice hockey has a dedicated fan base, with local teams and youth programs contributing to the sport's presence.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Peoria.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Peoria's culinary landscape embraces vegetarian and vegan lifestyles, with many restaurants and cafes offering innovative plant-based dishes, such as Buddha bowls and vegan cheesesteaks.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities will find numerous venues providing dedicated gluten-free menus, with highlights including gourmet pizzas made with gluten-free crusts and indulgent flourless desserts.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Peoria with these cultural adventures.
