Spirit of Peoria

Take a sightseeing or theme cruise on the Spirit of Peoria, an old-fashioned replica of a 19th-century riverboat that docks at the Peoria RiverFront. Join a one- to five-day overnight excursion to Starved Rock State Park or the St. Louis riverfront and be entertained by live ragtime piano and banjo music, as well as a storyteller sharing river lore, while the Spirit of Peoria paddles along the Illinois River. Stay the night at Starved Rock Lodge and see a show by a Mark Twain interpreter who brings the iconic author to life.

CITY: Peoria

Peoria's Grandview Drive "World's Most Beautiful Drive"

This quote from President Teddy Roosevelt describes his 1910 visit to Grandview Drive in Peoria Heights. The vistas gazed upon by the former president still sit upon bluffs unchanged from when the Indians first settled in the area centuries ago. Drive along the two-and-on-half mile drive to see the expansive panoramic view of Woodford, Tazewell and Marshall counties, where on a clear day, visitors can see more than thirty miles of the scenic Illinois River valley.

CITY: Peoria Heights

Peoria RiverFront

You’ll find art galleries, music venues, specialty shops, and great restaurants all located along Peoria’s beautiful RiverFront. Whether it’s a quick bite at a casual café or a relaxing dinner, we have something for everyone. You can enjoy live music and entertainment every weekend, shop the largest Antique Center in Central Illinois or find the perfect gift or home accent at one of our fun and inviting RiverFront shops. Throughout the summer, we offer an endless assortment of outdoor concerts and events. And don’t miss the RiverFront Market featuring local produce, art, and musicians, Saturday mornings, June – September. Peoria’s RiverFront… Where fun, food and friends meet!

CITY: Peoria

David Davis Mansion

The David Davis Mansion was the home of Judge David Davis, the friend, mentor and campaign manager for Abraham Lincoln. The elegant 36-room Victorian home tells the story of the generation that led the United States through the Civil War and early years of Reconstruction. Take a tour of the lavishly decorated mansion, where you’ll learn about the important friendship between Davis and Lincoln, and get a peek at what life was like for a wealthy Victorian-era family.

CITY: Bloomington

Wildlife Prairie State Park Lodging

Experience our exclusive facilities when planning your next business meeting or social gathering. Let us accommodate you with our exclusive on-site catering and high-speed wireless internet. 10 miles west of Peoria via I-74, exit 82. Also enjoy our unique overnight accommodations located in the park, including a cabin, cottages, cabooses and stables. Children welcome!

CITY: Peoria

Glen Oak Zoo

Open year-round, the Peoria Zoo is home to more than 100 species of animals from around the world. Come see our newest members of the zoo family in Africa! From giraffes and rhinoceros to spider monkeys and lions, the Zoo is the wildest family place in town. In addition to family recreational resources, educational programming and conservation-based programs are top priorities.

CITY: Peoria

Luthy Botanical Gardens

This beautiful spot features five acres of landscaped gardens including the Woodland Garden, Children's Garden, Herb Garden and several others. Tropical conservatory is open year-round. Outdoor Garden is open 8:30am to dusk year-round. Closed Mondays.

CITY: Peoria

Splashdown at EastSide

The wettest and wildest family water park in Central Illinois. Play in Splashtower Island or ride the lazy river. There's even a splash and play area for the young ones in your family. www.fondulacpark.com

CITY: East Peoria

Par-A-Dice Casino

Docked on Peoria Lake, Par-A-Dice offers high-stakes casino action that includes blackjack, roulette, craps and more than 1,000 slots. Enjoy a steak at Boyd’s Steakhouse or unwind with live piano music and a cocktail at Bourbon’s. The Par-A-Dice Hotel offers 202 rooms, including deluxe suites, just steps away from the casino.

CITY: East Peoria

Peoria Civic Center

Downstate Illinois' largest center is a four-building complex with a 12,000-seat arena. With 110,000 square feet of exhibit space, a 2,200-seat theater, a ball-room seating 1,500 for banquets and 16 meeting rooms this venue can house it all. As the premier entertainment facility in downstate Illinois, the Civic Center plays host to a variety of concerts, family shows, sporting events and Broadway Theater Series each year.

CITY: Peoria

McLean County Museum of History

Founded in 1904, the museum is housed in a magnificent courthouse that’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Located in downtown Bloomington, the museum reveals the lives of the people who shaped McLean County, including those who encountered and knew Abraham Lincoln.

CITY: Bloomington

Grady's Family Fun Center

As Bloomington-Normal's only amusement park, Grady's features an 18-hole mini-golf course, batting cages, bumper boats, go-karts and kiddie rides.

CITY: Bloomington

Lost and Found

A fresh mix of vintage and new items featuring an ever-changing array of home furnishings, gifts and items of intrigue. Stop in and be inspired.

CITY: Peoria

Riverplex Recreation and Wellness Center

State-of-the-art fitness center, indoor family aquatic center, pro shop, smoothie bar, classrooms, gymnasium, multipurpose recreation area with sports, classes, programs and other activities. Daily user fees or memberships available. Don't forget to also check out our indoor two-story water-slide, lazy river, zero depth pool and splash equipment!

CITY: Peoria

Linden Hill Farms

Come experience a working dairy farm! Milk a cow, feed the chickens, and just learn what it's like to live on a farm. Located just 8 miles from downtown Peoria. Call today to schedule your tour!

CITY: Peoria

Junction City Shopping Center

Conveniently located at the corner of Knoxville Ave. and Prospect Road in the heart of Peoria. We invite you to explore the boutiques and eateries along our historic boardwalk. Enjoy a gourmet lunch, shop for a new outfit, find traditional and modern home decor, or surprise a loved one with a bouquet of fresh flowers. The quality and sophistication of the Junction City experience rivals anything found in Illinois.

CITY: Peoria

Martini's on Water

Visit Martini's to enjoy one or more delicious concoctions from the expansive beverage menu. The selection includes key lime pie, bloody Mary, cheesecake, and cinnamon apple. Martini's offers outdoor seating on the patio, which has magnificent views of the river. Live entertainment and Monday specials are sure to make your visit memorable.

CITY: Peoria

Peoria Chiefs Baseball Team

The Peoria Chiefs are a Class A minor league baseball team, affiliated with the St. Louis Cardinals, from Peoria, Illinois. They play in the Midwest League.The Chiefs are proud to be Central Illinois’ most affordable family entertainment. Over 5 million fans have enjoyed top quality baseball and non-stop entertainment over the last 27 years. More than 120 former Chiefs have gone on to play in the Major Leagues, including Mark Grace, Greg Maddux, Joe Girardi, Yadier Molina, Dan Haren and Albert Pujols.

CITY: Peoria

Lavender Creek Farm

Lavender Creek Farm grows fields of organic lavender plants. Walk the lavender fields, pick bouquets and browse the plants for sale. Lavender soaps, oils, lotions, candles and more are made at the farmhouse - the old fashioned way!

CITY: Mackinaw

Fon du Lac Park District

Experience what 1600+ acres of parks, natural areas, riverfront and trails have to offer. Enjoy 2 golf courses, a picturesque marina and campground, Splashdown Water Park, and a variety of recreational programs and activities for all ages.

CITY: East Peoria

Mackinaw Valley Vineyard

Experience a bit of Napa Valley in Central Illinois. Visit the winery, tasting room and gift shop. Enjoy the panoramic view available for weddings, receptions and meetings.

CITY: Mackinaw

Ewing Cultural Center

Located on the wooded Sunset Hill estate of the late Hazle Buck Ewing, the Ewing Cultural Center encompasses the open-air Theatre at Ewing (summer home of the Illinois Shakespeare Festival), the elegant Ewing Manor (which is open for tours) and the beautiful Genevieve Green Gardens.

CITY: Bloomington

Peoria Glen Oak Zoo

Open year-round, the Peoria Zoo is home to more than 100 species of animals from around the world. Come see our newest members of the zoo family in Africa! From Giraffes and Rhinoceros to Spider Monkeys and Lions, the Zoo is the wildest family place in town. In addition to family recreational resources, educational programming, and conservation-based programs are top priorities. www.peoriazoo.org

CITY: Peoria

Forest Park Nature Center

500-acre Illinois nature preserve offering 7 miles of hiking trails ranging from rigorous uphill courses to flatter, less strenuous paths. The center also features a natural history museum, spacious bird watching room, nature hikes, guided walks and a nature store.

CITY: Peoria

Funks Grove Pure Maple Syrup

Guided tours offered during February and March that show syrup making by the "Boiling Down" process. Gift store stocked with syrup as well as Route 66 memorabilia.

CITY: Shirley

Spirits of Bloomington Historic Ghost Tours

The Spirits of Bloomington Historic Ghost Tours feature guides dressed as President Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd Lincoln who reveal fascinating tales, myths and paranormal accounts of McLean County.

CITY: Bloomington

Lakeview Family Aquatic Center

This outdoor aquatic center has a swimming pool, a zero depth pool with play equipment, 2 giant water slides, 1 small slide, diving boards, a video arcard and wet sand play area.An arcade, lockers, showers, concessions and souvenirs are also available! Children seven years and under must be accompanied by an adult 17 years or older.

CITY: Peoria

The Chocolatier, Inc.

The Chocolatier, Inc. in Downtown Bloomington specializes in fine chocolates and candies. Stop in and pick out the perfect treat!

CITY: Bloomington

Lakeview Museum of the Arts and Planetarium

The largest private downstate museum features art & science exhibitions, Children's Discovery Center, Planetarium, Illinois Folk Art Gallery, Illinois River Decoy and Illinois Jacquard Coverlet exhibitions, the Museum Store and more.

CITY: Peoria

Peoria Rivermen Hockey

The Peoria Rivermen, AAA affiliate of the NHL's St. Louis Blues, compete in the American Hockey League (AHL), which is the primary professional developmental league for all NHL prospects. In addition to the premier level of professional or collegiate sports between St. Louis and Chicago, the Rivermen are "More Than Just Hockey!" Each season, the Rivermen host celebrity appearances with stars from various Disney and Nickelodeon shows, in addition to high-profile Christian and Country acts. Serving Central Illinois for 27 seasons, the Rivermen play at Carver Arena in the Peoria Civic Center. www.rivermen.net

CITY: Peoria

Illinois River Road National Scenic Byway

The Byway unites more than 100 nature-based destinations throughout the Illinois River Valley, beginning in Ottawa and ending 140 miles south in Havana. Find the best spots for hunting, fishing, hiking, biking, canoeing, wetlands, gardens, birding and watching wildlife.

CITY: Peoria

Oliver's

Drinks, pizza & music... Come to where "it's happening" in Peoria Heights and enjoy homemade pizza and beer in our beer garden. Dine-in or carry out! Private parties welcomed and we have a band every Friday night. We offer weekly food & drink specials.

CITY: Peoria Heights

Shoppes at Grand Prairie

The Shoppes at Grand Prairie ~ a vibrant, open-air lifestyle center in Peoria ~ is the premier dining and shopping destination for the region, rivaling the chic malls typically found in larger cities. The Shoppes features an exciting blend of retailers and restaurants, along with our anchor stores: Bergner's, DSW, Jillian's and Dick's Sporting Goods. The center is highlighted by an inviting, lushly landscaped outdoor environment that features animal sculptures throughout the center, the nationally acclaimed Holocaust Memorial Button exhibit filled with 11 million buttons, the Caterpillar children's play area, and weekend entertainment.

CITY: Peoria

Patty and Bill's Riverfront Cottage

Make it a romantic get-away or a unique family stay with two comfortable bedrooms in this fabulous "home away from home". Bathe in our theraputic air bubble bathtub while you look out onto breathtaking views of the Illinois River, then step out onto an Italian porcelain tile heated floor. Our Swedish Memory Foam mattress will make you want to stay forever! Enjoy our great room with cathedral ceilings and comfortable furnishings, or step out onto the deck where you can enjoy your coffee or tea while taking in the panoramic views. It's a nature lover's paradise right in the very heart of Peoria! The wildlife is year round; from bald eagles to white pelicans as well as the reliable ducks and geese. Fishing poles and bikes are available for a small fee and prior reservations. We know where to find the finest bakery goods, meats and seafoods. We have a fully equipped kitchen where it is a pleasure to cook. We look forward to sharing our cottage with you.

CITY: Peoria

Miller Park Zoo

Miller Park Zoo is the only Illinois zoo to feature the endangered Sumatran tiger. This zoo also features several indoor and outdoor exhibits of exotic animals, special events, and is open year round.

CITY: Bloomington

Pettengill - Morron House Museum

An 1868 Victorian mansion in the historic Moss-High District. The museum houses decorative arts, fine textiles, antique furniture and silver collections.

CITY: Peoria

Rhythm Kitchen Music Cafe'

Relaxed, casual atmosphere in warehouse setting, serving beer, wine, and champagne.

CITY: Peoria

Genevieve Green Gardens

The Genevieve Green Gardens offer a relaxing setting for contemplation and the appreciation of nature's beauty. Small gardens are tucked in at various locations; there is also a formal compass garden with a beautiful arbor, a Japanese garden, and a main plaza that is highlighted by a water feature. Walkways, accompanied by tasteful signage, conveniently guide visitors around the property and are in harmony with the landscape's topography. Carefully designed lighting makes it possible to enjoy the gardens during evening hours.

CITY: Bloomington

Landmark Recreation Center

This recreation complex features 12 movie theaters, 50 bowling lanes, a racquet and health club, Peoria OTB, a sports bar, a barbershop and a bowling pro shop.

CITY: Peoria

World on Wheels Segway Tours

Peoria area’s only Segway tour and Quadracycle bike rental experience. Offering 30-minute, 1-hour, and 2-hour Segway tours as well as 30-minute Quadracycle bike rides. Gliding with World On Wheels is as fun as it gets. Use them for individual riding or corporate events. Open March thru November, weather permitting. Feel free to call for an appointment. Easy riding for all age levels.

CITY: Peoria

Peoria Pirates af2 Arena Football

Looking for some action? The Peoria Pirates Arena Football Team is back offering fast paced, action-filled entertainment in arena football. Playing Saturdays, March through July, every game will offer plenty of hard knocks and thrills.

CITY: Peoria

Camp Wokanda

Camp Wokanda, acquired from W.D. Boyce Council of the Boy Scouts of America, offers a beautiful 316-acre woodland setting, including a lake for fishing. The camp, with dining hall, sleeping cabins, program buildings and tent camping, offers a variety of naturalist tours, environmental education, and rental options to groups interested in a secluded, close-to-nature gathering. Located just 20 minutes from downtown Peoria, this Peoria Park District site has been providing fond memories for its young campers since the 1920s. Primarily used as a facility for group camping events, Camp Wokanda's overnight accommodations include cabin and primitive camping, as well as a central lodge and dining hall. Camp Wokanda hosts events including guided tours, environmental education programs, retreats, and even weddings.

CITY: Chillicothe

River Trail of Illinois

This 10-foot wide asphalt trail winds 4.8 miles along the former Illinois Terminal Railroad Co. path. Build in 1991, the River Trail provides a safe scenic route for outdoor recreation year round, winter weather permitting. The trail affords patrons the opportunity to experience the natural preservation of wildflowers, grasses, trees and wildlife. With direct access at the Park Administration Center, Bunnell field, and Taylor Street ball diamonds, and in close proximity to Veterans Park, Central Jr. High, West Park, and local restaurants, the River Trail offers something for everyone!

CITY: East Peoria

Stoney Creek Inn

This Northwoods-themed lodge features a total of 165 rooms, including 13 theme suites, 17 fireplaces, and 4 Premiere suites. The extensive meeting facilities accommodate events for up to 350. The lodge also includes an enclosed "Wilderness Park" with an indoor/outdoor swim through pool, whirlpool, sauna, game room and two outdoor patio areas. The Cottages at Stoney Creek Inn, a 12 room extended stay property, including 2 Premiere suites. Each room features full kitchen, deck, high speed internet access, desk and laundry access. All guests at Stoney have access to our exercise room, in-room movies, evening Health Bar and hot breakfast served daily. Located on the marina, 3/4 miles from the Casino.

CITY: East Peoria

Moraine View State Park Campground

Moraine View State Park offers 137 Class A trailer campsites with electricity and a sanitary station. Water is available in several locations in the campground. 102 sites can now be reserved in Gander Bay campground. A boat launch and dock is also situated in this area. Alcohol is prohibited in all campgrounds. The shower buildings are closed by November 1st (may be earlier if bad weather) and reopen May 1st (may be earlier - weather depending). Catfish Bay camp area and Tall Timber backpack trail provide 32 primitive class D sites. Timber Ridge group camp has 3 sites. Timberline Ridge horse camp has 30 Class "A" campsites complete with water, electricity, and hitching racks. Ol' Orchard group camp is currently closed.

CITY: Carlock

Riverfront Visitors Center

The historic Riverfront Visitors Center (RVC) is a one-stop-shop for all of your Peoria area information needs. You'll find Peoria area maps, guides, brochures, merchandise and more! The building is on the National Register of Historic Places and is extremely important to the history of the area and to the community! Open 6 days a week, until May 29th. Summer hours open 7 days a week. Now offering snacks, soda, water, gifts and select local event tickets.

CITY: Peoria

Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts

Built in 1922 to house the original American Passion Play, the former Scottish Rite Temple is the centerpiece of downtown Bloomington's Cultural District. The Performing Arts Center has a 1,200-seat theater and 1,000-person ballroom.

CITY: Bloomington

Conklin's Barn 2 Dinner Theatre

Your home for hospitality with a bountiful buffet and the funniest live dinner theatre in Central Illinois.

CITY: Goodfield

Flat Top Grill

A create-your-own stir-fry adventure offering Asian inspired appetizers, full bar and sinful desserts.

CITY: Peoria

Jim's Downtown Steakhouse

Choose from an upscale menu and dine with us in the decor of an Old English Country Inn. Elegant pub area with piano bar nightly. Convenient to the Peoria Civic Center.

CITY: Peoria

Embassy Suites

Full service hotel located in the area's premier entertainment district, the Peoria RiverFront. Spacious two-room suites with beautiful river and city views. Two restaurants, complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast and nightly manager's reception.

CITY: East Peoria

Mark Twain Hotel

Deluxe accommodations in the heart of Downtown Peoria

CITY: Peoria

Maid Rite - Peoria

Family-friendly environment serving breakfast all day, classic Maid Rite sandwiches and full dinners. Large 50's collectibles gift shop, as well.

CITY: Peoria

Normal CornBelters

The CornBelters are a professional minor league baseball team with the independent Frontier League. In addition to competitive baseball, fans enjoy zany on-field promotions, outrageous entertainment acts, delicious food and post-game fireworks.

CITY: Normal

Ackerman Farms

Ackerman Farms, celebrating over 100 years as a working family farm, invites everyone to join us from the 3rd week in August through the 3rd week in December. We feature over 150 different varieties of pumpkins and squash in all shapes and sizes, over 25 varieties of beautiful hardy mums, and over 15 varieties of apples from our orchard - everything you need for your fall decorations and for your table. Plan to spend the afternoon with us in our family friendly corn maze, ride a hay rack, browse the gift shop and visit our friendly farm animals. At Christmas, join us for hot cider by a cozy fire and leisurely shop our wonderful Christmas selection of gifts and decor. Don't forget to call us to schedule birthday parties or class field trips.

CITY: Morton

Four Points by Sheraton

We are proud to offer downtown Peoria's largest hotel and convention facility; everything a traveler needs is in one great location! We are conveniently located in the heart of downtown Peoria off I-74, just blocks from the Peoria Civic Center, Methodist and St. Francis Hospitals, riverfront attractions and Caterpillar World Headquarters. You will also find the Par-a-dice Casino, Bradley University and Peoria Regional Airport located minutes away.

CITY: Peoria

Peoria Motorcycle Club

Professional motorcycle racing. Oldest continuing dirt track in the world. Featuring Spring Poker Run, Annual Busch 600cc National TT, AHRMA TT, Camel Pro Challenge Cup, TT Steeplechase and the annual Turkey Run.

CITY: Bartonville

BlueLine Night Club

There's great bands and sophisticated atmosphere at the BlueLine Night Club in Downtown Bloomington!

CITY: Bloomington

Peoria Symphony Orchestra

Professional symphony orchestra performing 7 classical concerts per season and various pops and youth performances.

CITY: Peoria

Illinois Brewing Company

Great brewing company in a beautiful bar! Lunch and dinner served.

CITY: Bloomington

Gateway Building

An elegantly appointed venue along Peoria’s Riverfront, the Gateway offers the finest surroundings for your next business or social function. Constructed in 1997, this beautiful building was designed and created to be the focal point of Peoria's Riverfront. The Gateway is conveniently located downtown just one block from Interstate 74 and is within walking distance of hotels, major businesses, and many restaurants. The Riverfront provides a spectacular backdrop with its stunning views and the vibrant nightlife offers a unique and festive atmosphere. This is an affordable, convenient site for any meeting, banquet, or conference occasion. With the comfort and versatility the Gateway offers, you will want to make this the new home for your annual banquets and weekly meetings.

CITY: Peoria

O'Brien Field

O'Brien Field, home to Minor League Baseball’s Peoria Chiefs (Single A Affiliate of the Chicago Cubs) and Bradley University Baseball, is located in downtown Peoria. Within walking distance of the Peoria Civic Center and minutes from several downtown hotels. A modern state of the art facility with private dining areas and business meeting accommodations all year round. The perfect fit for all types of group outings. Read our review on www.stadiumjourney.com!

CITY: Peoria

Attic Treasures - The Shoppes at the Red Brick Church

A colletion of shops in a quaint brick church featuring antiques, crafts, and unique gifts.

CITY: Washington

Ronald Reagan Trail

A self-guided driving tour that celebrates the hometown values and heritage of our 40th President.

CITY: Eureka

Weaver Ridge Golf Course

This 18-hole championship golf course with incredible views also features a restaurant that opens daily at 11am and offers Sunday brunch.

CITY: Peoria

Howlin on Water...Dueling Pianos at the Waterhouse

The Waterhouse is a reception, rental and performance facility located in downtown Peoria along the beautiful Illinois River. Get crazy every Friday night at this hilariously entertaining show.

CITY: Peoria

IWU School of Theatre Arts

Four mainstage plays are performed annually, ranging from Shakespeare to musicals. Holiday events are held every season.

CITY: Bloomington

Duryea Center -- Northwestern Place

Located in Peoria's most distinguished shopping area. Offering upscale shopping for both men and women with Talbots, Azura Boutique and Bremer Jewelry.

CITY: Peoria

Community Players Theatre

The Community Players Theatre is committed to presenting quality theater at an affordable price. Call for current performances and tickets.

CITY: Bloomington

Eastlight Theatre

A regional community theatre presenting 4 main stage musicals a year.

CITY: East Peoria

Conklin's Barn II Dinner Theatre

dinner theatre

CITY: Goodfield

Pink Sugar Boutique

When you think boutique, think pink! Come to Pink Sugar Boutique for the latest fashion forward items. We have a wonderful selection of hats, scarves, belts, purses and jewelry! We have new styles arriving almost every day, and we are so excited to add new brands to our line up!

CITY: Peoria

The Framer's Gallery

If you are looking for a unique shopping experience stop at The Framer's Gallery and see all the great one-of-kind gifts from over 20 local artists including jewelry, pottery, wood carving, photography and various mediums of art work. The gallery also offers experienced custom framing at competitive prices. This is always a fun place to be. Come and enjoy the day on Washington Square.

CITY: Washington

Peoria Area Civic Chorale

A volunteer chorale group of around 100 singing members, PACC performs two concert series annually, May and December.

CITY: Peoria

Fairview Water Park

Fairview has an activity pool featuring arched water jets, a polar bear slide and a water mushroom. The park also features six lap swim lanes, a deep pool with two thrilling drop slides, multiple diving boards and two sand volleyball courts.

CITY: Normal

Metro Centre

Located in the center of Peoria, Metro Centre is Peoria's premier shopping destination, where the possibilities are endless - whether you are looking for fashions, footwear, crafts, sporting goods, musical instruments, unique gifts, children's clothing or art work. Or maybe you just want to pamper yourself with a manicure or a new hair style. If it's dining, we feature mochas to pizzas, ethnic cuisine to 24-hour dining. It's all here at Metro Centre -where you are never far from your car.

CITY: Peoria

Westlake Shopping Center

If you're looking for a mix of great shopping and tasty food, Westlake Shopping Center is the place to be! Shopping for the musician, toys for the kids, a variety of restaurants to please any palate and much more!

CITY: Peoria

Fine Line Studio

Give a gift that will be treasured forever. Beautiful graphite pencil and watercolor portraits created from your favorite photos. Homescapes, portraits and pets. Local watercolor prints and notecards available. Gift certificates available.

CITY: Peoria