Peoria in 3 Days: Culture, Outdoors & Food

Discover the heartland of Illinois in Peoria, USA.

22 April 2023

Peoria is a scenic city located in central Illinois, known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. As a tourist, visitors can explore various iconic landmarks such as the Pere Marquette State Park, Wildlife Prairie Park and the Caterpillar Visitors Center. Peoria also offers an impressive range of restaurants, shops and entertainment options, making it a perfect destination for a memorable vacation.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Downtown

  • Check into the sleek and modern Mark Twain Hotel, centrally located in the heart of downtown Peoria.
  • Get your caffeine fix at Zion Coffee Bar, a cozy and inviting spot with a rotating selection of specialty brews.
  • Walk along historic Fulton Street and check out unique boutiques and shops like Relics, featuring vintage and handcrafted goods.
  • Enjoy a delicious farm-to-table meal at Thyme Kitchen & Craft Beer, known for their locally sourced ingredients and inventive dishes.
  • Catch a performance at the Peoria Civic Center, a cultural hub featuring everything from Broadway shows to stand-up comedy.
Day 2

Discovering the Outdoors

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Childers Eatery, a classic diner serving up traditional American fare.
  • Head to the Peoria Riverfront Museum to explore their interactive exhibits on science, art, and history.
  • Rent a bike from Bike Peoria and cruise along the picturesque Riverfront Trail, taking in the gorgeous views of the Illinois River.
  • Explore the stunning landscapes of Luthy Botanical Garden, featuring a wide variety of plants and flowers from around the world.
  • Enjoy a casual dinner at Kelleher's Irish Pub & Eatery, a cozy spot with a relaxed atmosphere and delicious pub grub.
Day 3

A Taste of Peoria

  • Indulge in a sweet breakfast at The Donut Experiment, a creative and fun spot where you can customize your own donuts with toppings like bacon and cereal.
  • Visit the Caterpillar Visitors Center to learn about the history and culture of the iconic Peoria-based company.
  • Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the distillery at JK Williams Distilling, where you can taste the locally made spirits and learn about the process.
  • Satisfy your cravings with a classic deep-dish pizza at Agatucci's Restaurant, a Peoria institution for over 90 years.
  • End the day with a nightcap at Industry Brewing, a trendy spot featuring craft beer and retro arcade games.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Peoria by plane is to fly into the General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport, which is located just a few miles west of the downtown area.

Car

Driving to Peoria is the best way to get there if you're coming from within the region. The city is conveniently located at the intersection of two major interstates: I-74 and I-55.

Train

Although Peoria does have a railway station, there are no passenger trains that currently run through the city. Therefore, the best way to get to Peoria is not by train.

Boat

As Peoria is located inland, there are no direct boat routes to the city. The nearest ports are located on the Illinois River, with Peoria being accessible via the river by boat from nearby ports such as Grafton, IL or St. Louis, MO.

Bus

Peoria is served by Greyhound and Burlington Trailways, both of which stop at the Peoria CityLink Transit Center located in downtown Peoria. Taking a bus is the best way to get to Peoria if you're traveling from a nearby city or state.

Destination

Peoria

If you're looking for a town that's almost as much fun to say as it is to visit, look no further than Peoria. Although, if you're unsure how to pronounce it, don't worry - the locals will gladly correct you.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Peoria, IL in 3 Days: Budget-Friendly Fun

A trip to Peoria, United States on a limited budget can be a memorable experience. Start with exploring the historic Grandview Drive, the Illinois Riverfront Museum, and the Wildlife Prairie Park, all of which are free or have nominal entry fees. Accommodation can be cost-effective with several low-cost hotels, motels, and even hostels available in the city. Finally, try some of the affordable dining options such as Jim's Steakhouse and Emo's Dairy Mart for some local delicacies.

4 Days of Fun in Peoria, USA

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A Romantic Day Trip to Peoria, USA

Peoria in the United States is a perfect romantic getaway for couples looking for some quality time together. The city offers stunning riverfront views, exciting outdoor activities like hiking and boating, and delicious local cuisine at its many restaurants. Couples can also enjoy cultural attractions and live performances at historic theatres in the city.

Peoria on a Budget: Unearthing Hidden Gems

Travelers on a limited budget will appreciate the affordability of Peoria, a vibrant city in the heart of Illinois. Despite its smaller size, Peoria boasts a rich history, a thriving arts scene and a host of budget-friendly activities, ranging from riverfront walks to brewery tours. With affordable dining and lodging options, this Midwestern gem is the perfect destination for budget-conscious travelers.