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 on a Budget: 2-Day Adventure Guide

For those on a tight budget looking to explore Peoria, Illinois, there are plenty of affordable options to consider. One can take a stroll along the scenic banks of the Illinois River or explore the beautiful gardens and parks throughout the city. For a more cultural experience, a visit to the Peoria Riverfront Museum or a show at the historic Apollo Theater are also great options within budget.

Peoria Playground: A Fun-Filled 2 Day Family Getaway

Peoria, located in Illinois, is an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip. The town boasts numerous attractions suitable for all ages, including the Peoria Zoo, where kids can get up close to a variety of animals, the Riverfront Museum, which offers interactive exhibits and a planetarium, and the Peoria PlayHouse Children's Museum, featuring hands-on educational activities. Additionally, Peoria is known for its beautiful parks, such as Forest Park Nature Center, providing opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife observation, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable family getaway.

Discover Peoria's Budget-Friendly Fun in 5 Days!

Peoria, located in the state of Illinois, offers plenty of attractions for budget travelers. Visit the stunning Peoria Riverfront Museum, hike through the picturesque Forest Park Nature Center, or take a stroll along the riverfront. Affordable accommodation options are available in the downtown area, making the trip to Peoria a budget-friendly adventure.

4 Days of Budget-Friendly Fun in Peoria, USA

Traveling to Peoria on a budget is possible, with a variety of affordable options for accommodation, dining, and activities. Visitors can explore the city's Riverfront Museum Park, take a hike in the nearby wildlife preserve, or catch a minor league baseball game. With some careful planning, a trip to Peoria can be a fun and budget-friendly experience.