One Week Explore & Enjoy Peoria, IL: Culture, Nature, and Dining

Day 1: Downtown & Riverfront

Peoria, IL on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Simply Crepes

Start your day with delicious sweet and savory crepes made with fresh ingredients in a cozy downtown setting.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Peoria Riverfront and Commerce Park Walk

Enjoy a scenic walk along the Illinois Riverfront and Commerce Park for fresh air, public art, and views of the riverboats.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Peoria Riverfront Museum

Visit this museum featuring art, science, history, and a giant dome theater; great for all ages to learn and explore.
USD12, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern

Tuck into classic American barbecue with a local twist in a vibrant atmosphere, open daily from 11am to 9pm.
USD20, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Peoria Civic Center area

Check out the events or a casual stroll around the Peoria Civic Center area with its shops and entertainment options.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Dinner at Martinis on Water Street

Enjoy upscale dining with stunning sunset views over the river, specializing in cocktails and fresh local cuisine.
USD35, 2h
View Hotels

Day 2: Museums & Culture

Peoria, IL on May 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Lavender 7 Cafe

Enjoy homemade pastries and freshly brewed coffee in a bright and welcoming cafe setting.
USD12, 1h

9:30am

Peoria PlayHouse Children's Museum

Interactive museum perfect for families, offering hands-on exhibits and creative play; opens 9:30 am to 5 pm.
USD7, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Hotshots Sports Bar & Grill

Casual dining with classic American fare located downtown, great for lunch and watching sports games.
USD15, 1h

1:30pm

Caterpillar Visitors Center

Discover the history of the famous Caterpillar company through interactive exhibits, open 9am to 5pm weekdays.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Garden of Hope and Peace

Visit this tranquil garden space in downtown Peoria for some peaceful reflection and lovely photos.
Free, 30m

5:00pm

Dinner at Belly Shack

Local favorite spot offering delicious fried chicken with a unique Southern twist, open till 9 pm.
USD25, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 3: Wildlife & Parks

Peoria, IL on May 26, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Kickstand Coffee & Kitchen

Enjoy quality coffee and hearty breakfast options to fuel your outdoor day.
USD12, 1h

9:00am

Peoria Zoo

Explore the native and exotic animals housed in this well-maintained zoo, open daily from 9am to 4 pm.
USD10, 2h

11:30am

Forest Park Nature Center

Hike trails, visit environmental exhibits, and enjoy the natural landscapes; open 9am to 5pm.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Henry's Steakhouse & Seafood

Treat yourself to premium steaks and fresh seafood in an elegant atmosphere, open for lunch till 2 pm.
USD30, 1h

3:00pm

Luthy Botanical Garden

Stroll through beautiful plant collections and seasonal displays and enjoy the peaceful gardens; open 10am to 4 pm.
USD6, 1h30m

5:00pm

Dinner at Five Points Washington

Enjoy upscale casual dining with a focus on fresh regional ingredients and a great wine list.
USD35, 2h
View Hotels

Day 4: History & Shopping

Peoria, IL on May 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Zip's Cafe

Classic American breakfast with a focus on generous portions and friendly service.
USD14, 1h

9:30am

Caterpillar Visitors Center

Revisit for a deeper dive or catch a special exhibit, open from 9am to 5pm weekdays.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Peoria City Hall and historical buildings tour

Explore the beautiful local architecture and learn about Peoria's history on a self-guided walking tour.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery and Eatery

Enjoy freshly brewed craft beers and hearty pub fare in a relaxed atmosphere downtown.
USD20, 1h

2:00pm

Shoppes at Grand Prairie

Spend the afternoon shopping at a variety of stores, including local boutiques and national retailers.
Varies, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Jim's Steakhouse

Dine at a renowned establishment known for classic steakhouse fare and exceptional service.
USD40, 2h
View Hotels

Day 5: Outdoor & River

Peoria, IL on May 28, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Starbucks Downtown

Start with a quick and popular coffee and pastry option located close to river activities.
USD10, 30m

8:30am

Illinois Riverboat Cruise

Take a morning cruise on the historic Mississippi River, enjoying views of the city skyline and nature; cruises typically last 2 hours.
USD25, 2h

11:00am

Petersen Park and Boat Club

Rent a kayak or paddle boat and explore the Illinois River at your own pace.
USD20, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch Picnic at Glen Oak Park

Enjoy a packed or takeout lunch in the expansive green spaces, known for large picnic areas and playgrounds.
USD15 (takeout), 1h

2:30pm

Peoria Zoo revisited or Forest Park

Optional relaxation or a second visit to either the zoo or nature spots depending on energy level.
USD10 or Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Dinner at The District

Contemporary, seasonal American dining with excellent cocktails to end the day, open till 9pm.
USD35, 2h
View Hotels

Day 6: Local Flavors & Relax

Peoria, IL on May 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Metropolitan Coffee Company

Enjoy premium coffee and fresh breakfast sandwiches in a relaxed downtown spot.
USD12, 1h

9:30am

Visit local farmers market (if available)

Browse fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local crafts if the farmers market is open this morning.
Free to browse, 1h

11:00am

Spa visit at Amara Spa

Relax with a massage or spa treatment to rejuvenate after several active days in Peoria.
USD80+, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Peking Garden

Enjoy flavorful Chinese cuisine in a comfortable setting, open daily till 8:30 pm.
USD18, 1h

3:00pm

Afternoon stroll at Rock Island Trail

Explore the scenic 26-mile trail perfect for walking or biking, with access close to downtown.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Firehouse Grill

Cozy restaurant offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a friendly atmosphere till 9 pm.
USD30, 2h
View Hotels

Day 7: Leisure & Events

Peoria, IL on May 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Estate Coffee Co.

Start with artisan coffee and light breakfast pastries, perfect for a relaxed final day.
USD12, 1h

9:00am

Attend a local morning event or farmers market (check local listings)

Experience local culture through markets, festivals, or community events happening this day.
Varies, 2h

11:30am

Explore East Peoria Riverfront Park

Take a relaxed walk along the riverfront with options for photo ops and a quiet green space.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Hawg Pit

Casual dining with smoked meats and hearty portions, open till 3pm.
USD18, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at hotel or explore local artisan shops

Spend the afternoon at leisure visiting local artisan shops for souvenirs or enjoying hotel amenities.
Varies, 2h

5:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Craft Urban

A great place to celebrate your week with craft beers and inventive menu items, open until 10 pm.
USD40, 2h
View Hotels