About this city
Also known as: River City
Peoria is a historic, industrially prominent city beautifully situated along an expansive, lake-like section of the Illinois River known as Peoria Lake, serving as the seat of Peoria County. Established in 1691 by French explorers, it ranks as the oldest continuous European settlement in Illinois. Peoria is globally recognized for its deep manufacturing roots, famously serving for decades as the world headquarters of Caterpillar Inc. Today, it thrives as a vibrant cultural, medical, and scientific research powerhouse in central Illinois, blending a beautifully revitalized industrial riverfront district with historic hillside neighborhoods and notable historic landmarks.
Location & Administrative
Transportation & Accessibility
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Economics & Local Vibe
Practical Tourism Metadata
Suggested stay: 2–3 days
Stroll the vibrant Peoria Riverfront to visit lively weekend markets, local art galleries, and contemporary restaurants. Explore interactive hands-on science galleries and an expansive planetarium at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. Drive along Grandview Drive for breathtaking sweeping vistas of the river valley. Spot native North American wildlife at Wildlife Prairie Park.
