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Peoria

Peoria, Illinois, US

Peoria, Illinois, is a vibrant city on the Illinois River known for its rich cultural heritage, scenic riverfront, and delightful museums. Travelers will enjoy the charm of its neighborhoods and the beauty of its parks.

Location Overview

Timezone

America/Chicago

Local Time

07:42 AM

Population

113,150

Best Time to Visit

Temperature:

63-84°F (17-29°C) - Warm and humid with occasional thunderstorms.

Best Time

May-Oct

Connectivity

Power

120V

Port

Type A, Type B

Internet

Great

Airport Info

ORD

Chicago O'Hare International Airport

Distance

Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, 166 miles northeast via I-55 N and I-294 N.

Description

O'Hare is one of the world’s busiest airports, offering numerous amenities such as lounges, dining options, and duty-free shops. It’s accessible via major highways, public transit, and offers free airport shuttles.

Peoria, nestled along the Illinois River, offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the Peoria Riverfront Museum, enjoy a stroll through the lush Luthy Botanical Garden, or catch a performance at the historic Peoria Civic Center. The city's quaint neighborhoods are a delight for those looking to indulge in local shopping and dining experiences. Peoria's sports culture, especially its baseball team, adds excitement for sports enthusiasts. With its sprawling parks, the extravagance of the riverfront, and the warmth of its community, Peoria provides a memorable visit for all.

Peoria Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating

Moderate Risk

Exercise standard precautions.

Local Laws

Travelers should be aware of standard U.S. laws, including those related to alcohol consumption and driving. Open container laws prohibit the consumption of alcohol in public spaces.

Crime Rates

Peoria experiences a moderate level of crime, with property crimes being more prevalent than violent crimes. The city has made efforts to reduce crime rates, but certain areas still experience higher crime levels.

Health Risks

Healthcare facilities in Peoria are accessible and of good quality. There are no significant health risks specific to the area, but travelers should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage.

Natural Disasters

Peoria is susceptible to severe weather conditions, including tornadoes and thunderstorms, particularly in the spring and summer months. It is advisable to stay informed about weather forecasts and have a plan in place.

Law Enforcement

The Peoria Police Department is active and visible in the community, with efforts to engage with residents and improve safety. Response times are generally good, but resources can be stretched during peak times.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Peoria is generally safe, but travelers should remain vigilant, especially during late hours.

Solo Travelers

Solo travelers should exercise caution, especially when exploring unfamiliar areas. It is advisable to stay in well-populated areas and avoid walking alone at night.

Recent Developments

Recent initiatives have focused on community policing and reducing gang-related activities. There have been efforts to increase neighborhood watch programs and community involvement.

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Peoria Monthly Weather Overview

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Best season to visit

Current Conditions ():

Best Time to Visit Peoria

Summary: The ideal time to visit Peoria is from May to October, when the weather is pleasantly warm with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C (59°F to 81°F). Festivals, outdoor activities, and beautiful fall foliage are key attractions during these months.

❄️

January

January in Peoria is cold, with temperatures averaging -21°F to 36°F (6°C to 2°C). It's a quieter time but great for enjoying indoor attractions.

💘

February

Similar to January, February is chilly with minimal tourism. Average temperatures range from -23°F to 39°F (5°C to 4°C), making it ideal for cozy indoor experiences.

🌱

March

March marks the transition into spring with temperatures from 32°F to 52°F (0°C to 11°C). It's a great time for witnessing the budding flora.

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April

April sees temperatures between 5°C and 17°C (41°F to 63°F), offering mild weather and blooming landscapes, perfect for outdoor exploration.

🌷

May

Best

May is delightful with temperatures from 52°F to 73°F (11°C to 23°C). It is part of the best months to visit, featuring vibrant spring festivals.

☀️

June

Best

June is warm and inviting, with temperatures between 16°C and 28°C (61°F to 82°F), ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

🏖️

July

Best

July is the warmest month, with temperatures ranging from 67°F to 85°F (19°C to 29°C). Summer events and river activities are highlights.

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August

Best

August remains warm with temperatures from 64°F to 82°F (18°C to 28°C), perfect for enjoying Peoria's parks and outdoor dining.

🍂

September

Best

September brings cooler weather, averaging 55°F to 77°F (13°C to 25°C). Fall events and changing leaves make it another prime visiting time.

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October

Best

October offers temperatures between 45°F to 66°F (7°C to 19°C) and stunning autumn colors, ideal for picturesque adventures.

☔

November

November cools down significantly with temperatures from 36°F to 51°F (2°C to 11°C), marking the transition to winter, with fewer crowds.

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December

December is cold, with temperatures ranging from -25°F to 43°F (4°C to 6°C). It's a festive time to enjoy the holiday spirit.

Seasonal Events in Peoria

Every Saturday, May to September

Peoria Riverfront Market

A vibrant market showcasing fresh produce, local artisans, and live music.

Local First Illinois

September

Morton Pumpkin Festival

A celebration of the pumpkin harvest with parades, food, and entertainment.

Morton Chamber of Commerce

December

Snowden Over Illinois

A festive drive-through light display in East Peoria.

East Peoria Festival of Lights

August

Peoria Irish Fest

A lively festival celebrating Irish culture with music, dance, and food.

Peoria Irish Fest

Popular Foods in Peoria

Horseshoe Sandwich

An iconic Illinois open-faced sandwich topped with meats, fries, and cheese sauce.

Deep Dish Pizza

A famous Chicago-style pizza known for its thick crust and generous toppings.

Corn Dog

A classic American snack consisting of a hot dog coated in cornmeal batter and fried.

Apple Cider Donuts

A seasonal favorite in fall, these donuts are flavored with warm cider.

Pulled Pork Sandwich

A barbecue staple featuring slow-cooked, tender pork on a bun.

Closest Airports to Peoria

Regional Airport

General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport (PIA)

Peoria International offers convenient and quick access with several airlines offering direct flights and connections. Facilities include minimal wait times, free Wi-Fi, and ample parking.

Located approximately 7 miles west of downtown Peoria, about 15 minutes by car via U.S. 150 W.

Utilize the affordable onsite parking and check rental car options; the small size ensures a quick check-in and security process.

PIA Website

International Airport

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, 166 miles northeast via I-55 N and I-294 N.

Consider using the Pace bus services to connect to Chicago's Metra train system for downtown access; plan for potential traffic delays on highways.

ORD Website

Popular Trip Types

Family Vacation

Peoria, Illinois, offers a plethora of family-friendly activities, such as exploring the Peoria Zoo, visiting the Peoria Riverfront Museum with interactive exhibits, and enjoying the scenic beauty and outdoor activities at Glen Oak Park. The city provides numerous family-oriented accommodations and dining options, making it a great destination for families looking to bond and explore.

Cultural Exploration

Peoria is rich in cultural heritage and offers various opportunities for exploration. Travelers can delve into the city's history at the Peoria Historical Society and Museum, enjoy live performances at the historic Peoria Civic Center, and experience local culture at events like the Riverfront Market. These attractions make Peoria an ideal spot for cultural exploration trips.

Outdoor Adventure

With its proximity to the Illinois River and numerous parks, Peoria is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and birdwatching at the Forest Park Nature Center or engaging in water sports on the river. These activities provide an excellent opportunity for adventure seekers to connect with nature while visiting Peoria.

Romantic Getaway

Peoria offers charming accommodations like quaint bed and breakfasts and boutique hotels, alongside picturesque river views and cozy dining options perfect for a romantic evening. Couples can enjoy romantic strolls along the Peoria Riverfront, visit the Luthy Botanical Garden, and enjoy intimate dinners, making it a delightful location for a couples retreat.

Educational Trip

Peoria provides a range of educational attractions, such as the interactive exhibits at the Peoria Riverfront Museum, the planetarium, and the local wildlife experiences at the Peoria Zoo. This makes it an ideal destination for educational trips tailored for students and learners of all ages who are eager to expand their knowledge.

Custom Language

Midwestern Nice

Polite friendliness

Refers to the cultural norm of being extremely courteous and helpful to others.

Go Cubbies!

Support the Cubs

Used widely to cheer for the Chicago Cubs baseball team.

The Loop

Downtown Chicago

Refers to the central business district of nearby Chicago.

Lake Effect

Weather phenomenon

Describes the impact of the Great Lakes on regional weather, such as heavy snow.

Sweet Home Chicago

Chicago pride

Expresses affection and pride for Chicago and its surroundings, including Peoria.

Popular Sports & Teams in Peoria

Peoria Rivermen

The Peoria Rivermen are a professional ice hockey team that plays in the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL). They are well-known locally for their competitive spirit and have a dedicated fan base.

Peoria Rivermen Official Website

Bradley Braves Men's Basketball

The Bradley Braves represent Bradley University in NCAA Division I men's basketball. They play home games at the Carver Arena and are a major attraction during the college basketball season.

Bradley University Athletics

Peoria Chiefs

The Peoria Chiefs are a minor league baseball team affiliated with the St. Louis Cardinals. They play at Dozer Park and provide exciting baseball action throughout the summer months.

Peoria Chiefs Official Website

Central Illinois Flying Aces

The Central Illinois Flying Aces were a Tier I junior ice hockey team in the United States Hockey League. They were based in Bloomington, Illinois, which is in close proximity to Peoria.

Flying Aces Official Website (Archived)

Peoria City Soccer Club

Peoria City is a soccer team that competes in the USL League Two, which is part of the fourth tier in the American Soccer Pyramid. They aim to develop young talent and bring competitive soccer to the region.

Peoria City Soccer Club