What’s Trending in Peoria, IL: 4 Fun Ways to Explore the Region
If it seems like there are always fun, cool things happening in Greater Peoria, that’s because it’s the truth. Ahead, find activities in four categories worth exploring.
In This Article
1) The Outdoors, Reimagined
Beyond hiking, rock climbing and other robust physical activities, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors in Greater Peoria. Hop on a bike and join fellow beer lovers on the Rock Island Ale Trail, which includes microbreweries, a distillery and bars. Attend outdoor yoga classes at Luthy Botanical Garden or Grand View Drive or find a sunset yoga class offered by Soulside Healing Arts. Also, enjoy food trucks, live music and brews at a Parks on Tap event.
For a dash of education, attend a family-friendly Stroll + Sign event by Communication Junction, where an instructor teaches sign language followed by a walk along the riverfront. Finally, dine alfresco at Cyd’s in the Park, which offers a patio in a beautiful setting.
2) Vintage and Thrift Revival
If you love treasure hunting for used and vintage reads, Greater Peoria has you covered. Lit. on Fire Books, an indie, LGBTQ+ friendly shop on Main Street, blends new and used titles with community flair. The Book Rack offers a wide selection of gently used books, while The Book Nook is a cozy favorite for bargain finds.
If you are into upcycling and vintage fashion, check out Two Sisters and a Warehouse, Urban Artifacts, Relics, and Peoria Architectural Salvage.
The annual Moss Avenue Sale takes place on the first Saturday of June, where tons of vendors sell a variety of items.
3) After-Hours Energy
When you’re looking to unwind after a long day, tap into the after-hours energy. There are so many amazing places to grab a drink if cocktails are your jam. In downtown Peoria, BLACK BAND Distillery makes its own coffee liqueur, which complements the establishment’s cool vibe. Ardor leads a dual life – by day, the downstairs is a coffee shop, while each night, cocktail bar Revel & Maker opens its doors. Matilda’s Cocktail Lounge is a newer addition to the landscape, and it’s worth a visit. It boasts unique 1970s decor and cocktails named after Sesame Street. If you’re looking for a little more nostalgia, The 33 Room is a taproom at the old Pabst Brewery in Peoria Heights. And don’t miss out on Clink Bar and Events and The Twelve Bar Lounge, both of which offer balcony and rooftop seating options.
Outside of drinks, you can catch a show and a good laugh at Jukebox Comedy Club. Or, if you’re craving some fine art, check out the First Friday event each month at the Contemporary Art Center of Peoria, where music and art mix to create an enchanting atmosphere.
4) Hands-on Learning
Greater Peoria is the perfect place for hands-on learning. From cooking classes at The Cookery (Morton) or Lori’s Kitchen Store (Washington) to writing retreats at My Writing Shed (Peoria) to pottery workshops at the Peoria Art Guild, Wheel Art Pottery Studios (Peoria) or Art at the Bodega (Washington), it’s easy to find exciting opportunities. Also, choose one of 20-plus DIY projects at Crafted DIY Studio (Peoria) or take a class at the Peoria Art Guild in a wide array of mediums. Peoria Park District is also fantastic, with programs that include sports, gardening and other pursuits.
Get to Know Greater Peoria
Want to learn more about living and working in Peoria? Check out the latest edition of Livability Greater Peoria.