Top Rated Attractions in Peoria

Forest Park Nature Center is a beautiful green space in Peoria Heights. At the spacious center, the visitors can explore a walking trail or just sit around and relax on picnic mats. The park can also be rented for private events. Along with this the park is known for organizing many cultural and community programs.

Formerly called the Glen Oak Conservatory, the Luthy Botanical Garden (George L. Luthy Memorial Botanical Garden) opened its doors in 1951. Spread across five acres (2.02 hectares) of many themed gardens such as the All Seasons Garden, Woodland Garden, Hosta Glade, Wildlife Garden, Rose Garden and Herb Garden, this beautiful green spot is a jewel of the neighborhood. This city landmark is known for its awesome flower shows, special events and horticultural displays. It also features a Conservatory and a garden gift shop which has everything related to gardening and also includes unique knick knacks and jewelry. Luthy Botanical Garden gives you a glimpse of the many shades nature has to offer in its different seasons. A visit to this wonderful parkland will be a refreshing experience.

Draped in Victorian grandeur, the Pettengill-Morron House is a beautiful piece of history from when Peoria was but a fledgling village. The structure was built for one Moses Pettengil, a former teacher, who along with his bride left his home in New Hampshire to pursue greener pastures in the west. It was built in 1868 on the foundation of an erstwhile property that was ravaged by a fire in 1865. A few elegant additions, along with Second Empire-style design transformed the original edifice into the regal mansion that one sees today. The Peoria Historical Society secured the house in 1967, thus converting it into a museum that displays the life and history of its erstwhile occupants. Tours of the house can be arranged by appointment.

One of the best places for children to learn and have fun is at the Peoria Playhouse Children's Museum. With interactive exhibits that lets them engage and give flight to their imagination, it is a great place for families and also for those who are young at heart. Also offering rentals and classes, this museum is an integral part of the Peoria community.

Overlooking the Illinois River, Peoria Riverfront Museum is one of the most popular attractions of the city. The museum is home to more than 15,000 objects that cover subjects ranging from history, science to art and ecology. The museum is also home to a planeterium and also has a theater on site. Apart from permanent exhibits, the museum in instrumental in organizing workshops, classes, and seminars covering a variety of educational material.

The Caterpillar Visitors Center is one of the unique museums that will bound to leave you impressed. Here, you can experience virtual thrill ride in Caterpillar's mining truck while also design you own truck. A must-visit, curious engineers will adore this place.