Peoria: Rich With History, Nature and Culture

Peoria is a place like no other. And whether you grew up here, recently moved to the area or you’re just an occasional visitor, you know that Peoria has its own special traditions and history that make it so unique.

A few things to know:

• Peoria was once known as the "Whiskey Capital of the World," producing more than 50 percent of the nation's whiskey in the early 1900s. Today, you can learn about Peoria's whiskey history at the Whiskey City Architectural and Historic District, which features historic buildings that once housed whiskey distilleries and related businesses.
• Peoria is home to one of the oldest and largest operating African-American-owned bookstores in the United States. Founded in 1981, the African American Hall of Fame Museum and Bookstore is a treasure trove of African American literature, history and culture.
• The Peoria Riverfront Museum is a must-see attraction for visitors and locals alike. The museum features a wide range of exhibits, including a giant screen theater, planetarium and rotating art and science exhibits.
• Peoria is the birthplace of Richard Pryor, one of the most influential comedians of the 20th century. You can learn more about his life and career at the Richard Pryor Museum, which is located in Peoria.
• If you're looking for some outdoor fun, the Rock Island Greenway Trail is a popular spot for hiking, biking and jogging. The trail stretches for more than 27 miles and offers beautiful views of the Illinois River and Peoria's surrounding natural beauty.
• Peoria is home to one of the largest collections of sculptures by renowned artist and Peoria native, Preston Jackson. The sculptures are located throughout the city, including on the riverfront and on the Bradley University campus.
• The Peoria Civic Center is a hub for entertainment and cultural events, hosting everything from concerts and Broadway shows to sporting events and conventions.
• Peoria has a rich baseball history and was once home to one of the most successful minor league teams in history, the Peoria Chiefs. Today, the Chiefs are a Class A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals.
• The Caterpillar Visitors Center is a must-see attraction for fans of the iconic heavy equipment company. Visitors can explore exhibits, learn about Caterpillar's history and innovations and even operate simulators of Caterpillar equipment.
• Peoria is located on the Illinois River, making it a great spot for outdoor recreation. In addition to the Rock Island Greenway Trail, visitors can enjoy activities like boating, fishing and kayaking on the river. The Peoria Park District also operates several parks and nature preserves in the area, including Wildlife Prairie Park, which features bison, wolves and other native wildlife.
• The Peoria Historical Society offers tours of Peoria's historic homes, including the Pettengill-Morron House Museum, a Victorian mansion that was built in 1868 and has been restored to its original grandeur.
• The Peoria Zoo is a fun and educational attraction for visitors of all ages. The zoo is home to a wide range of animals, including big cats, primates and birds, as well as a petting zoo and a carousel.

What's your favorite thing about Peoria? Let us know below in the comments!

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.