As we all know the first people to inhabit any part of this country were the Native American Indians. The same is true of this city in Illinois. Peoria was first constructed as a fort. The first newcomers to come to this land were French settlers in 1680. The original fort built there was named Fort Crevecour but it was burned down. In 1813 Fort Clark was built. It wasn’t until 1825, in Illinois, Peoria became an official city. The name of this city has a Native American origin meaning traveling fire or prairie fire. The city’s name is not the only remembrance left of its once Native American inhabitants. There are many Indian burial grounds to be found in this proud city. Among the archeological finds in this area are artifacts dating back to 10,000 BC. These artifacts are displayed to represent a highly organized and ritualistic people who lived their lives in tune with nature. This is one city that has not forgotten to represent its first inhabitants.


The Native American civilization is not the only culture represented in the museums located in Peoria. Like any riverfront city in Illinois, Peoria is filled with people from all types of ethnic and cultural backgrounds. The African American Museum Hall of Fame is also located in this diversified city. This museum and its two exhibition galleries are located in a 19th century warehouse. Along with the exhibits you can find there, you will also encounter 20 artists working on location as well as artist workshops and classes offered to visitors at the center.


Another historic sight located in this city is The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil War Memorial. This memorial is commonly referred to as “The Defense of The Flag” War Memorial as the artist, Fritz Triebel who created it, called it. Dedicated in 1899 this memorial features bronze statues portraying soldiers in battle, raising the American flag. The statues were cast in Italy and are surrounded by stone benches for visitor to enjoy the scenery. When looking for a little piece of history in Illinois, Peoria certainly has something to offer.


If you are interested in the arts, either musical or visual you can find these things in Peoria as well. Civic Center Arena is a great place to catch a concert or athletic event. This Arena was built in 1982 and offers 12000 seats and excellent acoustics as well as art and other exhibitions. Lakeview Museum of Arts and Science is another site worth visiting. Because of this museum the world’s largest model of the Solar System in located in Illinois. Peoria is home to this amazing museum, which includes a folk art gallery and planetarium featuring 15,000 art and science items. There is also a children’s discovery center where they can learn from hands on experience.


Another great place to take the children is the Glen Oak Zoo. It prides itself on its own hands on activity and discovery area. This zoo, which was built in the 1930’s, is open all year round. It is made up of seven acres of land. You and your children can spend the day viewing all the exotic animals. There are over 150 species of animals from around the world located here. Among these animals are several endangered species that your child will be able to appreciate for their uniqueness.


Don’t forget that Peoria is located on the Illinois River as well. This city offers beautiful and scenic riverfront experience. Along the lovely riverfront walkways you can find numerous things to do and see including a public arena and gorgeous water fountains, and if you’d like you even can take in a paddle wheel boat ride. There are performance stages if you are interested in taking in a play or concert as well as plenty of restaurants, boutiques, shops and art galleries. For a more romantic view of the riverfront you can always choose to take a horse drawn carriage ride.


If you are considering visiting Peoria, IL, I recommend getting a hotel room so that you have time to really enjoy what this city has to offer. There are at least 20 Peoria, Illinois hotels to choose from. They range in price form $50 to over $150 per night. It’s hard not to choose a hotel based on its price with ranges such as these, but before you decide consider a few things. Look into where the hotels are located and where you plan to visit. Also look at how the hotel is rated and what it has to offer for you and your family. This is definitely a city I would consider taking a trip to.