Family Things to Do in Peoria, IL

There’s no shortage of family-fun in Peoria! Whether you’re looking for somewhere to go on a rainy day or you want to get out, take the doors off your Wrangler, and enjoy the beautiful weather when it’s here, Sam Leman Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Peoria is happy to share some of our favorites with you. Without further ado, explore some of the best things to do in Peoria, IL below.

Wildlife Prairie Park

Kids and adults alike will love spending the day at the Wildlife Prairie Park. Starting off with the animal trails, you’ll be able to view animals that are native to the Midwest in their natural habitat, including fox, otters, turtles, bison, and even black bears and bobcats! There’s also a disc golf course at the park, and you’re welcome to bring your mountain bike to their recreation park. In the winter, your kids will have the time of their lives at the sledding hill.

Luthy Botanical Garden

At the George L. Luthy Memorial Botanical Garden, beautiful, lush foliage spans 4.5 acres of gardens and conservatory. It has been a staple in Peoria since 1951, and your kids will love learning about different types of plants and their native habitats. Attend a horticulture presentation to learn about gardening from the professionals, and transport yourself to other parts of the world in the Tropical Conservatory.

The Peoria PlayHouse

Peoria PlayHouse is the local children’s museum, offering kids the chance to learn about agriculture in the Family Farm, where they’ll pick fruits and veggies and milk a cow. Elsewhere, they can imagine themselves sailing along the Illinois River as they play with gently flowing water and drive boats downstream.

Rock Island Trail State Park

Encourage your family to get outside and appreciate all that Peoria has to offer, no matter the season. You can spend the entire day biking or hiking on this 26-mile trail, and follow it up with a family picnic or a night of camping. In the winter, you’re welcome to bring snowmobiles and cross country skis. Visit at the right time of year and you can see beautiful Virginia bluebells in bloom, and stop in the Wyoming Depot to check out the railroad museum and visitor center.

Caterpillar Visitors Center

At the Caterpillar Visitors Center, your experience will begin with a virtual ride in the bed of a towering two-and-a-half story Cat 797F Mining Truck. Learn about the history of Caterpillar, get a close-up look at antique equipment, and put your imagination to work as you design your own Caterpillar machine and virtually operate the equipment used by professionals.

Spend the Day Helping Others

It’s never too early to show your children how great it feels to give back to their community. There are plenty of volunteer opportunities in Peoria, IL where supervised children can make a difference, such as spending the day socializing with the animals in need at PAWS of Peoria, IL.