From fall festivals and crisp apple treats to spooky haunts and colorful fall views, Peoria shines brightest in autumn.
FALL FESTIVALS
There is plenty of food and entertainment for all ages at the Pekin Marigold Festival (September 3-7). Eat all the pumpkin treats your heart desires at the Morton Pumpkin Festival (September 10-13). Oktoberfest (September 19-21) brings the flavor and fun of Munich to the Peoria Riverfront. Shop flea markets throughout Fulton County during the two weekends (October 4-5 and 11-12) of the Spoon River Drive. For a full list, read about All of Greater Peoria Festivals.
FRESH APPLE TREATS
Apples thrive in the Central Illinois climate and soil. You’ll taste the love put into the cider made by the family behind Christ Orchard. For most locals, it doesn’t feel like fall until you’ve had an apple cider donut, or a dozen, from Tanners Orchard. Once you’ve tasted Minonk Chocolate Company’s candy apples that are only made during the fall apple harvest, you may never eat them out of season again.
SPOOKY LOCATIONS
Sure you’ve visited haunted houses, but what about truly haunted locations? Aura Haunted House is located at a former psychiatric hospital. Dating back to 1857, the legends of Springdale Cemetery might keep you up at night; the well-known “Witches Circle” is said to be popular for satanic rituals. Even the Peoria Public Library is said to be built on cursed ground - you might feel a cold draft or see a ghost among the books.
SEASONAL SIPS
Greater Peoria has a multitude of local coffee shops serving up seasonal sips. The Campfire Cold Brew at one of Eli’s Coffee Shops is the perfect way to dip your toe into fall flavors. Leaves ‘n Beans is known for their wide variety of flavors including pumpkin, chai, banana bread, sticky bun and more. Many local breweries like Bust’d, Industry and Rhodell have all the flavors of Oktoberfest on tap.
COLORFUL VIEWS
There are many beautiful outdoor spaces to watch the leaves turn colors. Grandview Drive and Park makes for a perfect scenic drive or stroll. Walk among the native oak-hickory woodland at Sand Ridge State Forest - Illinois’ largest state forest.
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