Looking for fun that doesn’t stretch the budget? Greater Peoria is packed with free things to do, from scenic parks and public art to local history, libraries, and riverfront experiences. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a low-key afternoon, or a weekend adventure, these free activities make it easy to explore more of Peoria without spending much.

SPEND TIME OUTDOORS

A Perfect Picnic – The Peoria area is home to many beautiful parks. Pack a picnic at home and venture out to claim a spot in Robinson Park, Detweiller Park, Bradley Park, or one of the other dozens of parks in the area. For more picnic ideas, click here!

Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge​ – Great for wildlife viewing, trails, and scenic wandering. The preserve includes boardwalks, observation areas, and visitor-use facilities. 

Hit the Trails​ – Hiking is good for the soul and easy on the wallet. Spend time on the trails at Forest Park Nature Center, where scenic paths and peaceful wooded views make it easy to unplug and explore.

Ride Like the Wind​ – Peoria Park District offers Bicycle Safety Town, a place where kids can safely take their bikes to the streets! Pack up the kids and their biking gear and head over to burn some energy and ride like the wind, free of charge. 

Stroll the RiverFront Market​ – A Saturday morning at the Peoria RiverFront Market is a fun way to soak in the atmosphere, enjoy live entertainment, and browse local vendors along the riverfront. Buying something is optional, but the experience itself is free and makes for a great seasonal outing. The 2026 market runs Saturdays from May 23 through September 26.

Rock Island Trail State Park – Stretch your legs or hop on a bike and explore one of most scenic paved trails. The Rock Island Greenway runs from Alta to the Riverfront and offers a peaceful route through parks, tree-lined stretches, and neighborhoods, making it a great free option for a walk, run, or ride.

GET ARTSY

Enjoy a Gallery – Attend an art show or view an art gallery at staples of the Peoria art community like the Peoria Art Guild and The Contemporary Art Center of Peoria, where free events are offered to art enthusiasts regularly. 

First Fridays – Looking for a free way to experience local art, culture, and small businesses? First Fridays and similar community events across the region offer a fun excuse to get out and explore.

Sculpture Walk – The Peoria Art Guild organizes a Sculpture Walk each year to support artists and sculptors from all over the country. Begin at the Peoria Riverfront Museum and follow the map to explore each of the nine sculptures along the streets of downtown Peoria. 

LEARN ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY

Take a Drive – See the sights of historic Grandview Drive, a two and a half mile stretch of breathtaking landscapes and beautifully crafted houses. Explore what Theodore Roosevelt once called “the world’s most beautiful drive.”

Visit Historical Sights – Check out the Peoria Historical Society to find historical sights throughout the community, and explore significant locations on your own, or with a guided tour when the budget allows, to deepen your understanding of the history of our community.

Head to the Library – The Peoria Public Library is home to thousands of books across five branches located throughout the Peoria area. The library offers a welcoming place for all ages to learn and explore, as well as several free events and clubs.

Take a Trip to the Museum – The Peoria Riverfront Museum regularly offers free opportunities to visit, including its Access for All days held every second Sunday. Just next door, the Peoria Holocaust Memorial is open 24/7 and offers a powerful outdoor experience along the riverfront.