Anyone who has ever entertained houseguests has run into that moment when you’ve caught up on the latest news and gossip and admired how much the children have grown….and then there’s that dreaded silence and debate on what to do next….
Luckily, the Greater Peoria Area has no shortage of things to do, eat, and see. This list is composed of activities to try and places to explore with out-of-town guests. There's something for everyone, guaranteed to impress and create lasting memories.
Stay warm with these indoor activities
Catch a movie at the historic Elmwood Palace Theatre or the Majestic Theatre of Canton
Check out these 23 ways to unleash your creativity in the Peoria area
Enjoy an afternoon sluice experience where you can discover your own treasures at Rough and Tumbled Rocks in Wyoming
Take in some live music, playing on any given day in our area
Check out one of our 21 Excellent Museums in Greater Peoria
Have some 'spare' time? Give bowling a try! A complete list of bowing alleys in Greater Peoria
Try your luck at the Par-A-Dice Casino in East Peoria
For the adventurous type
Try indoor rock climbing at First Ascent Climbing in Peoria
Check your aim with axe throwing or attempt an escape room at Gone Social in Peoria
Release some energy at Elevate Trampoline Park in East Peoria or Peoria
Accept a mission at Galaxy Laser Tag in Peoria or East Peoria or Plaza Lanes in Washington
Feel the rush at Pekin Paintball Park in Pekin, Area 52 Paintball in Mackinaw, Chilli Paintball in Chillicothe
Enjoy a friendly-competitive game night at 8 Bit Arcade Bar and grab a round of drinks while enjoying endless free retro arcade games
Stop and smell the rosé at one of our many wineries and breweries. Events, tastings, and tours are available. Check out the full list here
Feed the otters or take a selfie with the bison at Wildlife Prairie Park in Hanna City
Catch a Peoria Rivermen’s game at the Civic Center; a Bradley University Men’s or Women’s Basketball home game, or a Peoria Chiefs game at Dozer Park. Don’t forget to cheer on the Flying Carps at a Peoria City USL2 Soccer game at Shea Stadium
Check out the performances at the many local theaters. In East Peoria there is the Eastlight Theatre + Illinois Central College Performing Arts Center. In Peoria, Corn Stock Theatre, Jukebox Comedy Club, Peoria Ballet, Peoria Civic Center, Peoria Players Theatre, and Peoria Symphony Orchestra. Don't forget The Barn III in Goodfield.
Whether it be ice or roller, choose your skate and check out these rinks: Morton Roller Rink, Skateland Canton, Owens Center in Peoria, or Veterans Memorial Arena in Pekin.
Check out these Greater Peoria events—the seasonal calendar is packed. Bookmark our Calendar of Events. It's the largest collection of activities in the region!