April showers bring May flowers! As the rain begins to clear and the temperature starts to rise, take advantage of the many adventures and locations to explore during one of Greater Peoria’s most beautiful seasons: springtime.
Bushwhacker {Peoria} // Now that the weather is warmer, it’s time to dust off your bike and hiking boots! Stop in and browse their huge selection of bikes, kayaks, and spring footwear and apparel. As an added bonus, the entrance to the Rock Island Greenway is right next door!
Disc Golf at Northwood Park {Morton} // Ranked one of the best disc golf courses in the state, this renown 18-hole course has a wide variety of holes including woods, orchard style holes, open shots, and plenty of elevation changes. Grab a friend and get out there!
Dozer Park {Peoria} // Take me out to the ballgame! Dozer Park, home to the Peoria Chiefs, who have a full spring schedule, packed with exciting games running until mid September. Get ready to enjoy all your favorite ballpark snacks and cheer on your favorite team with fun promotions throughout the season.
Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge {Lewistown} // This beautiful destination has many bird watching platforms as well as recreational activities including hunting, fishing and hiking. Enjoy the abundant communities of wildlife, fish and plants as well as wetlands, lakes, prairies, forests and bluffs.
Fon du Lac Farm Park {East Peoria} // Spring is an exciting time to visit the farm—there are always new baby animals to meet. Enclosed within six acres of Neumann Park, Farm Park includes a country kitchen museum, playgrounds, a silo slide, gift shop, concession stand, and (of course) an opportunity to meet, pet and feed the animals, offering children a unique glimpse of what 1920’s farm life was like on a Central Illinois farm.
Forest Park Nature Center {Peoria Heights} // Enjoy seven miles of hiking trails, featuring prairie openings and forested woodlands. Offering guided hiking tours and educational classes for all ages, you can work towards their 100 Mile Club. Don’t forget to stop into the Trailhead Nature Store for all sorts of outdoor treasures, from books to hiking equipment.
Golf in Greater Peoria {Article} // Get into the swing of things with these 26 ‘tee‘-rific golf courses in Greater Peoria, including several hidden gems that are occasionally overlooked given their proximity but are well worth the short drive.
Holland’s Mercantile {Washington} // Grab a mixed bag of colorful spring candies at this old school candy shop then stroll through the Washington Square. There are countless shops to pop into whether you’re looking for home decor, clothing, antiques, or gifts.
Luthy Botanical Garden {Peoria} // Located within Glen Oak Park, this beautiful spot features over five acres of gardens and a tropical conservatory. You will be amazed by the beauty of various flowers from around the globe, the display of spring blooming bulbs and the range of vibrant colors. Be sure to check their event calendar for speciality flower shows and classes!
Mineral Springs Park {Pekin} // Mineral Springs Park should be your next outdoor springtime destination! Whether you decide to relax under the pavilion, play a game of mini-golf, or take a paddle boat ride on the lagoon, you’re sure to enjoy all the 200 acres has to offer.
Peoria Riverfront Museum {Peoria} // This Peoria gem is the only multidisciplinary museum of its kind in the nation! The Peoria Riverfront Museum uses art, science, history, and achievement to inspire lifelong learning. Featuring various exhibits, planetarium shows, and movies in the Giant Screen Theater each day, the options are endless!
Peoria Zoo {Peoria} // Soak up the sunshine as you visit your favorite animals! Stroll along the boardwalk and say hi to the giraffes and lions in Africa! exhibit. Come eye to eye with an Emu as you walk with the wallabies through the Australian Walk-About. Make sure you don’t miss their daily presentations and stop by the Zambezi River Lodge for a bite to eat.
Picket Fence Foundation {Chillicothe} // Choose from a huge variety of flowers and plants, and get some spring-time shopping done in their Ability Marketplace where you’ll find beautiful products made by children & adults with disabilities from around the country!
Relax on One of These Perfect Patios {Article} // What better way to spend time outside than enjoying a meal al fresco? Breathe deep at these 15 patios in the greater Peoria area with friends or alone with a book.
Sculpture Walk {Peoria} // Downtown Peoria has a wealth of outdoor art to offer! The Peoria Sculpture Walk is an experience of learning about each art piece and its artist while getting fresh air. Free docent tours take place every Saturday morning at 10am.
Stop & Smell the Rosé at a Local Winery {Article} // Spring is the perfect time to explore central Illinois wineries. From horse-drawn carriages to endless acres of captivating views, these wineries will keep you coming back for more!
Stroll through Twigs Market {Tremont} // Open seasonally in May and June, Twigs Market is a rural Illinois gem. Visit the bunnies, goats, and pigs while taking in the local crafted goods and antiques that line the barn walls. A unique find is just around the corner!
Wildlife Prairie Park {Hanna City} // Make Wildlife Prairie Park your go-to destination this spring for outdoor adventuring. Home to 60 different species, all ages will love the beautiful nature views and discovering over 150 animals. With daily programs offered, every visit to Wildlife Prairie Park is full of excitement.
