If you’re a history buff visiting central Illinois or calling this region your home, you are probably well acquainted with the major museum stops. You carve out hours and read almost every word on the exhibit signs. But what about the roads less traveled? The pitt stops that sometimes don’t have a docent or sometimes even a sign. Explore these historic locations and experiences at your own pace this season!
Cathedral of St. Mary (Peoria) - Founded in 1878, this beautiful cathedral includes a royal blue night sky ceiling, carved depictions of the stations of the cross, and one of the largest collections of relics. Also located within a side wing of the cathedral is the tomb of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. Visitors can walk next door to the Spalding Pastoral Center and enjoy the museum dedicated to Sheen’s accomplishments within the faith.
Dirksen Congressional Center (Pekin) - Named for Everett McKinley Dirksen, this non-profit, non-partisan organization is focused on promoting research and scholarship to advance the public understanding of the U.S. Congress. They steward the private congressional records of multiple past politicians and provide tours for civic groups and student groups upon appointment.
Holocaust Memorial (Peoria) - Located outdoors on the Peoria Riverfront Museum campus, this memorial is the only one of its kind in the world. Inside the glass cases are 11 million buttons collected by school children - each button symbolizing a life lost during the Holocaust.
Peoria Sunday Morning League (Peoria) - If you are a baseball fan, the PSML is a must-see area tradition as it is the oldest amateur league in the nation. Nine teams battle it out all summer long vying for the Thome Trophy, named after local MLB player Jim Thome. Bring your own bag of peanuts and enjoy America’s pastime in person to complete your weekend in Peoria.
Peoria Women’s Club (Peoria) - Established in 1886 by 27 women, the charter members raised money for construction through establishing a stock company and selling stocks for $10 per share. The club and building were involved in voting rights efforts and worked to establish significant programs for the city's improvement. Visit the events page to see what public events are upcoming or request a private tour of the building including the massive renovation of their upstairs auditorium.
Springdale Cemetery (Peoria) - Started in 1854, this sprawling cemetery combines beautiful architecture with winding roads and towering trees. Many notable Peorian’s have found their final resting place here including William Hale, Peoria’s first mayor, Lydia Moss Bradley, founder of Bradley University, and Octave Chanute, co-designer of the Wright brothers’ aircraft.
Themed Bus Tour (Peoria) - Sit back and let the Peoria Historical Society take you on a journey through time. With themes like “Roll Out the Barrel”, “Warehouse Renaissance", and “World’s Most Beautiful Drive”, you are sure to learn something new. Tours run from June to October on Saturdays.
Metamora Courthouse (Metamora) - The two-story brick structure is one of two standing courthouses in the Eighth Judicial Circuit traveled by Lincoln. Visitors can take guided tours or view the rooms on their own. While in Metamora, be sure to dig into the history of the Underground Railroad and learn how this small town contributed in big ways.
Walk Where Lincoln Walked Route (Pekin) - It is no secret that Illinois is the Land of Lincoln - what may be lesser known is the exact spots in central Illinois that Lincoln spent time. Use this route constructed by Dale Kuntz, retired teacher, to better understand Lincoln’s impact on our area. From the home of one of Lincoln’s friends, to a church where he donated funds, to the office of law colleagues, history is never more alive than when you are standing where another stood.
Looking for more historic attractions? Check out these 21 Excellent Museums in Greater Peoria!
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