Peoria: Your Doorway to Discovery
Sometimes the best places aren’t the ones with the biggest headlines—they’re the ones with the warmest welcomes.
From its lively downtown to peaceful trails, unforgettable bites to buzzing events, this river city is full of surprises.
Peoria is your Doorway to Discovery.
Welcome to Peoria—where the Midwest meets momentum.
Nestled along the Illinois River, Peoria is a place that blends small-town charm with big-city energy, where every street corner holds a story and every local welcomes you like a friend. Whether you're here for a quick weekend getaway, a new adventure with the family, or to see what life outside the fast lane feels like, you’ll find more than you expected—and exactly what you needed.
This is your Doorway to Discovery.
It’s not just a campaign—it’s an invitation to explore Peoria through the eyes of the people who live, create, and thrive here. Step inside the lives of local makers, athletes, artists, and entrepreneurs. Hear their stories, visit their spaces, and let their passion guide your next unforgettable experience. Your next great discovery starts right here.
Real People. Real Stories. Real Peoria.
Step Through the Doorway and See Peoria Through Their Eyes
There’s no better way to discover a place than through the people who call it home. Meet the locals who bring Peoria to life—entrepreneurs, artists, athletes, and everyday community champions—each with a unique story and deep connection to this vibrant Midwest city. From heartfelt reflections to personal journeys, these short films invite you to step through Peoria’s orange doorway and explore what makes it special.
Watch their stories—and discover your own reason to visit.
Doug Cruitt, Executive Director of Distillery Labs, shares why Peoria’s authenticity and warmth turned it into a place he never wanted to leave.
Marcellus Sommerville, former pro athlete and entrepreneur, reflects on returning to his hometown and investing in its future.
Chip & Jennifer are more than just longtime Peorians—they're passionate professionals and proud residents who have called this community home for over four decades.
A Day in the Life, the Peoria Way
Meet the Makers, Dreamers, and Doers Behind the Doors
Peoria’s story isn’t just told—it’s lived.
Go beyond the interviews and into the daily rhythm of real locals who shape the city’s personality and pulse. In this behind-the-scenes video series, we spend a day alongside Peorians doing what they love—whether it’s baking sourdough at dawn, scooping smiles by the dozen, or welcoming visitors with open arms. These stories celebrate the craft, care, and community that make Peoria feel like home.
Walk the warm, welcoming space of Ardor Breads & Provisions, where the scent of fresh sourdough and a commitment to quality bring people together.
But Ardor is more than just a bakery—it’s a gathering place where old-world techniques meet modern community spirit. Every loaf, pastry, and pour-over coffee tells a story of craftsmanship, patience, and passion for doing things the right way. The team’s dedication to locally-sourced ingredients and intentional connections creates an experience that’s as nourishing for the soul as it is for the appetite.
Step through their door and into a space where time slows down, conversations flourish, and the simple joy of fresh-baked bread reminds us all what “home” tastes like.
Take a spin through Triple Dipple’s, a colorful sweet shop and hangout where joy, flavor, and family fun are always on the menu.
Best known for their rich, handcrafted cheesecakes, Triple Dipple’s has become a beloved destination where nostalgia meets indulgence. From classic flavors to bold, creative twists, every slice is made with care—and a whole lot of personality. With vibrant walls, local charm, and a welcoming vibe, it’s a place where new memories are made with every bite.
Step inside, pick your favorite cheesecake (or try a flight), and experience firsthand how small-town sweetness can leave a big impression.