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.
Artist Alex Carmona shares whats so special about the Peoria Area and what brought him back after years away.
Renae Kerrigan, a lifelong Peoria native gives a glimpse into the Peoria Riverfront Museum and Planetarium.
From a spark of passion to a trusted name, Ben Wilson's Journey is one of dedication and service.
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.
Aaron Selburg is the co-founder of The Modern Gentleman. The Modern Gentleman is a boutique retailer that delivers refined men's fashion with a contemporary flair.
Founded recently in 2024, this boutique brings a fresh yet timeless approach to men’s fashion in Central Illinois. The Modern Gentleman prides itself on delivering quality, craftsmanship, and personalized service—whether you're looking for a sharp custom suit or refined accessories to complete your look.
Reagan Leslie is a dedicated preservationist and interior designer who founded Leslie Tyler Design & Build, a renowned firm in Central Illinois that beautifully marries historic preservation with contemporary design.
Beyond her design practice, she launched the BlackHouse Seven initiative and sits on the Peoria Women’s Club Preservation Committee, signaling her leadership in fostering broader preservation efforts within the community.
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