Kid-Friendly Weekend Getaway
Are you ready to create core memories for your family? Peoria is just the place to do it. With hands-on museum exhibits, one-of-a-kind parks, magical places to stay, and unforgettable treats, Peoria offers excitement and adventure that is guaranteed to delight the whole family. Dive into the fun and make the most of your time together with our ‘36 Hours in Peoria Kid-Friendly Weekend Getaway’ itinerary:
DAY ONE
EVENING | If you have kids that love planes, trains, and automobiles, staying at the Train Cabooses in Wildlife Prairie Park (3826 N Taylor Rd, Hanna City, IL 61536) is sure to impress. Located on the edge of the Bison and Elk Range, near Caboose Lake, the Train Cabooses are actual train cars that have been renovated and turned into rustic cabins that sleep 3-4. Each of the cars has a full bath, a bedroom with bunk beds, and a sleeper sofa. Be sure to have your camera rolling as you arrive to capture the excitement on their faces when they see the train for the first time. Embassy Suites (100 Conference Center Drive, East Peoria, IL 61611) is another great option for families looking for more traditional hotel comforts and amenities. Each of the two-room suites feature one King bed or two Double beds, plus a pull-out sofa in the adjoining room.
Unpack your bags and get settled in at your home away from home before getting back into the car for dinner. Pizza lovers in Peoria all agree that Sugar Wood-Fire Bistro (826 SW Adams, Peoria, IL 61602) offers some of the tastiest and most original pizzas in town. Pies are on the smaller side, so order a few to share--the Mushroom and Buffalo Chicken are favorites, but they also offer classics like Margherita and Pepperoni if you have picky eaters in the group. Don’t fill up before dessert, Sugar is aptly named and has a dessert case full of housemade treats.
DAY TWO
MORNING | Gebby’s Family Restaurant (726 E War Memorial Dr., Peoria Heights, IL 61616) is a classic way to kick off a Saturday morning in Peoria. With cinnamon rolls drenched in icing, fluffy omelets, crispy hashbrowns and plenty of breakfast combos to choose from, the whole family will find something they love on the menu. Fill your bellies and head over to Peoria Playhouse (2218 N Prospect Rd, Peoria, IL 61603).
Peoria Playhouse is a hands-on, interactive children's museum that is a hit with children of all ages (and parents,too). Exhibits include a water table, kinetic sand station, wind tubes, a train room, and an awesome maker space with real tools where older kids can learn how to use tools safely and build or create something totally new!
The Caterpillar Museum (110 SW Washington St, Peoria, IL 61602) is another great activity option especially for older kids and heavy equipment fans. Explore full-size equipment and try your hand at operating a digger using the Cat simulator with real Cat controls.
AFTERNOON | At lunchtime, head down to Kuchies on the Water (579 Wesley Rd, Creve Coeur, IL 61610). The waterfront restaurant is best known for their award-winning Bloody Mary and their outrageous Shipwreck milkshakes! Enjoy your meal out on the deck if the weather is nice and try some of their house specialties including the corn fritters, crab dip, and the bacon & beer pretzel.
Once you’re all sufficiently stuffed, head to Wildlife Prairie Park to burn off some of that sugar! There’s lots to do and see in the park but the Animal Walk is a must. The 1.5 mile trail takes you through a wooded path to see over 150 animals in their natural habitat. Keep your eye peeled for Bison, Elk, Black Bears, Foxes, Cougars, Bobcats, Crane, Eagles, Otters, Owls, Snakes, Turtles, Wolves, farm animals and more!
The fun doesn’t stop there though, from laser tag to geocaching, disc golf to fishing, there are dozens of ways to experience the wonders of the park. Choose your own adventure for the rest of the afternoon.
EVENING | The dining room at Jonah’s Seafood (2601 N Main St, East Peoria, IL 61611) is just fancy enough to feel like it’s a special occasion meal, but not too fancy that you’ll feel bothersome to other diners with the kids in tow. The large windows overlook the Illinois river and if you’re there at the right time, you’ll get to see a stunning sunset over the water. Try the coconut shrimp, crab cake, oysters, the Ahi tuna, or the spicy jambalaya, you won’t be disappointed. And, don’t forget to order the carrot cake with cream cheese frosting to share at the end of your meal!
DAY THREE
MORNING | Load up the car and head straight to the 50’s Diner (4700 N University St, Peoria, IL 61614) for breakfast. Play some tunes on the jukebox, find some souvenirs in the gift shop, and choose from hearty and delicious classic diner staples like corn beef hash, Denver omelets, waffles, and more.
Before you take the family home, make a quick stop at Young’s Popcorn Heaven (609 W Lake Ave, Peoria, IL 61614) for some road snacks and gifts. Gregory and JoAnn Young make over 50 flavors of gourmet popcorn to choose from. Whether you’re team sweet or team savory, you’ll be sure to find a favorite snack at Young’s.
As you drive away with a car full of happy memories and tasty treats, you'll find yourselves already planning your next adventure to Peoria.
