Peoria Weekend Getaway: Your 48-Hour Guide to the Perfect Fall Escape

Autumn in the Midwest is such a special time of year. The sun may still be shining bright, but as the summer comes to an end, the chill of fall starts to peek its head through the clouds. Time and time again,  I yearn to wrap myself in flannel while cradling a hot cider, and I seek out a place to see the leaves as they change from green to the colors of a roaring fire. This year, I went on a Peoria weekend getaway – Peoria is a city on the Illinois River in Central Illinois that is know for its outdoor activities, the fine arts, whiskey, its comedians, and being the “pulse” of the USA.  Peoria is also known for Grandview Drive, and numerous historical sights, including the Marriott Pere Marquette Hotel that was built in the Roaring 20’s and continues to shine. Keep reading to learn about how to spend 48 hours in Peoria, and why it’s the perfect fall getaway.

Getting to Peoria IL

Peoria is located in Central Illinois. You can drive, take the Amtrak Train, or take a bus. It took me about 3 hours by car, but I would seriously consider a train ride next time. Trains are so relaxing —a great start to any Peoria holiday weekend!

The City of Peoria 

Located on the Illinois River, Peoria was the first settlement in Illinois, and is now the 8th largest city in the state. The city “has a rich history of making things,” and it “is the home to numerous inventions, including “the first gasoline-powered automobile, invented by Charles and Frank Duryea, and the first diesel-powered engine, which was invented at Caterpillar.”  

Peoria is equidistant between Chicago and St. Louis, and it is said that Al Capone, the infamous Chicago gangster would spend time in Peoria while in between Chicago and St. Louis to fill up the gas tank of his car. 

However, He may have been there for another reason as well. You see, Peoria was the Whiskey capital of the world from 1837-1919 when Prohibition went into effect. Today, you can still find numerous distilleries in Peoria keeping traditions alive. Perfect for a Peoria getaway with friends if you ask me.

Luxury in Peoria | Peoria Weekend Getaway

Keep reading to hear about the luxurious Hotel that many US Presidents and notable figures have stayed at over the years- like John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan, Bob Hope, and Tony Bennet- to name a few.  

Friday: 48 hours in Peoria the perfect fall weekend getaway

I was in Peoria for my friend Marisa and Aleks’s wedding, and the festivities were being held at 2 historical landmarks. The wedding ceremony and reception were being held at Soderstrom Castle- which was built in 1930. The bride and groom, and all of the guests would also be staying at the Marriott Pere Marquette which had its grand opening in 1927. Both of these landmarks have a rich history and many stories to tell! 

Being the explorer that I am, I decided to extend my stay beyond the wedding to see all that Peoria has to offer. And as I did my research, I realized that Peoria was the perfect place to spend a long weekend. Especially in the fall! If you’re looking for Peoria vacation ideas or tips, you’ve come to the right place.

The Peoria Marriott Pere Marquette

I arrived in Peoria around 4:30pm on Friday evening and made my way to the Marriott Pere Marquette. Built at a time when luxury and hospitality were not around every corner, the Pere Marquette had what people were looking for, and they welcomed 16,000 guests on opening night in 1927.  

The Pere Marquette recently underwent extensive renovations that I was excited to experience! Plus, pictures online showed a grand double staircase with extraordinary chandeliers that I wanted to see with my own eyes. I was already starting to imagine myself at one of their storied, and quite lavish parties wearing a beautiful ball gown.

The Entrance

As I pulled up, I realized that there were two entrances to the hotel. One for the grand ballroom, and then the main entrance, which I recommend in order to unload your luggage. So I pulled up to the entrance on Main Street in Peoria, and Angel was there to greet me and help me with my luggage.

» The parking garage has numerous levels of parking, easily accessible, and has a daily charge of $15 that can be paid at checkout.

Check-in at the Marriott Pere Marquette

I parked my car and made my way to the lobby. It was bright and airy with modern light fixtures above the front desk with cascading circular crystals that reminded me of champagne bubbles! Sometimes I really do have a one track mind. This weekend was going to be so celebratory! I couldn’t wait to raise a glass with the happy couple during my Peoria weekend getaway. But I digress. I loved to see a modern twist in a hotel that was truly standing the test of time.

After checking in, Angel helped me upstairs to my room. Normally I don’t need help with my luggage but I had a huge dress that I’d be wearing the next day for the wedding that was designed by Nathalie Loma- a Chicago designer who specializes in all things wedding. The dress was absolutely precious cargo.

The Concierge Service

We made our way up to the 11th floor on one of 3 elevators. There are 14 stories and 286 rooms at the Marriott Pere Marquette, and the 11th floor also has the concierge service which has snacks and drinks and an area to relax for Marriott Elite Members. 

As we approached my home for the next 2 days, I also met Mazin, one of the managers at the Pere Marquette, who wanted to welcome me to the hotel. In a large hotel like the Marriott Pere Marquette, I really appreciate knowing that the staff still takes a hands-on approach to their hospitality and customer service.

My Suite at the Marriott Pere Marquette

I opened the door to find a beautiful suite! There was a very spacious living room a small hall with a closet, and then through the door on the right there was another closet, the bathroom, and 2 Queen Beds. The beds were calling my name and looking so plush with their crisp white bedding and numerous pillows. I loved the light fixtures between the beds as well- the frosty white globes with brass details were just some of the classic, yet updated accents throughout the hotel. 

The natural lighting in the room was absolutely fantastic, with large windows along the outer wall in both rooms, and the decor of the hotel paid homage to their history through its design.

Classic American with Modern Details

The materials of the couch and sitting chair were luxurious and comfortable with different shades of grey, browns, and splashes of berry. I especially enjoyed the Azure blue walls with white details, and the animal paintings that had such a classic Midwestern feel while showing a playful side.  

A Warm Welcome | Peoria Weekend Getaway

Then my eyes went to the coffee table. There I found a display of welcome gifts just for me. A bottle of red wine, a generous charcuterie board that we would enjoy throughout our weekend, and another board with chocolate covered strawberries. Yum!

And the finishing touch? A note welcoming us to the Marriott Pere Marquette for our Peoria weekend getaway. I was so touched and equally impressed. Thanks again to Rebecca Spillman and the staff at the Pere Marquette for such a thoughtful and delicious gift!

In-Room Dining

Next, I unpacked my things- which I love to do at a hotel. It makes me feel settled as I start any holiday.  Then I curled up on the couch, poured myself a glass of wine, and enjoyed the treats! It was the perfect way to recharge after a long journey. It was the perfect way to recharge after a long journey and kick off my Peoria weekend getaway.

» The Marriott Pere Marquette has in-room dining from 6:00am-11:00pm everyday.

Friday night in Peoria | Weekend Getaway

It was time to explore the city! So I made my way downstairs to inquire about whether I should walk, or take a cab to my destination. I love walking in a new city, but it was dark out, and I was walking alone after all. I was told that walking would be safe, and a cab on the way home would be best. 

A Memorable Tour filled with Peoria Tips

I stayed and chatted with the staff for a few minutes, and that’s when they introduced me to Avery.  Avery is a Peoria native who was down on his luck, but a trusted friend to the hotel who was a wealth of information and stories about the city he grew up in. They suggested that Avery could walk me to Thyme Restaurant to show me the city- and so he did!

As Avery and I started walking, the stories and history of Peoria began. We walked past the Peoria Courthouse where Lincoln gave his Peoria speech that began his journey to the presidency. And as we walked down Main St I could start to see the Illinois River and the Bridge illuminated in lights as Avery and I chatted about all that makes Peoria special.

The Whiskey Capital of the World

We then walked down Washington Street- home to the Sculpture Walk of Peoria, and Avery told me that Peoria used to be the Whiskey capital of the world, and that during prohibition, the Peoria water tower secretly housed Whiskey!

Positivity through Hardship

What a pleasure to meet Avery and learn about Peoria through his eyes. And while I discovered Peoria, he also told me his own story that left me heartbroken and also inspired by his good nature and positivity. We said our goodbyes, and I wished him well and felt so lucky to be given an unofficial tour from this kind and genuine man without a home who always knew that Peoria, was the home of his heart and soul. 

Thyme Restaurant

I walked into Thyme restaurant feeling even lighter than I did when I arrived, and sat at the bar. I was definitely in the mood to try new things on my Peoria weekend getaway. So after noticing a Rhubarb gin on the menu, I decided to ask for a twist on my favorite cocktail: A French 75 with Rhubarb Gin.  

A French 75 with a Twist

I sure love a French 75 because everyone makes them differently- so every first sip is a surprise! And while this cocktail was not on the menu, the rhubarb, lemon and simple syrup topped off with bubbles was a deliciously tart treat that I would gladly have again and again.

While there, I chatted up the bartender Mackenzie, and Frankie Joe, who had just finished her shift. I was still quite full from the fruit, meat, and cheeses from my hotel room, so I asked them about their favorite things on the menu.

Did you say bacon?

Next time, I will have to try the chicken sandwich- which I’ve been told you should definitely order as is because the pimento spread is fantastic. Mackenzie also raved about the chicken marsala, and they both agreed that the green beans, which are made with bacon, are absolutely incredible. Lord, how I wish I had room for it! I will need to go back. Many thanks to Zach for the recommendation.

Peoria Restaurants and Bars

Other restaurants that I would like to try in Peoria include Ardor Bread and Provisions, Slow Hand Craft BBQ, Fish House, Alexander’s Steakhouse, One World, Jimador, and Okinawa Hibachi Sushi Ramen. Exploring these eateries would make your Peoria weekend getaway even more delightful.

Other bars I would like to try in Peoria include Black Band Distillery, Obed and Isaac’s Microbrewery, Kelleher’s Irish Pub, and Martinis on Water Street.

Many thanks for Mackenzie and Frankie for the conversation- and excellent recommendations. The locals always know best!

♥ Talking to locals and asking questions is the best way to meet new people and get the best tips for your adventure. Read more in my article: 16 Tips for Solo Travel

Getting around

Ubers were available in downtown Peoria, but they can take awhile so plan ahead! Also, if you are a walker like me, make sure to ask which streets are best to walk when it’s dark out. When you are in a city, it’s always important to have your head on a swivel. And just remember that there are definitely some streets that are better to walk than others whether you are in New York, London, Paris– or Peoria. Safety first during your Peoria weekend getaway.

From there, I made my way back to the hotel where the bar was still pretty lively, but I made my way upstairs to the Bridal Suite.

The Bridal Suite at the Pere Marquette

You can tell that the Marriott Pere Marquette hosts weddings often because the bridal suite had a classically romantic vibe. It really was perfect for a bride and groom on their special day. The suite was also well equipped for lots of guests coming in and out to help with preparations- and celebrations!

There was a living room that spilled into the dining room with a very long dining table. To the left and through a door was a kitchen area, and straight ahead a bedroom. Off of the bedroom there was also a small room especially for the bride equipped with a beautiful vanity mirror and desk area- perfect for all of the beauty prep that goes in to the wedding day.

Marisa and I went over the script one last time before saying our good nights to make sure we got all of our beauty sleep for her fairytale wedding the next day at Soderstrom Castle. 

My Bed

I made my way back to the room where I washed the day off then disappeared into my pillow top bed. I just love the beds at the Marriott! They never disappoint, and this one felt extra plush. The Pillows also had varying firmness which is always welcome for my tired head.  

The hotel left a spritz for my pillow that was aromatic and was made to help me sleep better. One spritz in the air to test led to numerous spritzes on my pillow. I really loved this room! It was very serene, and quite easy to find a relaxed state of mind before bed. I sighed and smiled as I stretched, hugged my pillow, and took one last inhale of the calming scent before falling fast asleep. 

Saturday: 48 hours in Peoria the perfect fall getaway

I woke up feeling well rested, and bright eyed and bushy tailed as they say. The sun was shining, and the view of the Murray Baker Bridge and the Illinois river was really lovely. It was going to be a beautiful day in Peoria! 

The bathroom

I took a shower and enjoyed more of the complementary This Works products that were in the shower.  They are very aromatic, and the eucalyptus was so fresh. The bathroom also had excellent counter space, and I am happy to report that the lighting was superb! I was able to see myself so clearly with zero shadows. This was especially helpful on a day when I was doing my own makeup for a lot of wedding photos.  

The History of Table 19

I made my way down to breakfast. The breakfast buffet is located on the first floor at the Table 19 restaurant- formerly Carnegie’s back in the day. The current restaurant is named for the table that dignitaries, the famous, and the infamous used to dine at.  

The actual Table number 19 is quite private, and in its own semi enclosed space in the restuarant. I can only imagine the conversations and secret dealings that went on there. Oh to be the fly on the wall during a historic Peoria weekend getaway!  

The Breakfast Buffet

I waited to be seated before finding my way to the coffee and the buffet. Breakfast at the Marriott never disappoints and the coffee was particularly delicious! I was happy to hear that they brew coffee from Starbucks. 

The first morning I enjoyed scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, and fresh fruit. They had plenty more to choose from, including a station of bagels, bread and muffins, lox and capers, meats and cheeses, Juices, oatmeal, cereal, and omelettes made to order.  

Starbucks Coffee

After breakfast, Sharyn made me a Starbucks coffee to go, which I greatly appreciated, and we were on our way. Soderstrom Castle, located on Grandview drive, was about 10 minutes away from the hotel.  

Grandview Drive 

I read that in 1910 Teddy Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, visited Peoria. While there, he said that Grandview Drive was “the world’s most beautiful drive.” So of course I had to see it with my own eyes during my Peoria weekend getaway. I knew it was going to be picturesque, but I was having a hard time picturing it in my mind. 

As we made a quick right onto Grandview Drive, I realized very quickly that a few photos on the Internet and looking at a map did not even come close to doing it justice. This two-lane long and gently winding road was encased with trees, and the leaves were beginning to change their colors, and slowly sashay to the ground.  

Magical Moments

This made for a magical moment that I did not expect. The beauty of nature was on full display, and even though all of the leaves had not transformed quite yet, change was in the air. I felt lucky that I was catching the first movement of this beautiful symphony that was about to stun the crowd with a colorful and explosive fanfare.   

Castle Soderstrom

We pulled into one of the cobblestone driveways of the castle and were greeted by 2 Lions on either side of the drive. I stepped out of the car and allowed myself a moment to take it all in. The castle was stunning. What a place to get married!

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A Fairytale Wedding at Soderstrom Castle | Peoria Weekend Getaway

Click here to read about the wedding, the History of Castle Soderstrom, and the public events that are held there. I will also tell you how you can schedule your own private event, or how you can schedule a photoshoot of your own on the Castle Grounds.- Article coming soon!

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On a mission to find the Grand Staircase

After the wedding, we made our way back to the hotel where I sought out the grand staircase, and the chandeliers that had been occupying my thoughts ever since I saw a picture online. We sought out the guidance of “Sir” Aaron- one of the managers at the Marriott Pere Marquette. He took us on a little tour as we searched for the main event.  

He first took us to the separate entrance for the Grand Ballroom off of Madison Avenue. Here we found an impressive modern chandelier towering over the space. And while it was quite remarkable, it was only the opening act to what we saw next.

The Cotillion Room

As we walked into the Cotillion Room, I looked up to find the the chandeliers and the Grand Staircase that I had waited so long to see with my own eyes. The chandeliers twinkled high above us, just as they had done for almost a century. The Cotillion Room transported me back to the roaring 20’s and exuded luxury while also feeling quite modern.

The Artist George Matthews Harding

My eyes continued to make their way around the room, and there. High above the elevators on the far wall was a mural painted by the Peoria artist George Matthews Harding for the original Pere Marquette Hotel. I love the way the hotel hangs onto its history while also exuding a modern twist that brings them roaring into today’s world. 

Storytime:

While I admired my surroundings and tried to count the chandeliers, Sir Aaron told us stories of how the hotel had welcomed many famous guests over the years, and how there was a mysterious handprint on the ceiling of the bridal suite, which made my eyebrow raise, but made me want to hear more! 

An Infamous Guest

One of his stories was about the most infamous guest of all- Al Capone. It seems that Mr. Capone would not only dine at Carnegie’s Table 19, but he would also stay at the Pere Marquette. And his suite of choice was the Presidential Suite.  

According to Aaron there is a dumb waiter in the Suite that was used to smuggle alcohol up and down and out of sight. There are other secrets that he left behind as well which is thrilling! But either way, I hear the Presidential Suite is the epitome of sophistication and luxury- especially after the most recent renovation in 2022. It would be so much fun to stay in that 2 bedroom suite on my next visit.   

What would you do?

I am such a sucker for history, and knowing all about the people that came before me. Their stories are fascinating, and I can’t help but wonder what those times were like in the roaring 20s when luxury and hospitality were a rarity and thriving, yet prohibition was in full swing. It makes me wonder if I would’ve followed the rules? Or been a rule breaker.

Thankfully, I will never know the answer to that question. So instead, I will ponder what the world would would be like without the beer, wine and liquor industry as we know it- with a glass of wine. Cheers friends!

The Grand Staircase

But back to The Grand Staircase. The Grand Staircase of the Pere Marquette was located in between two beautiful ballrooms where the hotel hosts weddings and events every weekend. And with Chandeliers hanging high above- it really sparkled and made for a dramatic backdrop.

» So whether you are a bride, the officiant, or someone staying at the hotel that is in search of a memorable photograph – this is by far my favorite picture from this weekend in Peoria

The Dress of my Dreams

Many thanks to Nathalie Loma for creating my beautiful dress, and all of the dresses that were worn by the wedding party as well. She just KNOWS how to accentuate the best parts of my body while also making my least favorite parts look amazing as well.  

The Perfect Photograph

And of course- many thanks to the incredibly talented and kind Meiling Jin for taking the photo of me on the staircase and always making me feel at ease when I’m in front of her camera. She is an incredible wedding and event photographer with a knack for taking stunning photos of herself as well. 

Sunday: 48 hours in Peoria the perfect fall getaway

On Sunday, our goal was to explore more of what Peoria had to offer. Our day would be all about seeking out fall foliage – and great views. I had done my research ahead of time and knew that there was a lot to see! I was excited to get the day started on our Peoria weekend getaway.

Breakfast

We started with breakfast at table 19. Coffee was very necessary after the day that we had at Marisa and Aleks’s wedding. I was grateful for the delicious coffee that they served up along with the scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, home fries, and fruit – just the fuel I needed for this Peoria weekend getaway.

» After breakfast, we finished packing and made our way to check out. I love that their checkout time is noon!

Other amenities

I wish we had time to enjoy more of the Marriott Pere Marquette’s Amenities, like the workout facility, the indoor pool, or the bar and lounge area on the first floor. I also know that the Marriott Pere Marquette will be opening their new fine dining restaurant- Fox and Ford sometime very soon which will be a wonderful addition to what they already offer.

Checkout

And so we checked out, and Elyse thanked Bryant at the front desk for his help the day before. Not only did he pay her the kindest compliment, but he also made sure that her check-in was a quick one when she arrived from Chicago on her way to the wedding. 

We made our way to the riverfront for a walk. The Illinois river is about a half mile from the hotel. It was a beautiful sunny day, although a bit windy, so it was a lovely brisk walk.

Along the river there were plenty of places to sit, and a path to enjoy a nice walk and get some exercise. The bridge is quite beautiful in downtown Peoria and made for a very pretty photo with the first signs of Fall starting to peek through.

We walked along the river before deciding to check out the businesses that were on Southwest Water Street- about 300 feet from the river. Here we found Rhythm Kitchen which my friend Marisa raved about. It has delicious food and plenty of vegan and gluten-free options for those with restrictions like she and I.

Ardor Bread and Provisions

Next to Rhythm Kitchen was Ardor Bread and Provisions. This was a bakery, coffee shop, and also a restaurant that has been receiving rave reviews even outside of Peoria. Everything looked delicious, but we were still full from breakfast. So we grabbed a seasonal cold brew, and continued on our way.

Downtown Peoria

We passed the Caterpillar Visitor’s Center, the Sculpture Walk, and the late great Richard Pryor’s statue.  There was also a Jim Henson exhibit at the Riverfront Museum. Peoria has numerous live music venues including the Peoria Civic Center that welcomes many conferences, big name concerts and events throughout the year. So plenty to see on a Peoria weekend getaway.   

We grabbed our cars and said goodbye to the Marriott Pere Marquette before making our way back to Grandview Drive. As I took a quick right onto the Drive, I couldn’t help but notice that there was still magic afoot. What was it about Grandview Drive?  

To my left I saw beautiful houses, and Grandview Park, which had plenty of tables and seating areas within the trees for a large outing. And there on the right, I could see the Illinois river starting to peek through the trees. And that was it. What’s more magical than catching a glimpse of the river through a band of trees?

Grandview Lookout #3

I met Elyse at Grandview Lookout #3. We pulled off to the right where there was a separate drive. We parked our cars and made our way over to the picnic table to enjoy nature’s beauty for awhile.

Trees were all around Grandview Drive Park, and there were a few clearings that made it easier to see the Illinois River. We used the moment to take photos to commemorate the weekend, and our Sunday of exploration. At this time there were only a handful of trees that had changed, but it was still so pretty! It really felt like the calm before the storm of colors.

Did you know?  

The leaves on trees change color depending on numerous factors-including the weather. Click here to see an amazing map of the U.S. that shows you when foliage is happening throughout the country. I will definitely be using this next year to plan a fall getaway!

Which is the Best Lookout on Grandview Drive in Peoria? 

To be honest, I wish we would’ve spent more time at either Grandview lookout #2 or lookout #1. But we had a time limit, as we both needed to get back to Chicago. We ended up spending the most time at #3, and did a quick stop at #2.

♥ My advice to you is to spend time at all 3 stops. Or better yet drive past all three and then backtrack.

Next time on Grandview Drive 

Next time, I want to pack a lunch, then park my car and go for a bike ride, or perhaps a walk up and down Grandview. It’s really only a 2.52 mile stretch. There were people walking up and down or riding bikes, but it was by no means crowded. 

Grandview Drive is a plan your own adventure destination that is as peaceful as it is beautiful. You’ll be surrounded by an impressive landscape filled with lush trees that line the Illinois river, and plenty of tables and benches just waiting for you to sit and enjoy.

Here, you can be as outdoorsy as you want to be, or just sit and read a book. Next time after my walk, I can picture myself having a picnic on a blanket and losing track of time while I watch the leaves fall.  

As we approached, Lookout number two, we passed Castle Soderstrom! The wedding was such a marvelous experience. I’m not sure I’ll ever be over the old world charm- or the dragons.

♥ Click here to read more about Castle Soderstrom and Marisa and Aleks’s fairy tale wedding (article coming soon!)

The Peoria Heights Tower

Elyse and I then made our way to the Peoria Heights tower, which was about a 15 minute drive from downtown Peoria, and right up the road from Grandview Drive. The Heights Tower is a 500,000 gallon water tower that has 3 observation decks. The tower allows you the same stunning views of Grand View Drive Park and the Illinois River, except from 200 feet up in the sky. 

“Pure Imagination”

We took the elevator to one of the observation decks. It was very slow moving and we couldn’t help but feel like we were in Willy Wonka‘s chocolate factory. So we turned on “Pure Imagination” as we prepared ourselves to “View the Wonder” from the top of Peoria.

The elevator took us to one observation deck and then we climbed about 10 stairs to the very top. It was an incredibly windy day which made things interesting. So, if you have a choice, I do not recommend going up in the wind! However, we managed, and it was absolutely worth it. Just make sure you secure all clothing and items- and get ready to embrace that gorgeous windblown hairstyle.  

View from the top

I’m so glad we went up to the top, because the view was thrilling! We could see far and wide for 20 miles, and the tops of trees looked like fluffy green pillows with splashes of red, orange and yellow. 

I can only imagine how beautiful it will be at peak foliage. There is something so romantic about the fall.  I can’t wait to come back to see the trees play the last movement to their symphony of the changing leaves. I can only imagine that it will end with a stunning fanfare before fading away softly with a lullaby as the last of the leaves gently float to the ground.

Safety

I felt incredibly safe at the top, and I actually have a bit of a fear of heights in certain situations. The railing was high enough and very sturdy and even on a super windy day, it was clear that the observation tower wasn’t moving which put me at ease. The observation tower is open seasonally, and costs $2 to get to the top- cash only.

Elyse and I made our way back down the elevator where we said our goodbyes. She was headed back to Chicago, but I had one more stop before making the drive back home. I am so grateful to Elyse for helping me explore the Marriott Pete Marquette and Peoria. She was a wonderful travel buddy!

Food and Drink in Peoria Heights | Tips for your weekend getaway

Peoria Heights has numerous bars and restaurants and coffee houses that are worth checking out. I heard great things from Peoria locals including Leaves and Beans, Cyd’s in the Park, The rooftop at The Twelve Bar Lounge, Slow Hand Craft BBQ, and Pour Bros Craft Tap Room.  

Outdoor Activities in Peoria | Tips for your weekend getaway

From the Heights tower, I took the long way to my next destination so I could check out the Peoria Forest Park Nature Center. I love how isolated it all was- Nature really thrives in Peoria! It felt like Peoria Heights (which is more of a suburb), was in the middle of the forest.  

Honestly, the most difficult part about finding something outdoorsy to do was trying to make the decision of which option to go with. From numerous hiking trails at the Forest Park Nature Center, to the Botanical Garden, to the Pimiteoui Trail. There were different hikes and walks of varying difficulty and length to choose from.

Download the AllTrails App to see all our favorites hikes

Tanner’s Orchard

I then made my way a bit farther north, about 30 minutes from downtown Peoria to be exact, to Tanner’s Orchard. This place had all of the fall fun anyone could ask for! From apple picking to a market where you could purchase apples and cider, to an entire festival with games and rides and activities for children and families.

I was at Tanners orchard  early afternoon, and it was incredibly crowded, as it was a festival day. These days are lots of fun for families, but if Apple picking or just shopping for apples and pumpkins is what you are looking for, I would go on a non-festival day where it will likely be less crowded.

Apple Cider and Photo Ops

Tanner’s Orchard is also the perfect place for anyone looking for apple cider donuts, hot cider, or even Apple cider slushies. I purchased a hot apple cider and started looking for a photo opportunity- and there were many!

Near the Orchard entrance, I found a giant wooden chair and a massive swing.  Why is it so fun to sit on something so large? I found a friendly couple to take my photo on the swing as I enjoyed my hot cider and the crisp Midwestern fall air. And with that- My Peoria mission was complete!

On the move to: Peoria The Perfect weekend Fall Getaway

As I made my way home, and drove through the cornfields of Central Illinois I felt recharged and calm after a weekend away from the city of Chicago. Peoria has a lovely downtown with beautiful buildings, history and a lot of events to offer, except without the big crowds, which was a lovely change of pace. 

48 hours in Peoria is the perfect fall getaway, and I look forward to coming back to explore more of their food and music scene—all while staying at the Marriott Pere Marquette, of course. If you’re considering a Peoria weekend getaway, I can’t imagine a better place for a relaxing and outdoorsy fall escape. Many thanks to the Peoria Pere Marquette for making my stay cozy and memorable—I look forward to seeing you all again soon.

Next Fall in Peoria

Next year, I plan on visiting Peoria again when the colors are peaking so I can experience the perfect fall day in a classic Midwestern city. Fall is such a special time and there seems to be a bit of magic in the air as the seasons change.

READ MORE OF JULIE AND HER ADVENTURES

This article is written by one of our beloved writers, Julie Anne! A passionate explorer and storyteller, she brings us along on her adventures, diving into the food, wine culture, fashion, and history of each city she visits. Whether globetrotting or exploring her hometown Chicago, Julie captures the essence of each location, sharing the story of every place and person she encounters. Get a taste of Julie’s captivating narratives in her articles.

Also make sure to read Julie Anne’s Solo Travel Tips too if you’re in need of some good female solo travel tips.

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