Glasford IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Glasford, Illinois.
1. Glasford Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR SPACE
Glasford Park offers a dog-friendly environment where visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities in a welcoming setting. The park includes shelters, benches, and picnic tables perfect for special events or romantic picnics. Families can take advantage of the playground equipment while basketball courts are available for sports enthusiasts.
2. Banner Marsh State Fish & Wildlife Area
NATURE AND WILDLIFE PRESERVE
Banner Marsh State Fish & Wildlife Area is located approximately 25 miles southwest of Peoria on U.S. Route 24, protected from the Illinois River by a major levee. Teeming with fish and wildlife, this preserve provides outdoor activities including hunting, fishing, boating, dog training, picnicking, wildlife observation and photography. The area features three public access points with parking lots, boat ramps, restrooms, and picnic areas.
3. Lick Creek Golf Course
SCENIC GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Lick Creek Golf Course is a popular attraction where golf enthusiasts can enjoy a well-maintained course in a serene setting. Visitors appreciate the challenging layout that accommodates players of various skill levels. The course features beautiful landscaping and provides a relaxing outdoor experience for locals and tourists alike.
4. Avanti's Dome
MULTI-PURPOSE SPORTS FACILITY
Avanti's Dome is a distinctive multi-purpose sports and recreation facility serving the Pekin area. The dome-shaped structure hosts various sporting events, tournaments, and community gatherings throughout the year. Visitors can participate in or watch a variety of indoor sports activities regardless of the weather outside.
5. Wildlife Prairie Park
NATIVE WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Wildlife Prairie Park offers visitors a chance to observe native Illinois wildlife in their natural habitats across 2,000 acres of beautiful terrain. The park features bison, wolves, waterfowl, and numerous other species that once thrived in the Illinois prairie. Families can enjoy hiking trails, educational programs, and even overnight lodging options in unique accommodations.
6. Forest Park Nature Center
WOODLAND TRAILS AND EDUCATION
Forest Park Nature Center provides visitors with over 7 miles of hiking trails through pristine Illinois woodland and prairie habitats. The center includes an interpretive center with natural history exhibits, educational programs, and a nature store. Nature enthusiasts can observe local wildlife, identify native plants, and enjoy scenic views throughout the changing seasons.
7. George L. Luthy Memorial Botanical Garden
DIVERSE BOTANICAL COLLECTIONS
George L. Luthy Memorial Botanical Garden surrounds visitors with spectacular seasonal displays including spring blooming bulbs and the blazing colors of autumn. The gardens offer a tranquil setting to enjoy the beauty of nature through various themed collections and garden spaces. Established over a century ago, this botanical treasure continues to provide educational opportunities and peaceful respite for garden enthusiasts.
8. Peoria Playhouse Children's Museum
HANDS-ON CHILDREN'S LEARNING
The Peoria Playhouse Children's Museum provides children with interactive exhibits that engage their imagination and foster creative learning experiences. With various hands-on displays, the museum helps young visitors become explorers and creators through playful educational activities. The facility also offers rentals and classes, making it an integral part of the Peoria community for families.
9. Peoria Riverfront Museum
ARTS, SCIENCE AND HISTORY
Peoria Riverfront Museum overlooks the Illinois River and houses more than 15,000 objects covering subjects from history and science to art and ecology. The comprehensive museum complex includes a planetarium and theater offering diverse programming throughout the year. Beyond its permanent exhibits, the museum organizes workshops, classes, and seminars on a variety of educational topics.
10. Caterpillar Visitors Center
HEAVY MACHINERY SHOWCASE
The Caterpillar Visitors Center offers a unique museum experience where visitors can experience virtual thrill rides in Caterpillar's mining trucks and design their own construction vehicles. This engaging attraction showcases the history, technology, and global impact of Caterpillar's iconic yellow machinery. Engineering enthusiasts and curious minds alike will appreciate the interactive exhibits highlighting industrial innovation.
11. Grand Army of the Republic Hall
HISTORIC CIVIL WAR MEMORIAL
The Grand Army of the Republic Hall, established in 1909, was erected to commemorate the soldiers who fought in the American Civil War. The Revival-style structure, designed by Hewitt & Emerson firm, features beautiful woodwork, early 20th-century embellishments, and stained glass that add historic charm to the space. This preserved landmark can be rented for private celebrations and events in the heart of Peoria.
12. Peoria Civic Center
ENTERTAINMENT AND CONVENTION VENUE
Peoria Civic Center serves as the region's premier venue for concerts, sporting events, conventions, and Broadway shows. The multi-purpose facility is home to Bradley Braves Men's Basketball and hosts a diverse calendar of entertainment options throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy performances and events in this centrally-located venue that anchors Peoria's downtown entertainment district.
13. World On Wheels Segway Tours
GUIDED CITY EXPLORATION
World On Wheels Segway Tours offers visitors a unique way to explore Peoria's highlights on self-balancing personal transporters. Guided tours provide historical context and interesting facts about the city while participants enjoy the novel experience of Segway transportation. The company also offers quadracycle bike rides as an alternative exploration option for those seeking a different perspective.
14. Peoria Zoo
GLOBAL WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
Peoria Zoo is home to over 100 species of animals from around the world, including giraffes, rhinoceros, spider monkeys, and sea lions. Visitors can explore various habitat zones representing different geographical regions while learning about wildlife conservation efforts. The zoo offers educational programs and special events throughout the year for animal enthusiasts of all ages.
15. Jumping Jax Family Fun Center
INDOOR ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX
Jumping Jax Family Fun Center provides indoor entertainment options for families looking for active recreation regardless of weather conditions. The facility offers various attractions designed to engage children and adults in physical play and interactive games. Though advertising free Wi-Fi, visitors primarily come for the hands-on activities and energetic atmosphere rather than digital connectivity.