Grandview IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Grandview, Illinois.
1. Grandview Drive
WORLD'S MOST BEAUTIFUL DRIVE
Grandview Drive is a 2.52-mile scenic route constructed in 1903 that offers panoramic views of the Illinois River Valley. President Theodore Roosevelt dubbed it the 'world's most beautiful drive' during his visit to Peoria in 1910. The drive features historic homes on one side and breathtaking views on the other, making it especially stunning during autumn when the foliage changes color.
2. Grandview Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
Grandview Park is a large recreational area located along the famous Grandview Drive in Peoria. Visitors can enjoy walking paths, picnic areas, and spectacular views of the Illinois River Valley. The park is part of the historic linear park system that was one of the first of its kind when established.
3. Peoria Country Club
HISTORIC GOLF DESTINATION
The Peoria Country Club is an upscale recreational facility located along Grandview Drive featuring a well-maintained golf course and tennis courts. Members and guests can enjoy sports activities while taking in the scenic beauty of the surrounding area. The club is nestled among the historic homes that line the famous drive.
4. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
LINCOLN'S LIFE SHOWCASED
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum stands as one of the most visited presidential museums in the United States, offering an immersive experience into Lincoln's life and legacy. Interactive exhibits use cutting-edge technology to bring history to life, including recreations of Lincoln's boyhood home and the White House. Visitors can explore extensive collections of Lincoln artifacts and documents that tell the story of America's 16th president.
5. Lincoln Home National Historic Site
PRESIDENT'S SPRINGFIELD RESIDENCE
The Lincoln Home National Historic Site preserves the only home Abraham Lincoln ever owned, where he lived from 1844 to 1861 before becoming president. The restored Greek Revival house offers guided tours that provide insight into Lincoln's family life during his rise to prominence. The surrounding four-block historic district features period homes and exhibits that recreate the neighborhood as Lincoln would have known it.
6. Old State Capitol
HISTORIC POLITICAL CENTER
The Old State Capitol in Springfield served as Illinois' fifth statehouse from 1840 to 1876 and was the site where Abraham Lincoln delivered his famous 'House Divided' speech. This Greek Revival building has been meticulously restored to its 1860s appearance, allowing visitors to stand in the same chambers where Lincoln worked as a lawyer and legislator. Tours of the building offer insights into Illinois' political history and Lincoln's formative political years.
7. Bill Shea's Gas Station Museum
VINTAGE AUTOMOBILE MEMORABILIA
Bill Shea's Gas Station Museum is a nostalgic attraction showcasing the history of gas stations and automobile travel in America. The museum features a collection of vintage gas pumps, signs, and automobile memorabilia that transport visitors back to the golden age of Route 66. Located alongside Fulgenzi's Pizza & Pasta, it offers a unique combination of automotive history and classic Italian dining.
8. Fulgenzi's Pizza & Pasta
CLASSIC ITALIAN DINING
Fulgenzi's Pizza & Pasta is a beloved local eatery offering authentic Italian cuisine in a family-friendly atmosphere. Located next to Bill Shea's Gas Station Museum, this restaurant combines great food with a touch of Route 66 nostalgia. Visitors can enjoy traditional pizza and pasta dishes while soaking in the historic ambiance of this Springfield institution.
9. Tower Park
ARTS AND RECREATION
Tower Park in Peoria Heights serves as a cultural hub hosting events such as the annual Peoria Heights Fine Art Fair. The park offers recreational facilities and green spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy throughout the year. Its central location makes it a gathering point for community activities and seasonal celebrations.
10. Peoria Heights Fine Art Fair
ANNUAL CREATIVE SHOWCASE
The Peoria Heights Fine Art Fair is an annual event organized by the Peoria Heights Arts Collaborative, showcasing works from talented artists across the region. Held at Tower Park, this vibrant festival brings together creators and art enthusiasts for a weekend of cultural appreciation and creative exchange. Visitors can browse and purchase unique artworks while enjoying the atmosphere of this community celebration.
11. Illinois River Scenic Overlooks
BREATHTAKING VALLEY VIEWS
The Illinois River Scenic Overlooks along Grandview Drive offer spectacular vantage points to admire the majestic river valley below. Several parking areas allow visitors to stop, get out, and fully appreciate the panoramic vistas that inspired Theodore Roosevelt's famous compliment. These lookout points are particularly stunning during sunset and in autumn when the foliage transforms the landscape into a canvas of vibrant colors.
12. Grandview Drive Walking Path
SCENIC RIVERSIDE TRAIL
The Grandview Drive Walking Path features 1.75 miles of paved sidewalk running alongside the famous scenic drive. Fitness enthusiasts and nature lovers can enjoy hiking, walking, or jogging while taking in the stunning views of the Illinois River Valley. The path is well-maintained and accessible, making it perfect for visitors of all ages seeking outdoor recreation in a historically significant setting.
13. Historic Grandview Drive Homes
ARCHITECTURAL RIVERSIDE ELEGANCE
The Historic Grandview Drive Homes district comprises remarkable and architecturally significant residences lining the western side of the famous drive. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1996, these elegant houses represent various architectural styles and the prosperity of Peoria's past. Driving or walking past these homes offers visitors a glimpse into the area's rich history and architectural heritage.
14. Peoria Park District
PLEASURE DRIVEWAY SYSTEM
The Peoria Park District, officially named "Pleasure Driveway and Park District of Peoria," manages the undeveloped valley-side land along Grandview Drive. This historic park system was one of the first linear parks of its time, offering serene natural spaces with park benches for contemplation and relaxation. The district's preservation efforts ensure that visitors can continue to enjoy the unspoiled beauty of the Illinois River Valley for generations to come.
15. Illinois Route 29 Scenic Byway
RIVER ROAD JOURNEY
Illinois Route 29 Scenic Byway connects with Grandview Drive and follows the Illinois River, offering extended views of the waterway and surrounding landscapes. The route takes travelers through charming river towns and past natural areas that showcase the beauty of central Illinois. Motorists can enjoy this picturesque drive as an extension of their Grandview Drive experience, making it a perfect day trip for those exploring the region.