Marquette Heights IllinoisATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Marquette Heights, Illinois.
1. Marquette Heights Park
RECREATION AND FAMILY FUN
Marquette Heights Park offers a variety of amenities including a nine-hole disc golf course, a pavilion with electric services, public restrooms, a playground, and a cooking grill. The park is a favorite spot among families for picnics, outdoor gatherings, and recreational activities. Its accessible facilities and welcoming atmosphere make it a centerpiece for local community events and leisure.
2. Independence Park
SPORTS AND NATURE RETREAT
Independence Park features a half-mile walking track, five baseball diamonds, an inclusive playground, and the popular Eagle Dog Park. Visitors often enjoy the spacious pavilion and well-maintained public restrooms, making it ideal for both active sports and family outings. The park's ample green space and recreational options cater to visitors of all ages throughout the year.
3. Fon du Lac Park District River Trail of Illinois
SCENIC BIKING AND WALKING PATH
The River Trail of Illinois offers scenic biking and walking trails that run along the Illinois River, connecting several parks and natural areas. This greenway provides a peaceful environment for outdoor exercise, wildlife spotting, and river views. It is a popular destination in the area for cyclists, walkers, and nature enthusiasts.
4. Splashdown Water Park
FAMILY WATER ADVENTURE
Splashdown Water Park features thrilling water slides, a relaxing lazy river, and a splash pad for younger children. The facility is perfect for families seeking a fun and safe way to cool off in the summer. Its well-maintained pools and staffed lifeguards ensure an enjoyable experience for guests of all ages.
5. Forest Park Nature Center
NATURAL OASIS AND TRAILS
Forest Park Nature Center encompasses over 500 acres of woodland with miles of hiking trails, a visitor center, and educational exhibits about local flora and fauna. The center serves as a hub for nature education, bird watching, and outdoor recreation. Its scenic beauty makes it a must-visit for both locals and visitors.
6. Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT HUB
Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino offers a vibrant casino atmosphere with a wide selection of slots, table games, and poker, as well as on-site dining and live entertainment. The hotel provides comfortable accommodations, making it a destination for both gaming and relaxation. Its riverside location adds to the appeal for those looking for nightlife and entertainment options.
7. Peoria Zoo
WILDLIFE EXPLORATION FOR ALL AGES
Peoria Zoo houses more than 100 different species, providing engaging experiences with animals from around the world, including lions, giraffes, and rhinoceroses. The zoo is thoughtfully designed with interactive exhibits and educational programs for families and school groups. Its commitment to conservation and community outreach makes it a regional favorite.
8. Giant Oak Park
HISTORIC LANDMARK TREE
Giant Oak Park is home to one of the oldest and largest oak trees in the state, estimated to be over 300 years old. The park offers shaded seating and interpretive signage that tells the tree's history and significance. It provides a peaceful retreat and a tangible connection to the area's natural heritage.
9. Dozer Park
MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL ACTION
Dozer Park serves as the home stadium for the Peoria Chiefs, offering exciting minor league baseball games and family-friendly entertainment. The facility features modern amenities, concessions, and activities for spectators of all ages. Game nights provide a lively community gathering with a classic baseball park atmosphere.
10. Peoria Riverfront Museum
INTERACTIVE SCIENCE AND ART
Peoria Riverfront Museum features rotating art, science, and history exhibits, a planetarium, and a giant screen theater. The museum is a cultural hub that inspires curiosity and learning for visitors of all ages. Its riverfront location and engaging programming make it a highlight of the greater Peoria area.
11. Luthy Botanical Garden
GARDENS AND SEASONAL DISPLAYS
Luthy Botanical Garden spans five acres and showcases a variety of themed gardens, including a rose garden, perennial borders, and tropical conservatory. The garden is a tranquil escape filled with vibrant blooms and educational programs year-round. Seasonal events and flower shows attract garden enthusiasts and families alike.
12. Rock Island Trail State Park
TRAIL ADVENTURE AND BIKING
Rock Island Trail State Park provides a scenic 26-mile crushed stone trail for biking, hiking, and wildlife observation through rural landscapes and forests. The trail is well-marked, making it ideal for both casual and avid outdoor enthusiasts. Its peaceful surroundings offer a refreshing way to experience central Illinois' natural beauty.
13. Illinois Central College Performing Arts Center
LIVE THEATER AND CONCERTS
The Illinois Central College Performing Arts Center presents a diverse lineup of theatrical productions, concerts, and community events each season. Its modern auditorium delivers excellent acoustics and comfortable seating. The venue is a local cultural landmark, drawing audiences from across the region.
14. Caterpillar Visitors Center
INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE EXPERIENCE
The Caterpillar Visitors Center immerses guests in the world of heavy equipment manufacturing with interactive exhibits, simulators, and full-size machinery displays. Personalized tours offer insights into Caterpillar's history and global impact. The center caters to families and industry enthusiasts interested in engineering and innovation.
15. Spirit of Peoria Paddlewheel Boat
HISTORIC RIVER CRUISES
The Spirit of Peoria Paddlewheel Boat offers classic riverboat cruises along the Illinois River, combining scenic views, live entertainment, and narrated local history. The authentic paddlewheel design evokes the golden era of river travel. The cruises are a memorable way to experience the region's waterway heritage and vibrant sunsets.