Evan & MacKenzie

Things To Do

The Wedding Website of MacKenzie Taylor and Evan Karas

We're so excited to share some of our favorite places with you while you're in town! Feel free to check out these spots while you're visiting or between our ceremony and cocktail hour. A Brief History of Peoria Peoria is one of Illinois's oldest cities, established as a French fur trading post in the late 1600s. Peoria is nestled in the Illinois River Valley, which has been a significant feature throughout Peoria's history. Peoria is also known for its historical role in whiskey production. By the late 19th century, Peoria had become a major hub for distilleries, producing more whiskey than any other city in the country. Peoria's place in American cultural lore is further cemented by the famous phrase, "Will it play in Peoria?" This saying originated in the early 20th century and became widely used in the 1920s vaudeville era. Because it was seen as a typical American city, if a show, product, or idea was successful there, it was believed it could succeed anywhere in the U.S.

Observation Tower at Tower Park

1222 East Kingman Avenue, Peoria Heights, IL 61616

Peoria is home to Grandview Drive, which overlooks the Illinois River Valley. To truly take in the "world's most beautiful drive", as declared by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1910, take a ride up to the top of the Observation Tower in Tower Park. This is the only structure of its kind in the U.S.A.! Observation Tower Hours - 11:00 am-7:00 pm - Thursday-Sunday, through mid-August weather permitting.

Peoria Riverfront Museum

222 Southwest Washington Street, Peoria, IL 61602

Located in downtown Peoria, the Peoria Riverfront Museum is the only multidisciplinary museum of its kind in the nation. This institution is home to art, science, history, and achievement. They are home to unique collections, exhibits, a giant screen theater, and a planetarium!

The Putt Club East Peoria

1001 Bass Pro Drive, East Peoria, IL 61611

Located right across the river in East Peoria, The Putt Club is a fun opportunity to play indoor and outdoor mini golf.

Peoria Zoo

2320 North Prospect Road, Peoria, IL 61603

Set in the heart of Peoria, Peoria Zoo is over 14 acres in size and home to nearly 100 species from around the globe. From giraffes and rhinoceroses to spider monkeys and lions, the Zoo is a great place to spend some time while you're in town.

Forest Park Nature Center

5809 North Forest Park Drive, Peoria Heights, IL 61616

Seven miles of trails for hiking and nature enjoyment and is home to a gift shop that carries bird feeding and hiking necessities.

The Great Room Bar at the Peoria Marriott Pere Marquette

501 Main Street, Peoria, IL 61602

The Pere Marquette has a great bar in the lobby where you can sit back and relax before cocktail hour begins upstairs.

The Neon Bison

617 Main Street, Peoria, IL 61602

Get a little bit of Nashville in Peoria! The Neon Bison is a Nashville-style bar in downtown Peoria, conveniently located just down the street from the Pere Marquette.

BLACK BAND Distillery

1000 Southwest Adams Street, Peoria, IL 61602

One of our favorite places to grab a cocktail and snack! One of Peoria's only craft distilleries is located in the Warehouse District, which is only a couple minutes drive from the Pere Marquette. We highly recommend their Brown Butter Fries if you're hungry.

Matilda's Cocktail Lounge

100 State Street, Peoria, IL 61602

Matilda's is so much fun! Take a step back in time at this 70s-themed cocktail lounge. All the drinks bring back a nostalgic vibe, with cards and board games available at every table. Matilda's is located in downtown Peoria, only a couple of minutes from the Pere Marquette.

Clink Bar and Events

4450 North Prospect Road, Peoria Heights, IL 61616

Click is a great place to enjoy a drink or grab some food! We love to hang out with our friends to grab a cocktail, beer, or food. Plus, if it's a nice day, you can sit outside!

Pour BROS. Craft Taproom

4450 North Prospect Road, Peoria Heights, IL 61616

Come hang out at Illinois' first pour-your-own taproom! Pour Bros' pour wall gives you a great chance to taste a variety of brews in every style. Don't like beer? No worries, they also have a full bar, ciders, and more available! Hungry? You can order Slow Hand BBQ right to your table. Enjoy sipping your beverages inside or out on the patio.

For all the days along the way

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