Peoria Riverfront Museum Tours

Peoria Riverfront Museum featuring signage
Peoria Riverfront Museum featuring interior views
Peoria Riverfront Museum showing interior views as well as children
Peoria Riverfront Museum featuring interior views
Peoria Riverfront Museum showing interior views and theater scenes as well as a large group of people


Explore art, science, history and technology exhibits, plus an expansive planetarium and a riverfront sculpture garden, at Peoria’s premier museum.

Bring the whole family for a day of fun and learning at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. Overlooking the Illinois River in downtown Peoria, the museum building includes dozens of exhibits, a massive movie theater and an expansive planetarium dome.

Explore the museum’s many exhibits. Check out the current lineup of temporary exhibits, which have covered everything from President Lincoln to mythical creatures. Spend time in the permanent exhibits. These include a section dedicated to fine and folk art, with works on display by world-famous artists. Examine geological specimens in the area dedicated to natural sciences.

Go outside to the Sculpture Garden where there is over a dozen pieces of art overlooking the river. Many of the sculptures are made by Illinois artists.

Travel to outer space from your seat in the Dome Planetarium. See the skies unfold above your head as you learn about astronomy, the solar system, galaxies and more. Check with the museum’s front desk to see what educational programs are currently on the docket.

Watch a supersized film in the Giant Screen Theater. See everything from educational films to classic movies on the massive screen, which stretches seven stories high.

Stop by the museum store. Browse through a range of one-of-a-kind and locally made items, including books, T-shirts and souvenirs related to the exhibits.

Visit Peoria Riverfront Museum throughout the year. During the summer, it is open every day of the week, while it is closed on Mondays during the rest of the year. It is closed on certain holidays, including Easter Sunday, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

Purchase your admission ticket at the entry desk. A general admission ticket gives you access to all the museum’s exhibits and the planetarium. Buy a separate ticket to see a film in the giant screen theater. Enjoy complimentary parking in the museum’s covered garage.

Plan a trip to see Peoria Riverfront Museum

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Heritage Grand Inn
Par-A-Dice Hotel and Casino
Four Points By Sheraton Peoria

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Peoria Riverfront Museum

Four Points By Sheraton Peoria

Four Points By Sheraton Peoria

3 out of 5
500 Hamilton Blvd, Peoria, IL
Four Points By Sheraton Peoria
Par-A-Dice Hotel and Casino

Par-A-Dice Hotel and Casino

3 out of 5
21 Blackjack Boulevard, East Peoria, IL
Par-A-Dice Hotel and Casino
Stoney Creek Hotel Peoria

Stoney Creek Hotel Peoria

2.5 out of 5
101 Mariners Way, East Peoria, IL
Stoney Creek Hotel Peoria
Peoria Marriott Pere Marquette

Peoria Marriott Pere Marquette

3.5 out of 5
501 Main Street, Peoria, IL
Peoria Marriott Pere Marquette
Embassy Suites by Hilton E Peoria Riverfront Conf Center

Embassy Suites by Hilton E Peoria Riverfront Conf Center

3.5 out of 5
100 Conference Center Drive, East Peoria, IL
Embassy Suites by Hilton E Peoria Riverfront Conf Center
Best Western Plus Peoria

Best Western Plus Peoria

2.5 out of 5
300 Eastlight Ct, East Peoria, IL
Best Western Plus Peoria
Courtyard Peoria Downtown

Courtyard Peoria Downtown

3.5 out of 5
533 Main St, Peoria, IL
Courtyard Peoria Downtown
Holiday Inn Express & Suites East Peoria - Riverfront by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites East Peoria - Riverfront by IHG

2.5 out of 5
1100 Bass Pro Dr, East Peoria, IL
Holiday Inn Express & Suites East Peoria - Riverfront by IHG
Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites East Peoria by IHG

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites East Peoria by IHG

3 out of 5
101 Holiday Dr, East Peoria, IL
Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites East Peoria by IHG
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Peoria Riverfront Museum

At the Peoria Riverfront Museum, you can enjoy a variety of activities including live music performances and a welcoming gathering area. While you're there, don’t miss the chance to explore the beautiful surroundings with opportunities for boating and catching a baseball game. Make sure to visit today to experience stunning sunsets and all the vibrant local culture the museum has to offer.

Shopping

The nearest mall is Northwoods Mall, located 4 miles from Peoria Riverfront Museum, offering a variety of entertainment and shops. The Shoppes at Grand Prairie, 8 miles away, provides a lively atmosphere for family and business. If you're up for a drive, check out Lakeview Shopping Center, 17 miles away, for more options.

Recreation

O'Brien Field offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, located 0.4 miles from the museum. Weaverridge Golf Course, 5 miles away, provides a scenic outdoor experience for golfers. For a relaxing stroll, visit Bicycle Safety Town, a recreation park 5 miles from the museum, perfect for wellness and tranquility.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of karting at Kartville, located 3 miles from Peoria Riverfront Museum, where adventure vibes fuel your race. For a family-friendly outdoor retreat, visit Camp Wokanda, 10 miles away, offering camping fun. Enjoy scenic hiking along Rock Island Trail, situated 27 miles from the museum.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near the Peoria Riverfront Museum with a visit to the lively Rhythm Kitchen Music Café for live music and great food. For a laid-back vibe, enjoy a drink at the nearby Pub 254, where you can unwind with friends after a day of exploration.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Peoria Riverfront Museum

When visiting the Peoria Riverfront Museum, explore nearby attractions such as the vibrant arena entertainment facility, historic colleges and universities, and scenic urban parks. The area offers family-friendly activities, outdoor experiences, and a rich city atmosphere. Don't miss East Peoria Riverfront Park, just a short distance from the museum, perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying the local scenery.

  • Peoria Civic Center: Located only 0.3 miles from the Peoria Riverfront Museum, the Peoria Civic Center is a vibrant venue for family entertainment. Enjoy live performances, sporting events, and exhibitions in this lively atmosphere that caters to all ages.
  • Bradley University: A historic college located 1 mile away, Bradley University offers a culturally rich experience. Stroll through its picturesque campus, explore its museums, and appreciate the art and history that permeate the environment.
  • Illinois Central College: Just 0.1 miles from the museum, Illinois Central College features a modern campus with a dynamic city vibe. Engage with innovative programs and community events that highlight the college's commitment to education and local involvement.

Best time to go to Peoria Riverfront Museum

The best time to visit Peoria Riverfront Museum is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January25.2°F (-3.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February28.2°F (-2.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March41.4°F (5.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April51.6°F (10.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May63.0°F (17.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
June72.0°F (22.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
July74.7°F (23.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
August73.2°F (22.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September67.3°F (19.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
November41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
December32.5°F (0.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Peoria Riverfront Museum

To save money on your visit to the Peoria Riverfront Museum, consider traveling during the cheaper months of February and November to December, with Sunday being the least expensive day to stay. Utilize Expedia to compare hotel rates, book packages that combine flights and accommodations, and join the One Key membership for exclusive discounts. Also, explore free activities along the riverfront and take advantage of public transport options to navigate the area affordably. Always check for additional fees to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Peoria Riverfront Museum are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Peoria Riverfront Museum is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Peoria Riverfront Museum is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Peoria Riverfront Museum with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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