Understand

Peoria, Illinois, is a historic settlement with a rich cultural heritage. Situated on a captivating river bluff, this area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, offering archaeological evidence of human settlement as early as 10,000 B.C. The city was first established by French explorers in 1680, making it one of the oldest continuously-inhabited European settlements in Illinois. Its strategic location along the Illinois River facilitated its growth, particularly during the 1800s and early 1900s when it thrived as a bustling shipping hub. Peoria, like Muncie in Indiana, became known as an "Average American Town," a term famously used in Jack Benny's radio comedy and political circles during the Nixon administration. Despite the phrase's implications of lack of sophistication, Peoria's residents fiercely take pride in their city and its abundant offerings. They assert that the only distinctions between their city and Chicago, apart from size and cost-of-living, lie in the details. Today, Peoria's economy revolves around Caterpillar, a renowned manufacturer of construction equipment, as well as hosting significant business conventions. The city also attracts numerous visitors through Illinois high school sports tournaments, making it a vibrant destination. Notable figures hailing from Peoria include Richard Pryor, honored with an airport road named after him, and Betty Friedan, the influential author of The Feminine Mystique. For those planning a visit to Peoria, the Peoria Area Convention and Visitors Bureau is readily available to assist in crafting an exceptional itinerary.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

**1. Hamburger**The hamburger, often simply called a burger, is a sandwich consisting of a cooked patty of ground beef, usually served in a bun with toppings and condiments such as lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and pickles. It is a quintessential American fast food item that can be found at restaurants, fast food joints, and even street vendors throughout the country. While traditional hamburgers typically include beef, there are also vegetarian options available made from plant-based ingredients.

**2. Pizza**Pizza is a popular Italian-American dish consisting of a yeasted flatbread base, typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various other ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and herbs. In the United States, pizza is often sold as both a take-out and sit-down dining option, with numerous regional variations in styles and toppings. Pepperoni is a particularly popular topping in the U.S., but vegetarian and vegan pizzas are also widely available.

**3. Fried Chicken**Fried chicken is a southern-style dish comprised of marinated chicken pieces that are coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Originating from the American South, fried chicken has become a staple in the country's culinary landscape, with various regional variations in preparation styles and seasonings. It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as part of a larger feast, and although traditionally prepared with chicken, vegetarian alternatives do exist.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing