Peoria State Hospital Museum - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Rocky Glen Park located near the historical Grandview Drive and Rock Island Rail Trail, this park provides magnificent hiking opportunities along its many trails. With campgrounds, two ponds, picnic areas and its historic fairground-turned-playground, visitors of all ages will find something fun to experience here. For those looking for more intense activities, there's plenty of canoeing and kayaking to be enjoyed in the park's waters as well as geological exploration of its older rocks.

Francis W. Little House, is a historic home designed and built in 1904 by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The house is situated on a rural, wooded estate and contains many of the architectural elements for which Wright was famous – including truly breathtaking stained glass windows and vaulted ceilings. The building stands as an example of his Prairie style and of turn-of-the-century Craftsman architecture. It has been named to the list of National Historic Landmarks.

The Pettingill-Morron House Museum is an amazing historic place full of history and culture. Established in 1847, the house is one of the oldest buildings in the county and still stands today, providing visitors a unique glimpse into life over a century ago. Inside the museum you will find a great collection of artifacts, ranging from furniture to artwork to photographs that tell its story and highlight the house's rich past.

The sculptor Preston Jackson recently unveiled his stunning sculpture of comedian and actor, Richard Pryor, in Peoria County, Illinois. The elaborate bronze statue stands at an impressive 10-feet tall on a granite base that reads “He raised consciousness and brought joy” representing the lasting impact Pryor had in his hometown community. Jackson was inspired by photographs of Pryor from the early 1970’s to capture him in motion with a microphone stand dripping from his fingertips.

Dozer Park is a great place to stay and explore. The park itself is beautiful, with plenty of trees and trails to explore. Visitors can enjoy fishing at one of the area’s many stocked ponds, take a hike along one of the trails, or just sit and relax in the shade. The park also offers campsites for those who wish to spend the night; there are even cabins available for rent. For animal lovers, there is the Dogwood Petting Zoo where all kinds of animals can be seen and interacted with.

Laura Bradley Park is the perfect outdoor getaway for any nature enthusiast. Set on over 600 acres of prairie land, the park is comprised of two main areas: a recreation area equipped with hiking trails, picnic tables and pavilions, and an undeveloped natural area allowing visitors to explore the beautiful local flora and fauna. From breathtaking vistas and oak woodlands, to native grasses and wildflowers that attract migrating birds, this park truly has something for every outdoorsman.