Hotels in East Peoria

East Peoria: Where River Breezes Meet Urban Serenity

Nestled along the scenic shores of the Illinois River, East Peoria, Illinois, invites travelers to explore its vibrant marina and picturesque Peoria Lake. This charming city offers a blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences, from boating and fishing to visiting the lively Riverfront Park. Discover local dining gems and enjoy events that celebrate community spirit. With its stunning river views and family-friendly attractions, East Peoria is a delightful escape for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil yet engaging getaway. Experience the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure in this hidden gem of the Midwest! For the best hotel rates in East Peoria, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in East Peoria

Some of the best places to stay in East Peoria are West Peoria, Bartonville and Pekin. West Peoria, Bartonville, and Pekin each offer unique experiences for travelers. West Peoria features suburban charm with easy access to Peoria's attractions. Bartonville is known for its peaceful environment, perfect for relaxation. Pekin boasts outdoor activities along the river. Hotel accommodations in these areas range from cozy inns to modern suites, providing options for all budgets. For first-time visitors, Pekin is ideal due to its blend of recreational opportunities and local culture, making it a great starting point for exploration. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in East Peoria:

1. West PeoriaOpens in a new window: West Peoria is an inviting destination perfect for family and entertainment enthusiasts. The area boasts attractions like the Peoria Civic Center and Bradley University, offering cultural and historic experiences. For comfortable stays, consider Courtyard Peoria DowntownOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel that caters to business travelers with amenities like a full spa and indoor pool. Another option is Peoria Marriott Pere MarquetteOpens in a new window, also a 3.5-star hotel, featuring meeting rooms and a 24-hour business center. Lastly, Embassy Suites by Hilton E Peoria Riverfront Conf CenterOpens in a new window, a pet-friendly option, provides a natural accommodation experience with outdoor amenities and facilities for business needs.
2. BartonvilleOpens in a new window: Bartonville is an excellent choice for outdoor lovers seeking a laid-back atmosphere with easy access to family-friendly attractions like the Peoria Civic Center. Concorde Inn Suites PekinOpens in a new window offers a budget-friendly stay with free self-parking, while Hampton Inn & Suites Pekin Peoria AreaOpens in a new window provides a pet-friendly environment with business amenities like meeting rooms. Another option, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Pekin (Peoria Area)Opens in a new window, is ideal for business travelers with multiple meeting rooms and a 24-hour business center, ensuring a productive stay.
3. PekinOpens in a new window: Pekin is a charming destination for outdoor enthusiasts and pets, with nearby attractions such as the Peoria Civic Center and Bradley University. For affordable accommodations, Hampton Inn by Hilton LincolnOpens in a new window is a pet-friendly choice, offering essential amenities for a comfortable stay. Comfort Inn & Suites near Route 66Opens in a new window, also pet-friendly, caters to business travelers with a 24-hour business center. Lastly, Holiday Inn Express LincolnOpens in a new window provides additional meeting room facilities, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable stay for both leisure and business visitors.

Things to do in East Peoria for first time

East Peoria offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational fun, making it an ideal three-day getaway. Enjoy boating along serene waterways, explore lush parks, and unwind with live music and shopping. The vibrant atmosphere and diverse activities promise a memorable experience for all travelers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to East Peoria:

• Day 1: Start your East Peoria adventure at the Peoria Riverfront Museum, where you can explore interactive exhibits that showcase the region's history and culture. After immersing yourself in local art and science, take a short stroll to the Luthy Botanical Garden. Here, you can enjoy the tranquil beauty of diverse plant species and stunning floral displays. End your day at St. Mary's Cathedral, a magnificent architectural gem, where you can appreciate its beautiful stained glass and serene atmosphere.
• Day 2: Begin your exploration at Courthouse Square, the historic heart of East Peoria, where you can admire the stunning architecture and perhaps grab a coffee at a nearby café. Following this, head to Forest Park Nature Preserve, an ideal spot for hiking or a peaceful walk among nature. Conclude your outdoor experience at Forest Park South Nature Preserve, where you can enjoy the picturesque trails and abundant wildlife, making it a great place for birdwatching.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at the Contemporary Art Center of Peoria, where you can view innovative exhibits and engage with local artists. Afterward, take a relaxing stroll around West Lake, a perfect place to unwind and soak in the natural beauty. Wrap up your visit at Wildlife Prairie State Park, where you can explore the trails, interact with native wildlife, and enjoy a picnic amidst nature, creating a memorable end to your East Peoria trip.

5 tips to find a great East Peoria hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit East Peoria is between October and December, when hotel rates drop significantly. International travelers should aim to book their flights at least four months in advance to secure budget-friendly prices. To fully appreciate the main attractions, such as the scenic river and marina, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended. This way, you can enjoy great value for your money while exploring the beauty of East Peoria.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're searching for last-minute deals to East Peoria, Hotels.com is a great resource. You could find discounted rates by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on the site, especially as your travel date approaches. To stay informed about the latest prices and flash sales, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you're more likely to catch special promotions and find the best value for your stay in East Peoria.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in East Peoria.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in East Peoria usually tends to be more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like private vehicles to explore the area, which can be more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in East Peoria and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat in East Peoria

Here are some famous dishes in East Peoria, Illinois, United States of America:

• Steak: In East Peoria, savoring a perfectly grilled steak is a must. Many local steakhouses pride themselves on serving hand-cut, aged beef to ensure rich flavor and tenderness. Pair your steak with local sides like baked potatoes or seasonal vegetables for a true Midwestern experience. Popular spots include Half Sheep House, known for its inviting atmosphere and happy hour specials.
• Tacos: Dive into the vibrant world of tacos at local taquerias, where fresh ingredients meet bold flavors. You can find everything from traditional carne asada to creative vegetarian options, often served with house-made salsas. Check out El Portillon for a casual dining experience that highlights the community’s love for Mexican cuisine, perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely meal with friends.

Best time to go to East Peoria

East Peoria experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 25.2°F (-3.8°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.7°F (23.7°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit East Peoria are March, April, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.