The best things to do in Pekin

“Casual 18-hole golf course featuring mature trees, hills and a driving range, plus friendly service.”

“Lakeview Park Splashpad brings 14 playful spray features to the heart of Peoria, perfect for quick after-dinner energy burns or a Saturday cool-off that doesn’t require packing half the house. Let the kids sprint, stomp and giggle through water jets while you bask in the easiest win of the week.”

From the Peoria newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Mt Hawley Bowl mixes hometown vibes with 24 Brunswick synthetic lanes and slick BES-X scoring that makes frames fly. Cosmic bowling lights up Fridays and Saturdays, and the 18-hole Castle Golf course keeps the competition going afterward... yes, there’s an actual 30-foot castle.”

From the Peoria newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Equestrian farm turned elegant event venue with a bridal house and a gents' lounge.”

“Logan Recreation Center is the home base for Moonlight Coalition for Adult Learning, offering accessible GED and adult literacy classes that meet you where you are. If you or a neighbor has "go back to school" on the list, make this the week you finally cross it off.”

From the Peoria newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Membership-only country club offering a golf course, a pool, and dining, plus river views.”

“Madison Golf Course keeps it relaxed with an 18-hole, par-69 layout that plays 5,332 yards, perfect when you want a round that feels fun, not fussy. The pace is easy, the vibe is local, and it’s ideal for getting swings in without turning golf into a whole production.”

“Golf course featuring a par-3, 9-hole layout that's popular for practicing short games.”

“Golf club with a course that features bunkers, and a simulator.”

“Laid-back theater screening new films on multiple screens, plus snacks and drinks.”

“Need a local fairway fix this week? Newman Golf Course is an 18-hole, par-72 track with 6,496 yards of classic Peoria golf, plus a practice field, chipping area, and putting green to tune up before you tee off... then grab your crew, chase pars, and call it therapy.”

From the Peoria newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Seasonal attraction offering an 18-hole mini-golf course and world-famous ice cream.”

“Mt Hawley Country Club has been Peoria’s go-to since 1922 for morning tee times, poolside lounging, and post-round dining with Illinois River views. Family-friendly perks, tennis, pickleball, and even bocce mean everyone finds a lane... which is your sign to look into membership.”

“Outdoor play place with go-karts, mini-golf, bumper boats & batting cages (weather permitting).”

“Whether you want a proper par-72 challenge built for medium-to-low handicaps or a faster after-work loop, Kellogg Golf Course delivers with an 18 plus a 9-hole Executive that plays quick. Pencil it in this week and see if your irons are as honest as you say.”

From the Peoria newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Trade the same-old weekend for nine scenic holes, then stick around for beach time, fishing, or a lazy bonfire at Timberlake Club of Peoria. Open to members and non-members, with wooded views over two lakes and plenty of low-key ways to unwind right here.”

From the Peoria newsletter, August 17, 2026

“The Table Peoria is a community kitchen and gathering space where you can host your crew or drop in this week to catch charity events, performances, popups, and dinners. Think potluck energy, but polished... a flexible spot to celebrate milestones or try something new right here at home.”

From the Peoria newsletter, August 25, 2026