Overview
The Illinois River widens into Peoria Lake as it passes the city, and Peoria's riverfront is lined with parks, restaurants and event spaces.
History
French explorers built a fort near Peoria in 1680, and the river later carried barges and steamboats to the Mississippi.
Today
The riverfront hosts festivals and concerts, and barges still move cargo on the river.
Compiled October 2026. History is summarized for general interest; check primary sources for research. This landmark is local context, not an employer or job listing.