One State Sample Itineraries
Pre-conference activities May 30 & 31, 2009
Sample Day 1
...start off amazing with Toraason Glass - hand-blown glass demonstrations plus a tour of the facility
... take in the sights along the river on the Spirit of Peoria- 20th century authentic paddlewheel-driven boat with daily cruises along the Illinois River. No matter what the season, your eyes will marvel at the breathtaking riverfront.
...time for a bite at Café 401 - fantastic lunch located inside the shops at 401 Water Street downtown Peoria.
Head to the Heights for a little shopping! Peoria Heights Area Business Association is home to over 20 unique specialty shops that can entertain any shoppers' needs. Dress up your home, yourself or create a new piece of pottery!
...Get WILD at the Peoria Zoo in Glen Oak Park!
Dinner and a Show to wrap it up!
...All in one! Conklins Barn II Dinner Theater presents: "Squabbles" Saturday performance: doors open at 6p with dinner from 6:30p - 7:30p and show starting at 8pm. Sunday brunch: doors open at 11:45p brunch is served from 12p - 1p and the show starts at 1:30pm
...Or separate! Dinner at One World Eats and Drinks - eclectic dishes with several vegetarian options and home of the $20 NY Club, plus a show at Corn Stock Theater "The Producers" 7:30pm. Tickets are $17 adults/$12 students 18 and under.
Sample Day 2
Spend the day! At Wildlife Prairie State Park - A 2000-acre park that's home to bison, cougar, bobcats, eagles and other wildlife native to Illinois. If it weren't for the camouflaged fencing, you might be afraid you were lunch. Walk on the wild side!
Eamon Patrick's Pub House - stop in for a delicious homemade lunch in downtown Peoria.
... then you can walk to the Contemporary Art Center of Peoria - A cultural hub featuring art exhibitions, artist studios, poetry nights, blues performances, etc. The list goes on and on. About 20 resident artists are creating art on-site, and you're able to view their workstations...making you part of the magic!
Peoria Art Guild at the Foster Art Center - Founded in 1878, the Peoria Art Guild is the oldest community arts center in the state of Illinois; with gallery and retail spaces featuring works by local, regional, national and international artists in all mediums. Coming in the fall? The Guild is host to the nationally ranked Annual Fine Art Festival downtown on the riverfront during the autumn season.
Finally stop for a wonderful dinner and live music at Rhythm Kitchen Music Café where you are sure to hear some soothing jazz, bopping blues, or a one-man band!
.... if you're not interest in a band, check out Corn Stock Theater's production of the Producers. Show starts under the tent in Bradley park at 7:30pm.
Short Day Sample
Start off at lunch time with a sensational salad or sandwich at Maria's Tea Room in Washington on your way to Peoria!
... then take advantage of the beautiful outdoors at George L. Luthy Memorial Botanical Garden - This beautiful spot features 5 acres of landscaped gardens. The gardens also offer a place to escape the rush and stress of everyday life and enjoy a relaxing time in one of Peoria's most beautiful sites. (Admission)
...and don't forget Lakeview Museum of Arts and Sciences - The largest private downstate museum in Illinois. The museum features art and science exhibitions, Children's Discovery Center, Planetarium, Illinois Folk Art Gallery, Illinois River Decoy and Illinois Jacquard Coverlet exhibitions, the Museum Store and more! (Admission)
... or take a trip down memory lane at Wheels O' Time Museum- Set your sights upon displays of vintage and classic automobiles, tractors, toys, dolls and much more! These displays show life from 50-100 years ago. Participate in their many "hands-on" activities and hear the stories from yesteryear. (Admission)
... continue learning at the Prairie Center of the Arts - An exhibition/retrospective of Fred Jones, Professor Emeritus from Western Illinois University, will be featured in the gallery. Sat. and Sun. 1-4pm.
Just looking to shop and relax? Try these options!
The Shoppes at Grand Prairie -Enjoy your sense of touch while you get your hands on anything your heart desires! This open-air shopping and lifestyle center is anchored by Bergners, Linens N' Things, Old Navy, Borders and Dick's Sporting Goods. Let your "feel"ers run wild in all 50+ stores!
Five Senses Spa and Salon - There's nothing better than an afternoon of pampering. Visit Five Senses Spa and Salon for all of the pampering you could dream of. Massages, nail care, salon services...your options are limitless!
Kickapoo Creek Winery - With a wine tasting and a tour of the landscaped grounds, your senses will go on overload. Remember to take time to browse their eclectic gift shop filled with numerous opportunities to excite your taste buds!
Print Page
