Peoria Made Souvenirs 

By

Rachel Mangiapane, Guest Writer

on

No trip is complete without souvenir shopping. Remember your time spent in Peoria by grabbing a locally made souvenir or two.

FOR THE CREATIVE…

Glass Trinkets at J. Draper Glass   {Peoria}   //   An artisan made glass vase or ornament is a perfect reflection of time spent in Peoria. Better yet, take a class and make your own memory.

Hand Poured Candles at Generations Candle Company  {Peoria Heights}   //   Create your own signature scent to remember your visit. With nearly 100 fragrances and a plethora of vessels to select from, your candle will be as unique as you.

Bespoke Leather Wallet at Crafted DIY Studio & Bar  {Peoria}   //   Everyone will be asking where you got this. Create a one-of-a-kind wallet or clutch by sewing and stamping your own. Crafted provides all the tools, materials and instructions.

FOR THE FOODIE…

Growler at Various Breweries  {Peoria, Peoria Heights, Metamora} //   Take home some Peoria brewed suds in a local growler. Whatever your taste preference, you can find a small-batch craft brew to match it. 

Meat Sticks at Alwans + Sons   {Peoria}   //   Remember the quality midwestern meat by taking some meat sticks for the road. When you can’t decide between spicy, BBQ or cheese, just get them all.

Peoria Blend Coffee Beans at CxT Roasting Company   {Peoria}   //   Power through your day with this signature blend. This medium roast with elements of chocolate and roasted nuts is an easier sipper.  No worries if you get hooked – CxT offers subscriptions. 

Popcorn at Various Businesses  {Peoria, Peoria Heights, Washington, Canton, Morton, Forest City, Deer Creek, Speer}  //   A great companion for any roadtrip in the midwest, stock up on popcorn before leaving town. If you can’t choose between the endless flavor options, try the sweet and salty combination of carmel and cheese popcorn. 

Whiskey at BLACK BANK Distillery   {Peoria}   //   Possibly the most iconic Peoria item, libation lovers can’t leave whiskey city without an award-winning whiskey. Complement your bottle with a branded copper shaker.

Wine at Various Wineries  {Washington, Lewistown, Metamora, Canton, Manito, Mackinaw}   //   Take yourself back to relaxing times spent amongst the picturesque vineyards of Greater Peoria with a bottle or regional wine. The midwest has some of the most fertile soil in the world and you can taste the difference.

FOR THE FASHION LOVER…

Caterpillar Apparel at Caterpillar Visitor Center Gift Shop  {Peoria}   //   Caterpillar merchandise is as iconic as the big yellow machines. From durable workwear to baby clothes, you’ll find something for everyone.

Hello Headband® at Indie Gift House  {Peoria}   //   Accessorize your hair with these trendy, cloud soft headbands and  scrunchies made in Peoria. With designs for every season, you’re going to want to take home more than one.

Peoria Gifts + Apparel @ Shop Discover Peoria  //   You can rep Greater Peoria from head to toe by shopping Discover Peoria. Hats, tshirts, hoodies and more can be shipped directly to you. The online shop comes alive every year for the holidays at The Shoppes at Grand Prairie at the Discover Peoria Holiday Pop-up Shop. The storefront opens from Veteran’s Day to Christmas each year.

Maui Jim Sunglasses at Louisville Slugger Sports Complex, RC Outfitters, Weaver Ridge Golf Course Pro Shop, Pink Sugar Boutique, Metamora Fields Golf Club {Peoria, Metamora}  //   You don’t have to cross the ocean to take home some aloha spirit. Once you see the world through a pair of Maui Jim sunglasses, you’ll never go back. The company is known for remarkably clear polarized lenses and finely crafted frames. 

Wooden Element Earrings  at The Cottage Peddler  {Metamora}   //   Sustainable fashion for the win! Pick out a pair of eco-friendly earrings that are lead, nickel and cadmium free. You’ll likely pick up additional items from local artisans while browsing the cottage.

FOR GIFTING…

“100 Things to Do in Peoria Before You Die” by Molly Crusen Bishop at Relics  {Peoria + East Peoria}   //   Drop a hint to your travel buddies where the next trip should be. Local author Molly Crusen Bishop lays out all the best food, entertainment, shopping, history and more.

Dog + Cat Treats from Bear’s Bites at Rambler, My Dogs Bakery, Sous Chef, Preckshot Pharmacy, Hounds + Co, Sage and Co {Peoria, Peoria Heights}   //   Don’t forget about your furry friends! Take home Bear’s single ingredient treats and your pets might forgive you for leaving them at home.

STEM gifts at Peoria Riverfront Museum Gift Shop  {Peoria}   //   Know someone interested in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)? The museum gift shop has an excellent selection of educational kits, games and books for all ages.

Sleep Spritz at Alevan Botanica  {Peoria}   //  Encourage someone to add a wellness ritual to their lifestyle with a spritz. These aromatic mists are made with the highest quality essential oils to improve your mood and well-being. 

Rachel Mangiapane, Guest Writer
Author
Rachel Mangiapane, Guest Writer

Rachel Mangiapane moved to Peoria to attend Bradley University and never left thanks to her Caterpillar career. Growing up in a very small town, the Peoria area feels like a metropolis to her! With a home in Mapleton, work in Peoria, family in Washington and property in Cuba, she’s regularly exploring the region. You’re most likely to find her at a local coffee shop, antique store or yoga studio.

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