How to get to Peoria

Located in the heart of the state of Illinois, Peoria is a vibrant river city combining industrial heritage with modern cultural development. You can reach this corner of the USA in various ways: from a direct flight to a scenic journey by car or bus across the vast Midwest.

The most convenient way to get to the city is to take a flight to Peoria International Airport (PIA). This aviation hub is well-connected to the city and receives flights from the country's major transit centres, ensuring a comfortable arrival for travellers.

Alternatively, you can consider flying to neighbouring cities if tickets there prove more favourable. The nearest airports are located in the cities of Moline (119 km), Champaign (131 km), and Quincy (176 km), from where you will need to travel by ground transport to reach your final destination.

There is no railway station directly in the city of Peoria, so it is not possible to reach here exclusively by train. Travellers are advised to take the train to the nearest major stations and then transfer to a bus or a rental car.

The nearest cities with rail connections are Moline and Champaign, located approximately 120–130 km away. You can also consider the route via Quincy, which is slightly further, at a distance of 176 km.

Bus services connect the city with neighbouring regions, offering affordable travel options. The fastest route is from the city of Moline: covering 158 km will take only about 2.1 hours. A trip from the city of Champaign (148 km) will require more time — about 5.3 hours due to schedules and stops.

There is also a route from the city of Quincy (238 km); however, please note that travel time can be significant (about 23 hours) due to transfers, so this option may not suit all tourists.

Travelling by car allows you to plan your schedule flexibly and enjoy the views of the state. The drive from the cities of Moline or Champaign will take approximately 1.4 hours, as the distance is about 145–150 km. These are the fastest and most comfortable routes for drivers.

If you are heading from the city of Quincy, expect to spend about 2.4 hours behind the wheel to cover a distance of 205 km. Taxis or transfers for such distances are possible, but their cost will be significantly higher than renting a car.

To ensure your trip to Peoria is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, we recommend reviewing a few practical tips for tourists.

1. Seasonal Clothing. The climate here is continental: summers can be hot and humid, so pack light clothes made of natural fabrics, while winters can be cold and snowy — a warm jacket, hat, and waterproof shoes are essential.
2. Transport. Public transport is available via buses, but for maximum freedom of movement, especially if you plan to visit the surroundings, it is better to rent a car or use ride-hailing apps (Uber, Lyft).
3. Finances. The official currency is the US Dollar. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, from hotels to small cafes, but keeping a small amount of cash (in small denominations) is useful for tips.
4. Tipping and Etiquette. In restaurants and taxis, it is customary to leave a tip of 15–20% of the bill amount, as this constitutes a significant part of the staff's earnings.
5. Safety. Peoria is a fairly quiet city, but as everywhere, basic precautions should be observed: do not leave valuables in the car in plain sight and avoid walking in unlit outskirts at night.
6. Electricity. Type A and B sockets with a voltage of 110 V are used. If your electronics are from the UAE or Europe, you will certainly need a plug adapter, and possibly a voltage converter.

Following these simple recommendations, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the attractions and atmosphere of this American city.