Glen Oak Park
About Glen Oak Park
A Park with Deep Roots
Tucked away on North Prospect Road in Peoria, Illinois, Glen Oak Park is one of the most significant parks in the Peoria Park District (fun fact: it's Illinois' oldest and largest public park system!). Sprawling across 117 acres, this green oasis has been bringing people together since 1896, making it a place where generations of families have created memories.
Landscape architect Oscar F. Dubuis designed the park with a Victorian flair that somehow still feels fresh today. Walking through Glen Oak, you can sense how thoughtfully the space was planned - balancing natural beauty with attractions that keep you coming back.
What You'll Find Here
The Peoria Zoo houses over 100 species in various themed areas. The AFRICA! exhibit is particularly impressive (those entrance gates!), offering surprisingly close encounters with giraffes. If you can swing by around 11 AM, you might catch feeding time - a highlight that never gets old.
Right next to the zoo, the PlayHouse Children's Museum offers hands-on fun that sparks imagination in kids. The interactive exhibits keep little hands busy and young minds engaged. They also host birthday parties that take the stress off parents while guaranteeing a good time.
Need a moment of zen? The Luthy Botanical Garden delivers with its themed gardens and vibrant conservatory. Spring brings an explosion of colors, but there's something calming about wandering through regardless of season. It's like a peaceful little world within the larger park.
Historical Touches
The park proudly preserves its history through landmarks like the Glen Oak Pavilion, a beautiful Victorian structure that has stood the test of time. The Sunken Garden and Pergola add to the park's charm, offering glimpses into Peoria's past while providing perfect spots for photos.
Get Moving
For those looking to stay active, Glen Oak offers several options. Hiking and biking trails weave through wooded areas, offering a quick nature escape without leaving the city. Sports enthusiasts can take advantage of tennis courts, baseball fields, and soccer fields throughout the grounds.
The newer lighted pickleball courts have become quite the hotspot - four dedicated courts that stay open into the evening make it easy to squeeze in a game after work.
The Glen Oak Lagoon, a three-acre fishing pond, offers a peaceful spot to cast a line, but it can get a bit busy during prime times.
Kid-Friendly Features
The recently renovated playground deserves special mention. Replacing the old wooden structure, this fully inclusive playground was designed with all children in mind, featuring specialized equipment for kids of different abilities. Parents appreciate the fenced-in area for extra safety, while kids love the musical elements and varied play structures suited for different ages.
Across the park, you'll come across picnic areas with shaded tables and grilling stations - great for family gatherings or just a laid-back lunch outdoors. Restrooms are available, with additional portable facilities during busier events.
Community Central
Glen Oak Park hosts many community events. The Juneteenth Festival and various concerts at the Glen Oak Amphitheatre bring neighbors together throughout the year.
Over a century after its creation, Glen Oak Park continues to be a place where natural beauty, recreation, and history blend together. Many Peoria residents and visitors come here to enjoy the outdoors and create their own experiences.
All Features & Facilities
Active Recreation
Nature & Wildlife
Water Features & Activities
Visitor Services
Food & Gathering
Photo Gallery (click to enlarge)
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