Things to Do at Caterpillar Visitors Center

Complete Guide to Caterpillar Visitors Center in Peoria

About Caterpillar Visitors Center

The Caterpillar Visitors Center in Peoria, Illinois, serves as the flagship showcase for one of the world's largest manufacturers of construction and mining equipment. Located at the global headquarters of Caterpillar Inc., this impressive facility offers visitors an immersive experience into the company's rich history, innovative technology, and massive industrial machinery that has shaped infrastructure development worldwide. The center features interactive exhibits, historical displays, and full-scale equipment demonstrations that highlight Caterpillar's evolution from a small tractor company founded in 1925 to a Fortune 100 corporation. Visitors can explore the engineering marvels behind earth-moving equipment, learn about sustainable technology initiatives, and witness firsthand the scale and power of machines used in major construction projects around the globe.

What to See & Do

Heavy Equipment Display

Walk around and climb aboard massive bulldozers, excavators, and mining trucks to experience their impressive scale

Interactive Technology Center

Hands-on simulators and digital displays showcasing modern construction technology and autonomous vehicle innovations

Company History Museum

Comprehensive timeline exhibits featuring vintage machinery, historical photographs, and the evolution of Caterpillar's global impact

Sustainability Showcase

Learn about environmental initiatives, electric vehicles, and green technology solutions in heavy industry

Virtual Reality Construction Experience

Immersive VR experiences that put you in the operator's seat of various Caterpillar machines

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday-Friday 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Closed Sundays and major holidays

Tickets & Pricing

Free admission for all visitors, though advance reservations are recommended for groups of 10 or more

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, with spring and fall offering the most comfortable weather for outdoor equipment displays

Suggested Duration

Allow 2-3 hours for a comprehensive visit including all exhibits and interactive experiences

Getting There

The Caterpillar Visitors Center is located in downtown Peoria at 110 SW Washington Street, easily accessible from Interstate 74. The center is within walking distance of downtown hotels and restaurants, with several paid parking lots and street parking available nearby. For those flying in, General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport is approximately 15 minutes away by car. Public transportation options include CityLink bus services that connect to the downtown area.

Things to Do Nearby

Peoria Riverfront Museum
Modern museum featuring art, science, history, and achievement exhibits plus a giant screen theater and planetarium
Spirit of Peoria Paddlewheel
Authentic paddlewheel riverboat offering scenic cruises along the Illinois River with dining options
Luthy Botanical Garden
Beautiful 5-acre botanical garden featuring tropical conservatory, rose garden, and seasonal flower displays
Peoria Zoo
Compact but well-designed zoo home to over 100 species including African lions, red pandas, and interactive farm animals
Grand View Drive
Scenic roadway offering panoramic views of the Illinois River Valley, once called 'the world's most beautiful drive' by Theodore Roosevelt

Tips & Advice

Wear comfortable walking shoes as the facility includes both indoor and outdoor exhibits with various terrain
Bring a camera - photography is encouraged throughout most of the center, especially with the large equipment displays
Check the website before visiting for any special events, temporary exhibits, or equipment demonstrations scheduled during your visit
Consider combining your visit with a tour of downtown Peoria's historic warehouse district and riverfront area for a full day experience

Tours & Activities at Caterpillar Visitors Center