Things to Do in Peoria in November

November Weather in Peoria

16°C (61°F) High Temp

2°C (36°F) Low Temp

64 mm (2.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect autumn foliage viewing along Illinois River Bluff Trail - peak color typically occurs November 5-15 with vibrant reds and golds at 46m (150 ft) elevation changes
Ideal indoor cultural weather for world-class Peoria Riverfront Museum and Caterpillar Visitors Center - comfortable 21°C (70°F) indoor temperatures contrast beautifully with crisp outdoor air
November hunting season brings authentic local experiences - deer archery season runs through November 30, pheasant season opens November 9, creating vibrant sporting goods districts and local traditions
Pre-winter event season peaks with Bradley Braves basketball home opener typically mid-November at Carver Arena, plus Peoria Symphony Orchestra's fall concert series in full swing

Considerations

Daylight shortens dramatically from 10 hours 30 minutes to 9 hours 15 minutes throughout November - outdoor activities must be planned for 9am-4pm window
Weather unpredictability requires flexible planning - temperature swings of 11°C (20°F) in single day are common, with potential for both 21°C (70°F) sunny afternoons and surprise snow flurries
Many seasonal outdoor attractions close by November 15 including riverboat tours and most state park camping facilities - indoor backup plans essential

Best Activities in November

Illinois River Valley Fall Foliage Tours

November 1-20 offers the most spectacular autumn colors along the Illinois River bluffs. Cool temperatures of 2-16°C (36-61°F) preserve leaf colors longer than warmer October weather. Wildlife viewing peaks as deer become more active before winter. Best viewing times 10am-3pm when low UV index 3 provides perfect non-glare lighting for photography.

Booking Tip: Book guided nature tours 7-10 days ahead through state park services. Self-guided driving tours cost nothing but require 4WD vehicle for some bluff access roads. Typical guided tours range $25-45 per person for 2-3 hour experiences.

Downtown Cultural District Walking Tours

Perfect November weather for exploring Peoria's revitalized downtown - cool 16°C (61°F) highs ideal for 2-3 hour walks without overheating. Historic Warehouse District, Peoria Riverfront Museum, and Caterpillar Visitors Center all within 0.8 km (0.5 mile) radius. Indoor venues provide warm refuge during November's 10 rainy days.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours using mobile apps cost $5-12. Professional guided tours typically $20-35 per person and run year-round regardless of weather. Book same-day through visitor center. Most tours include indoor museum stops for weather protection.

Bradley University Basketball Experience

November marks the exciting start of Bradley Braves basketball season at Carver Arena. Pre-winter indoor entertainment at its finest with 21°C (70°F) arena comfort while it's 2°C (36°F) outside. Student energy peaks during semester, creating authentic college town atmosphere. Games typically 7pm start times perfect for short November daylight.

Booking Tip: Season tickets and single-game tickets available through Bradley athletics. Games range $15-75 depending on opponent and seating. Buy tickets 2-3 weeks ahead for popular matchups. Arena parking $10-15, arrive 1 hour early in November due to early sunset affecting traffic patterns.

Peoria Zoo Winter Preparation Tours

Unique November experience watching animals prepare for Illinois winter. Cool 2-16°C (36-61°F) temperatures actually make many animals more active than summer heat. Special behind-the-scenes tours show winter habitat preparations. 64mm (2.5 inches) November rainfall creates lush final green spaces before dormancy.

Booking Tip: Special winter prep tours offered weekends in November, $35-50 per person including regular admission. Book 10-14 days ahead as these sell out quickly. Indoor Africa exhibit provides warmth during weather breaks. Standard admission $12-18.

Illinois River Archaeological Expeditions

November's low water levels and cleared vegetation create optimal conditions for guided archaeological site visits. Cool temperatures perfect for 3-4 hour outdoor expeditions. Dickson Mounds Museum offers specialized November programs before winter closure. UV index of only 3 reduces sun glare on artifact hunting.

Booking Tip: Educational archaeology tours through Dickson Mounds Museum typically $25-40 per person. Must book 14+ days ahead as November programs limited to 12 people maximum. Includes indoor museum component for weather protection. Some sites require 1.6 km (1 mile) moderate hiking.

Spirit of Peoria Riverboat Heritage Tours

Final month for authentic paddlewheeler experiences before winter shutdown. November's crisp air and low humidity create crystal-clear river views extending 8 km (5 miles). Fall colors reflect spectacularly in calm water. Indoor heated cabin areas provide comfort during 2°C (36°F) morning temperatures.

Booking Tip: Limited November sailing schedule - typically weekends only. Book immediately upon arrival as season ends November 15-20 weather depending. Tours $30-65 per person, dinner cruises $75-95. Indoor seating recommended for November comfort.

November Events & Festivals

Mid November

Bradley University Homecoming Activities

Major November event featuring basketball season opener, alumni gatherings, and campus-wide celebrations. Authentic college town experience with local restaurants offering special menus and downtown bars hosting watch parties.

Early to Late November

Peoria Symphony Orchestra Fall Concert Series

Professional orchestra performances at Peoria Civic Center featuring classical and contemporary works. Perfect indoor cultural activity for November's unpredictable weather with elegant 1,900-seat theater setting.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layered clothing system essential - temperature swings from 2°C (36°F) morning to 16°C (61°F) afternoon require removable layers

Waterproof walking shoes with good tread - 64mm (2.5 inches) rainfall creates slippery leaves on sidewalks and trail surfaces

Compact umbrella for sudden showers - November rain typically light but persistent, lasting 2-4 hours rather than brief downpours

Warm jacket or coat rated to -1°C (30°F) - occasional surprise cold snaps can drop temperatures below freezing overnight

SPF 30 sunscreen still necessary - UV index 3 plus reflection off wet surfaces can cause burns during 9-hour daylight window

Portable phone battery pack - cold weather drains phone batteries 30% faster, essential for navigation and indoor venue information

Cash in small bills - many local attractions and downtown parking meters don't accept cards, especially older establishments

Comfortable indoor shoes - you'll spend significant time in museums, theaters, and restaurants escaping weather

Light gloves and warm hat - early morning and evening temperatures around 2°C (36°F) make extremities cold quickly

Camera with weather protection - November's dramatic skies and fall colors create incredible photo opportunities but equipment needs moisture protection

Insider Knowledge

Local hunting seasons create unexpected benefits - sporting goods stores offer November sales on outdoor gear, and restaurants feature seasonal game menus with venison and pheasant specials

University student energy peaks in November before finals stress - downtown nightlife, coffee shops, and casual dining scenes are most vibrant mid-semester

November 11 Veterans Day brings special programming to World War II Illinois Veterans Museum and Military Heritage displays downtown - free admission and veteran storytelling events

Illinois River water levels drop 0.6m (2 feet) in November creating accessible riverbank areas normally underwater - great for photography and nature observation along Grand View Drive

Avoid These Mistakes

Assuming outdoor attractions stay open all November - many close by November 15 including riverboat tours, some state park facilities, and seasonal outdoor museums

Underestimating how quickly it gets dark - 4pm sunset by month's end catches visitors off-guard, cutting outdoor activities short and affecting driving navigation

Packing only for mild fall weather - November can surprise with everything from 21°C (70°F) sunny days to sudden snow flurries requiring winter gear