Things to Do in Peoria in October

October Weather in Peoria

22°C (72°F) High Temp

6°C (43°F) Low Temp

76 mm (3.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is October Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect fall foliage season - peak colors along the Illinois River and Forest Park Nature Center with stunning reds and golds from mid to late October
Comfortable daytime temperatures around 15-22°C (59-72°F) ideal for walking downtown Peoria and riverfront activities without summer heat exhaustion
Halloween events throughout the month including elaborate haunted attractions at Wildlife Prairie Park and downtown ghost tours utilizing Peoria's rich history
Lower hotel rates compared to summer peak season - typically 25-30% cheaper with good availability for spontaneous bookings

Considerations

Unpredictable weather requires packing both warm and cool clothing - temperature swings of 15°C (27°F) in single days are common
Daylight hours shrink rapidly from 11.5 to 10.5 hours during October, limiting outdoor photography and sightseeing time
Frequent rain showers on 10+ days can disrupt outdoor plans, especially river activities and hiking trails which become muddy

Best Activities in October

Illinois River Valley Fall Foliage Tours

October is the only month to experience peak autumn colors along the Illinois River bluffs. The combination of maples, oaks, and hickories creates a spectacular display from Grandview Drive. Cool 15-18°C (59-64°F) temperatures make hiking comfortable, and the lower UV index means gentler lighting for photography. Best colors typically occur October 15-25.

Booking Tip: Self-guided driving tours are free, but guided boat tours along the river cost ฿800-1,200 ($25-35) and should be booked 7-10 days ahead as October is peak season. Look for operators offering enclosed boats for rainy day backup. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Historic Downtown Walking Tours

October's cool temperatures make extensive downtown walking comfortable without summer heat. The city's architecture looks particularly striking against autumn skies, and many historic buildings offer indoor warmth during rain breaks. Ghost tours capitalize on Peoria's bootlegging history and are especially popular in October.

Booking Tip: Standard historical tours cost ฿400-600 ($12-18), while ghost tours run ฿600-1,000 ($18-30). Most operate rain or shine with covered stops. Book weekend evening ghost tours 2 weeks ahead for Halloween season. Current walking tours available in booking section below.

Corn Maze and Pumpkin Farm Experiences

October is the only month for authentic Midwest harvest experiences at farms within 30 km (19 miles) of Peoria. Cool weather makes corn maze navigation pleasant, and pumpkin picking is at peak season. Many farms offer hayrides and cider that locals consider essential October activities.

Booking Tip: Farm admission typically costs ฿500-800 ($15-25) per person. Weekends get crowded with local families, so visit Tuesday-Thursday for smaller crowds. Most farms operate rain or shine but call ahead during heavy rain days. Check current farm tour options in booking section below.

Caterpillar Visitor Center Industrial Tours

October's mild weather makes the walk between exhibit buildings comfortable, and indoor exhibits provide perfect rainy day alternatives. The center showcases Peoria's industrial heritage with hands-on equipment demonstrations that are more enjoyable in cool weather than summer heat.

Booking Tip: Basic admission costs ฿350-500 ($10-15) with guided tours at ฿650-850 ($20-26). Tours run hourly and don't require advance booking except for groups of 8+. Perfect indoor backup for rainy October days. See current tour schedules in booking section below.

Wildlife Prairie Park Fall Activities

October offers the best wildlife viewing as animals are active in cooler temperatures and fall foliage provides stunning backdrops. The park's 8 km (5 miles) of trails are comfortable to hike in 15-20°C (59-68°F) weather, and many animals like bison and elk are more visible preparing for winter.

Booking Tip: Park admission costs ฿400-600 ($12-18) with train rides an additional ฿300-400 ($9-12). Trails can be muddy after October rains, so waterproof boots recommended. Halloween events add ฿500-700 ($15-21) to admission. Book Halloween events 2-3 weeks ahead. Current park activities in booking section below.

October Events & Festivals

Early October

Heart of Illinois Fair

Traditional Midwest county fair featuring local agriculture displays, carnival rides, and regional food vendors. Showcases Peoria's farming heritage with livestock competitions and harvest-themed exhibits perfect for October visitors wanting authentic local culture.

Late October

Peoria Halloween Parade

Downtown parade featuring local businesses, schools, and community groups in costume. Followed by trick-or-treating in the Warehouse District with participating businesses. Family-friendly event that draws locals and showcases community spirit.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layered clothing system - start with light base layer, add fleece or sweater, finish with waterproof jacket for 16°C (29°F) daily temperature swings

Waterproof walking boots - October rain creates muddy conditions on hiking trails and unpaved paths around the Illinois River

Compact umbrella - afternoon showers are brief but frequent, and many attractions involve outdoor walking between buildings

Light fleece or wool sweater - evenings drop to 6°C (43°F) and indoor venues can be cool in historic buildings

Waterproof phone case or ziplock bag - essential for outdoor photography during unpredictable October weather

Comfortable walking shoes with good tread - wet leaves create slippery conditions on sidewalks and trail surfaces

Light scarf or neck gaiter - morning temperatures start cool and wind off the Illinois River adds chill factor

SPF 30 sunscreen - October UV index of 4 still requires protection, especially with snow reflection later in month

Small backpack or day pack - useful for carrying layers as you shed clothing during warmer afternoon periods

Insider Knowledge

Locals avoid Grandview Drive on weekends during peak foliage (October 15-25) due to traffic - visit Tuesday through Thursday mornings for best photography conditions and parking availability

Many restaurants offer seasonal menus featuring local apples and pumpkins in October - ask servers about harvest specials that aren't advertised to tourists

The Peoria Civic Center often has discounted parking after 6 PM in October - save ฿200-300 ($6-9) for evening events by arriving after typical work hours

Forest Park Nature Center trails are less crowded early morning after rain - wildlife viewing is better and trails are less muddy than expected since they drain quickly

Avoid These Mistakes

Underdressing for evening temperatures - many visitors pack for 22°C (72°F) daytime weather but aren't prepared for 6°C (43°F) nights

Planning only outdoor activities - with 10 rainy days, having indoor backup plans prevents wasted time and disappointed expectations

Driving Grandview Drive during peak weekend foliage without considering traffic - 30-minute scenic drives can take 90 minutes on Saturday and Sunday afternoons