Peoria - When to Visit

When to Visit Peoria

Year-round climate guide & best times to travel

Peoria experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons, characterized by hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The city sits in the heart of Illinois, where weather patterns are influenced by both continental air masses from Canada and warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico. Spring and fall serve as pleasant transition seasons with mild temperatures and moderate precipitation. Summer months (June-August) bring high temperatures often reaching the upper 80s to low 90s°F with high humidity levels, while winters (December-February) can be harsh with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing and significant snowfall. The area receives fairly consistent precipitation throughout the year, with slightly higher amounts during spring and early summer. Understanding these seasonal patterns is crucial for planning activities, as each season offers distinct advantages for different types of experiences.

Best Time to Visit by Travel Style

Beach & Relaxation

June through August offer the warmest weather for lakefront activities along the Illinois River, though humidity can be high.

Cultural Exploration

April-May and September-October provide comfortable temperatures for walking tours and outdoor cultural events without extreme weather.

Adventure & Hiking

Late April through May and September through early October offer ideal conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage.

Budget Travel

January-March and November offer lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds, though weather can be challenging.

Month-by-Month Climate Guide

January

January is the coldest month in Peoria with frequent snow and freezing temperatures. Indoor activities and winter sports are popular, but travelers should prepare for harsh weather conditions. Snow cover is common throughout the month.

1°C (34°F) High Temp
-8°C (18°F) Low Temp
46mm (1.8in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View January Details →

February

February remains cold with occasional winter storms and snow. Daylight hours begin to increase slightly, but temperatures stay well below freezing most days. Indoor attractions and winter activities dominate the tourism scene.

4°C (39°F) High Temp
-6°C (22°F) Low Temp
41mm (1.6in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View February Details →

March

March marks the beginning of spring with gradually warming temperatures, though snow is still possible. Weather can be unpredictable with rapid changes between winter and spring conditions. Early spring activities begin to emerge.

11°C (52°F) High Temp
0°C (32°F) Low Temp
64mm (2.5in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View March Details →

April

April brings pleasant spring weather with blooming flowers and mild temperatures. Rainfall increases as spring storms become more common, but outdoor activities become much more enjoyable. This is an excellent time for sightseeing.

18°C (64°F) High Temp
6°C (43°F) Low Temp
89mm (3.5in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View April Details →

May

May offers some of the most pleasant weather of the year with warm days and cool nights. Spring is in full swing with green landscapes and comfortable temperatures for all outdoor activities. Occasional thunderstorms provide most of the rainfall.

24°C (75°F) High Temp
12°C (54°F) Low Temp
114mm (4.5in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View May Details →

June

June marks the beginning of summer with warm temperatures and increasing humidity. Long daylight hours and generally pleasant weather make it ideal for outdoor festivals and activities. Thunderstorms are common in late afternoon and evening.

29°C (84°F) High Temp
17°C (63°F) Low Temp
102mm (4.0in) Rainfall
High Crowds
View June Details →

July

July is typically the hottest month with high temperatures and significant humidity. Summer activities are at their peak, but the heat can be uncomfortable during midday hours. Thunderstorms provide relief but can be severe.

31°C (88°F) High Temp
20°C (68°F) Low Temp
89mm (3.5in) Rainfall
High Crowds
View July Details →

August

August continues the hot, humid summer pattern with temperatures remaining high. Late summer festivals and events are popular, though the heat can be oppressive. Evening activities become more appealing as temperatures cool slightly.

30°C (86°F) High Temp
19°C (66°F) Low Temp
84mm (3.3in) Rainfall
High Crowds
View August Details →

September

September brings the beginning of fall with cooler temperatures and lower humidity. This is one of the most comfortable months for outdoor activities with pleasant days and cool nights. Fall colors begin to appear later in the month.

26°C (79°F) High Temp
14°C (57°F) Low Temp
76mm (3.0in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View September Details →

October

October offers beautiful fall weather with crisp air and stunning autumn foliage. Temperatures are ideal for hiking and outdoor exploration, while harvest festivals celebrate the season. This is considered one of the best months to visit.

20°C (68°F) High Temp
7°C (45°F) Low Temp
61mm (2.4in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View October Details →

November

November sees the transition into winter with cooling temperatures and the first possibility of snow. Fall colors fade and trees become bare, while shorter days signal the approaching winter season. Indoor activities become more popular.

12°C (54°F) High Temp
1°C (34°F) Low Temp
64mm (2.5in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View November Details →

December

December brings winter weather with cold temperatures and the likelihood of snow. Holiday festivities brighten the season, but outdoor activities are limited by weather conditions. Winter preparations and indoor attractions dominate the tourism landscape.

4°C (39°F) High Temp
-5°C (23°F) Low Temp
51mm (2.0in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View December Details →

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