Choose Greater Peoria

This is so cool! ?? In the early 1960s, Gerald D. Stephens had a simple but brilliant idea — insurance for contact lenses. Losing or breaking them, as many know, was expensive, and no one else was offering coverage. ??? That idea launched Replacement Lens Inc. (RLI) in Peoria, IL, which grew into the largest contact lens insurer in the world. ?? ?? RLI Insurance Company didn’t stop there. Their entrepreneurial spirit led them to expand into niche and underserved insurance markets, turning a brilliant idea into a powerhouse business — all from right here in Peoria. Proof that big ideas (and great businesses) thrive in Greater Peoria! Check out the throwback ad below. Gotta love a good blast from the past. #ChooseGreaterPeoria #TheRLIDifference #Innovation #PeoriaProud #PeoriaHistory

Have you heard? The ???????? ???????? ?????????????? ????????????????* has made its Peoria debut! #GlowWild is illuminating the Peoria Zoo from ?????????? ?? ???? ?????????? ????, ????????, every ???????????? ?????????????? ???????????? from ??:???? ??.??. ???? ??:???? ??.??. Here’s what to expect: ???????????????? ?????????????? ???????????????? – Marvel at handcrafted lanterns inspired by animals, nature and fantastical scenes, lighting up the zoo in vibrant color. ?????????????????????? ???????????????????? – Enjoy nightly family-friendly activities and entertainment. ???????????? ???????? & ???????????? – Grab delicious treats to make your night even more magical. Secure your tickets now and be part of Peoria’s newest tradition: https://lnkd.in/gamv5Ybm Advance Tickets: ? Adults (13+): $19.95 ? Children (2-12): $13.95 ? 1 and under: FREE ? Family Pack: $65 for 2 adults + 3 kids Tickets at the Door: ? Adults (13+): $25 ? Children (2-12): $15 ? 1 and under: FREE ? Family Pack: $65 for 2 adults + 3 kids *The Glow Wild Lantern Festival features handcrafted Chinese lanterns depicting animals, nature and mythical scenes. Each display blends traditional artistry with modern LED technology for a truly magical experience. Chief Artist Yu Wang, a master craftsman from Sichuan, China, created this internationally acclaimed festival, drawing inspiration from his family’s workshop, where his passion for lantern art first began. His stunning designs have captivated audiences worldwide — and now, for the first time ever, Peoria gets to experience the magic. #ChooseGreaterPeoria #TheresMoreHere #PeoriaZoo #GlowWildPeoria #LanternFestival #MustSee ?

Looking for a new job or career change? The #ChooseGreaterPeoria Careers Board connects you with top employers in the region, offering opportunities across industries like tech, healthcare, finance, manufacturing and more*. ???????????????? ?????????????????? & ??????????: RLI Insurance Company – Shape the future of insurance as an Actuary Greater Peoria Economic Development Council – Support local businesses as a Business Engagement Associate Illinois Mutual – Lead sales strategy as the Head of Individual Lines Morton Industries – Keep tech running smoothly as a Senior Systems Engineer Vonachen Group – Drive operational success as an Area Operations Manager NFW – Lead the charge in sustainable manufacturing and eco-friendly product development Caterpillar Inc. – Join a global leader in engineering and manufacturing with roles in innovation and operations Simantel – Be part of a creative powerhouse shaping brand strategy and marketing campaigns OSF HealthCare – Lead strategic facility operations and planning as the Director of Facility Planning and Operations Explore these opportunities and more* here: https://lnkd.in/gDDJGex5 With amazing companies hiring right now, why not take the next step today? #TheresMoreHere #Careers #CareerConcierge #JobOpportunities #CareerGrowth #TalentAttraction #TalentRetention

?????? ???????????? ?????????????????????? ???? ?????????????? ???????????? ? From bustling city streets to quiet countryside escapes, Greater Peoria offers a mix of vibrant communities. In this edition of Livability, we spotlight local gems — from East Peoria’s dazzling Festival of Lights to Eureka’s rich history as Ronald Reagan’s alma mater. Stroll through Peoria Heights’ lively downtown, where boutique shops and cozy cafés line the street. Breathe in fresh air on Morton’s trails or soak up the peaceful lake views in Pekin. Feel the strong sense of community in Washington, then unwind in Dunlap’s quiet suburban charm. Just a short drive away, Germantown Hills, Metamora and Chillicothe each offer small-town appeal. Want to see more? Click the link and explore for yourself. ?? bit.ly/48Nwbur #ChooseGreaterPeoria #TheresMoreHere #Livability #CommunitySpotlight Morton Chamber of Commerce; Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce; CITY OF EAST PEORIA; Eureka College;

Locals love it. Visitors rave about it. Peoria Heights is one of the most vibrant areas in our region. The best part? It’s all in a charming, walkable community. The Heights offers much more* than you might expect: ??? Shop at unique boutiques & find something special ??? Savor top-tier dining ?? Enjoy craft cocktails & local brews ?? Explore art, culture & specialty shops ?? Take in breathtaking views from Grandview Drive Check out the full guide to discover your next favorite spot! ?? #ChooseGreaterPeoria #PeoriaHeights #TheresMoreHere #ShopLocal #DineLocal

Peoria stands on the shoulders of many prominent Black trailblazers. Their vision and resilience changed history and paved the way for future generations. Across civil rights, education, sports, entertainment and politics, these individuals have left a lasting mark on Peoria’s identity and progress. As we celebrate #BlackHistoryMonth, let’s honor the legends — past and present — who broke barriers and uplifted communities. See the full list here: https://lnkd.in/gDnjGGDj #ChooseGreaterPeoria #TheresMoreHere #BlackHistory #BlackExcellence

Which Zendaya would you rather be? #ChooseGreaterPeoria #TheresMoreHere #Zendaya #AffordableHousing

?????? ?????????? ???? ?????????????????? ???? ?????????????? ???????????? ? Whether you're a student looking to further your education or a lifelong learner seeking new skills, we have plenty of options to explore. From Bradley University’s prestigious programs to Eureka College’s focus on leadership, Illinois Central College’s diverse offerings and the innovative training at University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Greater Peoria has something for every learner. Discover how these schools continue to shape the future of our community. ?? bit.ly/3ULUhA0 #ChooseGreaterPeoria #TheresMoreHere #Livability #HigherEducation #BradleyUniversity #EurekaCollege #IllinoisCentralCollege #UICOMP

Got dinner plans for #ValentinesDay yet? Skip the stress of cooking at home and indulge in world-class cuisine right here in Greater Peoria. ??? Whether it’s seafood perfection at Jonah’s, award-winning Italian at Connected or a mouthwatering steak at Kemp 208, our fine-dining scene rivals Chicago and NYC — without the jaw-dropping check at the end. Check out the image below for more top recommendations and book your rez today! What spot would you add to the list? Tag your favorites in the comments. #ChooseGreaterPeoria #TheresMoreHere #IllinoisFoodies #FineDining

When people think of our region, Peoria often takes the spotlight. But here’s the truth: We’re not just Peoria. We’re????????????????Peoria — a unified, 30-county hub of more than 1.7 million people. This year, we’re highlighting the dynamic and diverse communities that make up Greater Peoria. First up: ????????????????????, a town where history meets modern living, and community spirit runs deep. Check out the blog to see why #WashingtonIllinois is the perfect place to build your dream life, from excellent schools to picturesque neighborhoods and resilient residents. What's your favorite thing about Washington? Let us know in the comments. https://lnkd.in/gYd4eCFp #ChooseGreaterPeoria #TheresMoreHere #WashingtonStrong