48 Hours in Peoria

Friday, September 12

• 6 P.M. – Peoria Riverfront Ribfest and Barbeque
  This professional "Memphis in May" sanctioned contest allows contestants to compete against other area greats while having fun. Winners will have the opportunity to travel to the national competition.

  Peoria Riverfront Festival Park
  681-0696

• 9 P.M. – Live Jazz Music and Margaritas at Martinis on Water Street
  Visit the new outdoor Margarita Garden and try a martini or margaritas-they have over 100 different kinds-while enjoying live jazz music.

  Martinis on Water Street
  655-5003

Saturday, September 13

• 2 P.M. – Fibber McGee and Molly Exhibit, Flanagan House Museum
  This exhibit honors native Peorians Jim Jordan and Marian Driscoll, the most beloved husband and wife team in radio history. It features artifacts, memorabilia, and a re-creation of Fibber’s messy closet.

  Flanagan House Museum
  674-0322

• 4:30 P.M. – Ice Cream at Emo’s
  Emo’s is known throughout central Illinois for its fantastic ice cream. Just look for the well-known Emo’s clown at the corner of War Memorial and Prospect, and you’ll find one of the best spots for a coney dog and a root beer. Then treat yourself to an ice cream cone!

  Emos
  War Memorial & Prospect
  

• 7:30 P.M. – Peoria Symphony Orchestra
  The Peoria Symphony Orchestra enters its 106th season as the nation’s 15th oldest symphony. World-renowned artist Hilary Hahn shows you why so many think she deserves a place in the pantheon of supreme violinists.

  Peoria Civic Center Theatre
  671-1096

Sunday, September 14

• 11 A.M. – Brunch at Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe
  see review

  Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe
  Shoppes at Grand Prairie
  692-9727

Sunday, September 14

• 1 P.M. – Hiking at Forest Park Nature Center
  Forest Park Nature Center is a great place to spend a day with the family. Comprised of more than 500 acres of dedicated Illinois State Nature Preserve, Forest Park Nature Center contains seven miles of hiking trails, from rigorous uphill courses to flatter, less strenuous paths. The Center also features a natural history museum, spacious viewing room for bird watchers, and the Trailhead Nature Store with books and unique gift items for all ages.

  Forest Park Nature Center
  5809 Forest Park Drive
  686-3360

Also this weekend:

• 37th Annual Morton Pumpkin Festival
  4 p.m. to 12 a.m., Friday and Saturday Downtown Morton (888) 765-6588
• The Last Five Years, a musical
  8 p.m., Friday and Saturday Apollo Professional Theatre 673-4343

Featured Restaurant:

Camille’s Sidewalk Café at the Shoppes at Grand Prairie offers a unique and varied mix of foods in a casual setting. From sandwiches, wraps, and paninis to gourmet coffees and smoothies, Camille’s has something for everyone. It also features breakfast wraps all day long.

Shoppes at Grand Prairie
692-9727