Surrounded by the rugged terrains of Sonoran desert and immense natural beauty, the city of Peoria is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. From horseback riding, hiking to biking trails and paintball, this place has something for everyone. While nature lovers can bask in the beauty of Pleasant Lake, art fanatics can visit the various museums and art galleries in the city.
History of Peoria
Named after the city of Peoria in the state of Illinois, the word Peoria literally means ‘prairie fire’ in the native Miami-Illinois language. William John Murphy was working on the Arizona Canal, when he started recruiting workers, especially from Peoria in Illinois, to begin a community over here. 4 families left the city in Illinois to settle in the city that is now Peoria, Arizona.
Till the year 1887, an ancient desert road, which connected Phoenix to Hassayampa River, was the only source of transportation to the city. A new road was soon built, which connected Peoria to new towns like Glendale, Alhambra, Phoenix, Vulture Mine and more. On 24th May 1897, settlers mapped Peoria with the Maricopa Country recorder and named the city after their hometown in Illinois. On 4th August 1888, Peoria was granted its first ever post office and had a population of 27.
Important Locations in Peoria
Surrounded by immense rugged beauty, the city of Peoria is a great city to visit, especially if you love outdoor activities. Apart from that, the city is also home to a number of museums, art galleries and other indoor activities. Here are some popular places for tourists to explore in Peoria:
Peoria Sports Complex
Established in the year 1994, Peoria Sports Complex is a popular baseball arena situated near the famous shopping district of the city – Bell Road. The complex is home to a primary baseball stadium and twelve practice fields. With a seating capacity of 12,000, Peoria Sports Complex is home to both Seattle Mariners and San Diego Padres. It is also among the six stadiums to host the famed Arizona Fall League Games. Moreover, the complex also hosts the Vans Warped Tour every year since the year 2002. For more information about the complex,
click here.
Address: 16101 N 83rd Ave, Peoria, AZ 85382, United States
Phone: 1 623 773 8700
New Waddell Dam
Constructed in the year 1994, the New Waddell Dam is a huge artificial bank on the River Agua Fria in the county of Maricopa. Located just 22 miles north of Peoria city, the dam also forms the Lake Pleasant and provides water for Maricopa Water District. Moreover, the dam also provides flood protection, recreational opportunities and hydroelectric power generation. For more information on New Waddell Dam,
click here.
Rio Vista Community Park
It is one of the biggest recreational areas in the Greater Phoenix area, featuring several indoor and outdoor attractions. Inside, visitors can indulge in racquetball, fitness centers, climbing walls, gym and an array of workshops, seminars, programs and other special events. While outside, the park is home to a playground, splash pad, skate park, sports field and several ramadas. One can even fish here with a permit. For more information on timings,
click here.
Address: 8866 W. Thunderbird Rd, Peoria, AZ 85381, United States
Phone: 1 623 773 7137
People and Culture of Peoria
According to the 2010 Census of United States of America, Peoria had a population of 154,065. This city is a dwelling for several racial compositions including White (84.95%), Hispanic (15.41%), African American (2.78%), Native American (0.68%), Asians (1.92%), Pacific Islander (0.11%), Other Races (7.09%) and Two or more Races (2.48%).
Time Zone and Phone Codes of Peoria
Peoria is in the Mountain Time Zone (UTC – 7). The Summer Daylight Saving Time (DST) is Mountain Daylight Time (UTC − 6).
Standard Time Zone: UTC – 7 hours
Daylight Saving Time: UTC – 6 hours
Daylight Saving Time: 1 hour
Time Zone Abbreviation: MST, MT, MDT
Phone Codes of Peoria
Peoria Area Code: 623, 928
International Country Code: 1
Best Time to Visit Peoria
The best time to visit the city of Peoria is between the months of September and November, which is also the main tourist season. If you do not like crowds, then you can also visit the city between the months of April and May, and December and March, when the weather is cool and pleasant.
Seasonal Events and Festivals in Peoria
Parkfest! at Parkridge Park (January)
Peoria Greek Festival (February)
Dolly Sanchez Memorial Easter Egg Hunt (April)
All American Festival (July)
Annual Fiesta Peoria (September)
First Responders Water Slide Adult & Youth Triathlon/Duathlon (September)
Halloween Monster Bash (October)
GAIN Annual Public Safety Night (October)
Old World Oktoberfest (October)
Old Town Holiday Festival (December)
Peoria Map
