Tower Park — Attraction in Peoria Heights

I did a lot of research before I got in town but somehow this 300 foot tall water tower did not come onto my radar. Lucky for me. It was at the end of the scenic drive that I had bookmarked. It was very interesting crawling to the top in a very small, slow elevator after buying our tickets. There’s not especially a lot to see at the top, but they make it very visually interesting by putting markers, pointing in the direction of cities and marking how far off they are. There are three observation decks, the top of which has no roof and minimal guard rails, which makes it very terrifying If you are in anyway afraid of heights, which I guess I am after having spent less than a minute on the third level and immediately going back to the second. I was surprised that there weren’t more safety measures up there as it seemed pretty easy to just jump off if someone felt so inclined which places this height generally assume people are, it seems. Overall, I thought it was very cool that this place has its own little ticket booth and was the town little attraction is still running. It feels like little things like this. Stopped getting the maintenance and attention they needed to function along time ago at...

This is a nice attraction for anyone interested in geographical tourism.

As you ride the elevator to the lower observation deck, you'll be overlooking a landscape that just may inspire enough awe that you'll want to hire Sacagawea to take you exploring. The lower deck is impressive on it's own, so much so that it may take a moment to notice the spiral staircase to the very top of the tower.

There, beautiful, open-sky views of the Illinois River Valley are indexed the entire circumference of the tower with Geospatial markers listing distance to famous landmarks. Certainly, this place is a local treasure that I would recommend to anyone visiting the area.

The kids seemed to enjoy this simple, stoic tower as much, or more, than the Caterpisitor Center or other over-hyped attractions; however, they were disappointed that they couldn't get their Penny Press smashed penny from the City Building next door due to it being a weekend. So if you're a collector of the Pressed Pennies be sure to plan ahead.

FYI, For the Pokemon Go, Harry Potter, Niantic crowd there are a ton of AR installations in this...

I had a great time with my 2yr old daughter and she also loved it! The tower is an unique experience in the area. The glass elevator was exciting, but I could see how it would be disconcerting for some people to ride. The observation deck is great. It has high walls with barred windows for children's safety. (I was worried that I may have to take my toddler up with a leash on, lol.) However they were not so high to impede my view. THE VIEW was my favorite part. Illinois river valley could be experienced in breathtaking panoramic 360°. Don't forget to bring some quarters for the telescopes. Only wish I had thought to bring my camera. Next...