Nestled beautifully along the Illinois River, Peoria was once known as the “Whiskey Capital of the World.” Due to our unique supply of grains, spring water and access to dependable fuels and transportation, we had 24 breweries and 73 distilleries. In fact, Peoria’s tax collection accounted for nearly half of the federal government’s entire revenue at one time! That’s a lot of booze (and quite a few gangsters, too). Though Prohibition changed all that, Peoria still found a way to still roar in the 1920s with the growth of manufacturing. Today our economy is much more diverse, boasting not only world-class manufacturers like Caterpillar, Komatsu and Maui Jim, but also outstanding healthcare systems, the nation’s largest USDA research facility, technology start-ups and an arts community that rivals much larger cities. And of course, you can still find unique microbreweries and craft distilleries popping up around town. From our network of world-class employers to our many unique amenities and overall quality of life, it’s easy to find your place in Greater Peoria — and live, work and play greater!