Peoria

South Side, Peoria Neighborhood

South Peoria offers a tranquil neighborhood with predominantly single detached homes that display a wide range of sizes, from cozy lofts to spacious four-bedroom residences. The community is located conveniently close to several bus lines and major highways, providing reliable access for commuting or travel by car. Nearby elementary schools provide accessible educational options, including both public and private institutions. Dining options include several local restaurants within the area, enhancing daily convenience. Quiet surroundings are a notable feature of this community, as traffic noise and urban sounds remain minimal. Overall, South Peoria provides a peaceful setting with accessible amenities and diverse housing choices.

South Peoria is a very good community to buy a house in for those who prefer a relaxed atmosphere. South Peoria is very quiet overall, as noise from streets and other parts of the city is rarely an issue around one of the railway lines or I-474.

Highlights of South Side

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🌳 Martin Luther King Jr. Park

Located at MacArthur Hwy and Webster St, this spacious community park is a true heart of the South Side, featuring playgrounds, athletic fields, walking paths, and a bandshell that hosts neighborhood gatherings and summer events.

🏫 Roosevelt Magnet School

Serving students along Wiswall Street, Roosevelt Magnet School is renowned for its dedicated staff and performing arts programs, creating a dynamic educational hub that's deeply rooted in the South Side community.

🍽️ Charlie's Restaurant

A longtime local favorite at 3314 W. Lincoln Ave, Charlie's Restaurant offers hearty home-style American fare and legendary breakfast platters, drawing a loyal following from the neighborhood and beyond.

🛒 South Side Mission Thrift Store

Situated on S. Laramie St, this bustling thrift store not only provides affordable goods but also supports crucial outreach and social services in the community, making it a staple resource for many South Side residents.

🚴 Southtown Trail Connection

Running through the heart of the South Side, the Southtown Trail links several parks and residential streets, giving walkers, joggers, and cyclists a scenic, community-focused path for recreation and safe commuting.

South Side

This June in South Side

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

June 13, 2026

2026 Juneteenth Fest (ICONIC)

John Gwynn Park (806–809 W John H Gwynn Jr Ave) • 11:00 AM–7:00 PM

This vibrant Juneteenth festival celebrates culture, community, and unity with a parade, fashion show, wellness fair, live music and youth activities—ideal for South Side families looking to engage in meaningful local heritage and fun.

June 19, 2026

Jubilee Day: A Juneteenth Celebration

Peoria RiverFront (200 Northeast Water St) • 4:00 PM–9:30 PM

A free, family‑friendly evening honoring Black history and freedom with entertainment, food trucks, creative activities and a Juneteenth‑themed drone show—an easy, uplifting outing for South Side residents nearby.

June 14, 2026

Access for All Days – Multicultural Day at Peoria Riverfront Museum

Peoria Riverfront Museum • 12:00 PM–5:00 PM

This inclusive, free museum event offers planetarium shows, art projects, films, guided tours and an autism resource fair—perfect for families on the South Side seeking accessible cultural enrichment.

June 11, 2026

Peoria Pops on the Plaza: Patriotic Tunes

Peoria Riverfront Museum Sun Plaza • 7:00 PM–8:30 PM

Enjoy a live symphony orchestra performing American classics outdoors next to the river—a delightful summer evening cultural experience just across the river for South Side dwellers.

June 6, 2026

Crafts On The River – Spring Craft Show

Detweiller Park (8327 N Galena Rd) • 9:00 AM–4:00 PM

A cheerful outdoor craft fair featuring handmade goods by local artisans—great for South Side families looking for a relaxed outing and unique finds close by.

From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in South Side

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for South Side

Neighborhood Characteristics

Full Guide →

Demographics

Full View →