Life in Central Illinois

You'll find the best of all worlds for family and community life in the heart of Illinois. HeartCare Midwest physicians and employees have immediate access to educational, cultural, dining and recreation opportunities. Central Illinois offers an affordable housing market, excellent schools and proximity to both the Chicago metropolitan area and the rural communities of downstate Illinois.

Welcome to Peoria!

The oldest community in Illinois with a population of 112,936, Peoria is located on the banks of the Illinois River and is equal distance from Chicago and St. Louis. There’s an enviable standard of living, exciting venues within a 15-20 minute drive from most homes, safe streets, quality and quantity shopping, symphony and ballet theater, museums, art guilds, a vibrant riverfront and first-class medical facilities that are a regional draw.

Peoria is proud to be the site of the world headquarters of Caterpillar Inc., with many global businesses that allow it to connect worldwide through their products and services. The city has embraced increased business growth in the fields of technology, education, healthcare and governmental services; attracting the brightest and most dedicated physicians, researchers and educators from around the world.

Follow these convenient links for more information:

Peoria Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

The Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce

Welcome to Bloomington!

A vibrant community located in the heart of central Illinois, Bloomington is located just a few hours from Chicago and St. Louis and is considered one of the most productive agricultural areas in the nation. In addition to major manufacturers and industries, there are two universities, two hospitals, a convention center, indoor and outdoor malls, Amtrak Railroad service, and the Central Illinois Regional Airport. The city of Bloomington is one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in Illinois with a well-balanced and diverse economy. New construction continues to enhance residential, industrial and commercial growth.

Follow this convenient link for more information:

Bloomington-Normal Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

Welcome to Galesburg!

A historic community set in the beautiful prairie land of west central Illinois, Galesburg is rich in the "quality of life" features. A city tied to Illinois by rails with one of the largest railroad yards in the United States, this railroad city offers unique shopping, arts, museums, excellent schools and colleges, outstanding health care, a solid economic base attracting national corporations, and a productive, reliable labor force.

Follow this convenient link for more information:

Galesburg Area Chamber of Commerce

Welcome to Pekin!

A community of over 33,000 located in the west central portion of the state and nestled along the eastern bank of the Illinois River, Pekin is located midway between Chicago and St. Louis. Situated just 10 miles to the south of Peoria, Illinois, this city is rich in both agricultural and industrial heritage; and is home to many manufacturing jobs and the corporate office for one the largest ethanol facilities in the nation.

The city has much to offer you and your family – top notch health care, an expansive 2,500 acre park system and an unequaled educational system. There are post-secondary educational learning opportunities with Illinois Central College and within a one hour commute of Bradley University, Illinois State University, Illinois Wesleyan University, University of Illinois and University of Illinois School of Medicine.

Follow this convenient link for more information:

Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce