Small-town living on the outskirts of Peoria
What began as a rowdy 1800s mining town has grown into a quiet yet thriving community on the outskirts of Peoria. “We’re just your typical Midwest small town,” says Derek Roemer, supervisor for Limestone Township. Stately oak trees line the wide residential streets, and homes are comfortably spaced apart. Most backyards are big enough to create a garden or sitting area for get-togethers. "Bartonville is a small, quiet and cozy place to live," says Bryson Smith, a Realtor with Keller Williams Premier Realty. “And you can't beat the affordability.” The walkable neighborhood of Bartonville offers small-town charm, budget-friendly housing and convenient airport access.
Indoor and outdoor fun
Alpha Park is an 18-acre green space featuring a web of trails beneath a canopy of mature trees. The park is also home to two playgrounds, a disc golf course, a basketball court and a softball complex. Swimmers can head to the Limestone Township Pool, open from Memorial Day to the start of the school year.
The Alpha Park Library, established in 1972, is a spot where locals can check out the latest bestseller or take a yoga class.
Popular shopping and dining spots
Tyroni's on Adams Street is a community staple that has served fresh Italian cuisine for over 30 years. Bartonville’s nightlife begins with BG Karaoke Saloon, which also hosts live bands.
ALDI is the newest addition for local grocery shopping. For other essentials, residents visit the town's center, which consists of two streets. "Garfield Avenue is the main drag through the 'top of the hill,'" Roemer says. "And Adams Street is the main drag through the 'bottom of the hill.’" Presleys Outdoors on Garfield is a popular spot, providing fishing and hunting enthusiasts with gear and supplies.
Streets lined with vintage bungalows
Bartonville's residential and commercial district concentrates at the center, with the airport to the west and Interstate 474 running north to south along the east side. Laid out in a grid, homes line the straight, narrow roads. Houses sit atop neat, squared lawns dotted with towering oaks and adorned with decorative bushes. Ranch-style homes and bungalows that date back to the 1940s are among the most common styles. Three-bedroom homes sell on average for $100,000 to $200,000, while houses with one to two bedrooms tend to go for between $50,000 and $150,000.
Events for every season
When it comes to family fun, Bartonville has plenty of activities and events. In June, the town holds the Pool Days fundraiser to maintain the facility. Every August, locals indulge in seafood at the Freemans Fish Fry, and throughout the summer, there are three concerts in the park. During the holiday season, community members are invited to purchase a tree to commemorate a loved one, for celebratory causes, or to spread holiday cheer. The trees are free for public viewing in Alpha Park.
Schools within walking distance
Bartonville features a range of schools within its borders, offering both public and private options. “You’ll find that most kids walk or bike to school,” says Smith. Students can attend Kindergarten through grade 8 at Monroe Elementary School, which received an A from Niche. Students can finish their education at Limestone Community High School, which scored a B-minus on the site. Limestone High is known for its award-winning robotics team.
The General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport
Most residents use a car to get around, as public transportation is limited.
For long-distance travel, the General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport is located in the northwestern portion of the neighborhood.
Written By
Stephanie Davison
Photography Contributed By
JJ Starr
