Small-town living just a stone’s throw from the city
Cradled along the edge of the Illinois River and just 5 miles south of Peoria is the small community of Creve Coeur. This neighborhood prides itself on its hometown-friendly atmosphere. “What I like about the community is that it’s small. Everyone is open to discussing everything,” says Greg Weydert, director of Creve Coeur Public Library. “I like the idea that it’s right next to a big city, but it doesn’t have big city issues.” Despite its small population of 5,000, this community features a downtown with unique restaurants, a nature preserve and river access, providing ample opportunity for both dining and outdoor recreation right inside the neighborhood.
Fun on the waterfront and at Fort Creve Coeur Park
The historic Fort Creve Coeur Park is a nature reprieve on the neighborhood’s west side, providing a campground site, a playground, picnic areas, hiking trails and an herb garden. The area also serves as a nature preserve, containing dozens of prairie plant species native to the region. On the neighborhood's east side is the Creve Coeur Disc Golf Course, located off Groveland Street.
For some fun on the waterfront, the Don Burch Boat Dock and Picnic area provides a spot for fishing, paddle boating, and kayaking along the Greater Peoria Canoe and Kayak Trail.
A main street full of mom-and-pop’s
Various mom-and-pop shops dot Main Street, running down the middle of Creve Coeur. Larry's Driftwood Pizza is a community staple, as well as the only pizzeria in the neighborhood. For a relaxing meal by the Illinois River, Kuchie’s on the Water serves classic American fare on a riverfront deck. For groceries and home goods, Target, Costco, and Aldi are located in the neighboring community of East Peoria, just 2 miles north.
Compact bungalows and ranch-style homes
With the Illinois River to the west and major thoroughfares to the north, south and east, Creve Coeur consists of a mix of winding roads with branching cul-de-sacs and small clusters of grids. Narrow sidewalks provide walkability throughout the residential area. Bungalows and ranch-style homes line broad streets peppered with mature trees. These are primarily one-story properties built around the 1940s and 1950s and tend to be on the smaller end, rarely exceeding three bedrooms or over 2,000 square feet. Prices range from $10,000 to $50,000 for fixer-uppers and $80,000 to $200,000 for turn-key homes.
The Creve Coeur School District
The Creve Coeur School District serves the residents of Creve Coeur. Students can begin their education at Lasalle Elementary School, which holds a C-minus on Niche. They can continue their education at Parkview Junior High School, which received a C on Niche and finish their education at East Peoria High School, which holds a B-minus on Niche. East Peoria High offers Work-Based Learning Programs where students can participate in courses in high-demand careers such as Certified Nursing Assistant, EMS, EMR, Welding, and Education.
A connected community
The Creve Coeur Public Library serves as a prominent community outreach organization. Residents can utilize the library’s 3D Printing, book clubs, notary and early literacy services. The community of 5,000 also comes together for annual seasonal events. “In the summer, Family Days is a weekend event with a small-town carnival,” Weydert says. “We have a parade, food, and ball tournament. Then there’s the annual Christmas Tree Lighting in December.”
Getting around Creve Coeur
Bisected by U.S. Route 24, Creve Coeur residents have a direct connection to the nearest city of Peoria, just 5 miles north. The community is also bordered by Interstate 474 and within close proximity to Interstate 74. Though most residents use a car to get around, public transportation is available through CityLink, which services one bus stop on North Main Street.
For longer-distance travel, the General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport is 8 miles northwest of Creve Coeur.
Written By
Stephanie Davison
