As the former "Whiskey Capital of the World" before the Prohibition, Peoria was home to whiskey barons and other wealthy residents who settled down in what are now historic mansions in West Bluff. But along with these estates are more modest homes, making West Bluff a neighborhood that can fit the financial needs of just about any homebuyer. "It's a very eclectic group of people," says Rhonda Milburn, Realtor with Keller Williams Premier Realty, who has serviced West Bluff for more than 20 years. "You have artists, professors, physicians and everything in between. It's a very cohesive neighborhood." Bradley University brings a college-town atmosphere to the local businesses on Main Street, while other areas feel more suburban with nearby shopping centers.
From historic mansions to small bungalows
Mansions in the historic district date back to the mid-1800s, featuring eloquent architectural styles, including Second Empires, English Tudors, colonial-inspired designs and many more that beautify the neighborhood. "They don't build houses like this anymore – the detailing and the woodwork," says Milburn. "Some even have ballrooms on the third floor. A client of mine once said you can live like kings and queens here, and I couldn't agree more." Ranging from around $300,000 to $500,000, many of these stunning estates are surrounded by plentiful mature trees and set far back from their long front yards with circular driveways that add a majestic feeling to each property. Residents can also enjoy a simpler lifestyle in one of the neighborhood's many bungalows or Cape Cods. Some charming English-style cottages can be found scattered around the neighborhood as well. With a few feet between neighbors, these single-family homes sell for around $75,000 to $150,000.
The historic homes down high street vary from large lots to smaller homes.
Four square bungalow style home with brick accents in West Bluff.
Tutor style large homes are popular within the historic district of West Bluff.
Colonial brick homes look so cozy within the neighborhood of West Bluff.
West Bluff has a few smaller sized bungalow style homes outside of the grand historic district.
Grad Tutor revival homes are situated on large acreage within West Bluff.
There are many vintage homes within the neighborhood of West Bluff.
More simple colonial farmhouse homes are found within West Bluff.
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Big retailers and walkable Main Street with local shops
In the northern section of the neighborhood, locals can shop and dine around one big shopping center, which has a Walmart, Hobby Lobby and ALDI. While there are several national chain restaurants, residents can choose from many local establishments for various dining experiences. Connected offers an intimate, Italian-American fine-dining atmosphere. Meanwhile, Childers Eatery is a more casual spot for brunch and Big JJ's Fish & Chicken serves up delicious comfort foods in a small shop. On the south side of West Bluff near Bradley University, Main Street is a pedestrian-friendly area lined with more local shops and restaurants. College students and residents frequent One World, a staple corner restaurant famous for its hummus. Shoppers can also head to small retailers like Primitiques to find cute home décor created by local artisans and Lit. on Fire Books, a quaint bookshop with cozy couches and open mic sessions.
Childer's Eatery is a great place to stop for breakfast or lunch in West Bluff.
Childer's offers vegetarian eggs Benedict and freshly pressed juices in West Bluff.
One World in West Bluff creates craft coffee like peppermint mochas and many seasonal drinks.
Hobby Lobby is another great place to buy home decor in West Bluff.
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Diversity at Peoria Public Schools
Elementary students may attend one of several schools, including Whittier Primary, which receives a C-plus grade from Niche. Harold B. Dawson Junior Middle and Sterling Middle, both of which get a C-minus grade, feed into C-graded Peoria High, ranked the third-most diverse high school in the Peoria area. Students seeking post-secondary education can stay home in West Bluff by attending Bradley University, a private institution with more than 100 undergraduate and 30-plus graduate programs.
Whittier Primary School is located within West Bluff in Peoria.
Harold B. Dawson is located within the West Bluff area district.
Peoria High School has an overall C rating from Niche in West Bluff.
The West Bluff branch library is located near downtown and built with all brick and stone.
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A zoo, amphitheater and more at Glen Oak Park
Those looking for fresh air typically head to Glen Oak Park, a large green space with open grassy fields and tree-lined walkways used for relaxing strolls. The former playground has been demolished, but a new, all-accessible playground is under construction so every child can have a place to play. The park is also home to The Peoria PlayHouse, where children can learn and play in the interactive museum. Kids and adults alike have fun watching the animals at Peoria Zoo, another fun feature of Glen Oak Park. Milburn, who's a board member of the Peoria Zoological Society, says, "It's a very community-involved zoo. We have all sorts of events like Howl-Zoo-Ween during fall for kids and Zootini, a martini-tasting event for adults. The community also gets to name the baby animals after they're born." The fun continues at the park's amphitheater, which hosts annual community events, including the highly anticipated fireworks show every third of July.
Large ants are a fun ride on toy for kids outside of the Peoria Zoo in West Bluff.
The Peoria Playhouse Children's Museum is a fun indoor place for kids to enjoy when its colder.
Outside play area for children at the Peoria Zoo in West Bluff.
Swings are near the Zoo in West Bluff at a park with many other outdoor activities.
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West Bluff has easy access to the interstate 74 and other main roads.
CityLink bus routes to downtown Peoria
CityLink offers public transportation with bus stops along all the main roads. Depending on where locals live, the drive to downtown can be less than a mile or up to four miles. Locals also have easy access to Interstate 74, which leads directly to all the excitement of downtown and the riverfront.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the West Bluff neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
West Bluff
US
Homicide
6
4
Sexual Assault
6
4
Assault with Weapon
6
4
Robbery
5
4
Burglary
5
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
5
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
West Bluff Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in West Bluff, Peoria sell after 40 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in West Bluff, Peoria over the last 12 months is $83,000, up 19% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Great investment opportunity in the Uplands right across from Bradley University with its own parking and 2 stall detached garage. Unit 1 has 5 bedrooms, 2 full baths, kitchen, living room space and an enclosed porch. This unit has a finished attic which serves as the 5th bedroom. Unit 2 (basement unit) has 2 bedrooms, 1 full bath, kitchen and living room area. Location is close to the downtown
Outstanding investment opportunity! This fully furnished four-unit building is currently operated as apartments but is zoned commercial and previously housed businesses, offering flexible use and strong upside. All four units are delivered furnished, including bedroom furniture, living room furniture, and appliances. Units include in unit laundry and parking is provided. The building has been
PICTURES TO BE LOADED AND ROOM SIZES UPDATED 10/30/25 .Mostly all brick home offering timeless style and modern comfort. This spacious home offers a main floor ensuite, perfect for in-law quarters or transition to an office space. This large home is tucked away on a quiet dead-end court in a lovely, historic neighborhood. Inside, you'll find original hardwood floors , granite counter tops and a
2 story 2 bed /1.5 bath home with lots of new and old charm. Fenced in back yard. Unfinished basement. Laundry hook up’s in kitchen! Drive way parking. Central AC and brand new furnace! Tenant to provide stove and fridge, washer and dryer. Tenant is responsible for lawn care & snow removal. Tenant pays ameren, water and $35 monthly for sewer & trash. Max 2 pets with $250 non refundable deposit
This thoughtfully renovated one-bedroom community pairs comfort and convenience with top-tier amenities. Residents enjoy a quiet, secure environment featuring key fob access, HD security cameras, and a virtual doorman for seamless guest and delivery access. All utilities, parking, and high-speed internet are included in your rent, with fully furnished options available upon request.The
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