"If it plays in Peoria" has long been a benchmark of mainstreamism. Peoria, Illinois is the largest city on the Illinois River, and its charming river front plays up that feature in a big way. This town of about 115,000 is home to Caterpillar, the heavy-equipment manufacturer. Peoria also is home to Bradley University, a 9,000-acre parks system, the 10th oldest symphony orchestra in the United States, a thriving riverboat casino, and dozens of attractions, including museums, galleries, and shops.
