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Discover the Caterpillar Visitors Center Tour in Illinois

Get an up-close look at the world of heavy machinery at the Caterpillar Visitors Center in Peoria. This immersive museum experience showcases the history, innovation, and engineering behind Caterpillar’s legendary construction machines—from massive mining trucks to powerful excavators and dozers. Visitors explore interactive exhibits, climb into actual machines, and learn how Cat equipment is used around the globe.
Why it’s special: Nowhere else can you sit inside a two-story mining truck, walk through life-size equipment displays, and learn how Caterpillar shapes infrastructure worldwide. The center blends museum-style exhibits with hands-on engineering experiences for all ages.

History/Story of the Caterpillar Visitors Center

Opened in 2012, the Caterpillar Visitors Center was created to celebrate the company’s heritage in Peoria—where Caterpillar began building equipment over a century ago. The center highlights Caterpillar’s innovations in construction, agriculture, mining, energy, and sustainability, while commemorating the people and technologies that helped the brand become a global leader.

What You’ll See & Do

Climb inside a massive mining truck and explore its cab
View full-size Cat machines and cross-sections of engines and hydraulics
Watch immersive videos about equipment missions and global projects
Explore exhibits on engineering, sustainability, and Caterpillar’s manufacturing history
Learn about machine control systems, simulators, and modern technology

Visiting Information

Hands-On Elements
Guests can sit inside machine cabs, test simulators, explore engine components, and interact with touchscreen displays that demonstrate how equipment operates.

Photo/Video Policy
Photography is allowed throughout most exhibit areas.

Souvenirs & Extras

Cat-branded apparel, toys, and collectibles
Scale models of Caterpillar machines
Educational items and books
On-site theater presentations

Practical Info
The Caterpillar Visitors Center is typically open Tuesday–Saturday between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM, with last admission about one hour before closing.

Pricing

Tour Price:

Adults: ~$7
Seniors (55+): ~$6
Children (3–12): ~$3
Children under 3: Free
Groups: Discounts available with advance reservation

Admission includes full access to exhibits, theaters, interactive stations, and all machine displays.

Nearby

Peoria Riverfront Museum — Art, history, and science exhibits
Peoria Zoo — Family-friendly wildlife experience
Forest Park Nature Center — Trails and nature programs

FAQs

1. Can I climb inside the big mining truck?
Yes! Guests can enter the cab of the enormous Cat 797 mining truck—one of the center’s most popular attractions.

2. How long does a visit usually take?
Most visitors spend 1–2 hours exploring the exhibits and interactive displays.

3. Is the Visitors Center kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Children love the hands-on displays, simulators, and giant machines.

4. Are guided tours offered?
The center is self-guided, but staff members are available throughout the exhibits to answer questions.

5. Is the facility fully accessible?
Yes. The center is accessible, with ramps, elevators, and wide exhibit spaces.