Where is Pekin, Illinois

Pekin is a city in central Illinois and the county seat of Tazewell County. It is about 10 miles south of Peoria along the Illinois River. The city is part of the Peoria metropolitan area and is known for its riverfront setting, historic downtown, Mineral Springs Park, and long history as a regional center for agriculture, manufacturing, and commerce.

Location Map of Pekin, Tazewell County, Illinois

About Map: The map shows the location of Pekin in Tazewell County, in the U.S. state of Illinois.

Pekin Map, Illinois

Where is Pekin Located?

Pekin is a city located in Tazewell County, Illinois, the United States. It sits along the Illinois River in central Illinois, about 10 miles south of Peoria and roughly 70 miles north of Springfield. East Peoria is around 10 miles north, while Morton is about 10 miles east. Pekin is positioned near 40.567° North latitude and 89.642° West longitude. The 2020 Census recorded 31,731 residents. The city covers about 15.25 square miles, or 39.50 square kilometers. Pekin serves as the county seat of Tazewell County and has a long history connected to river transportation, agriculture, manufacturing, and trade. Mineral Springs Park is one of its best-known recreational areas, with lakes, walking paths, gardens, and community facilities. The Illinois River forms an important geographic feature west of the city and supports wildlife, recreation, and commercial activity. Pekin was founded in 1829 and incorporated in 1849. A unique fact about the city is that it has served as the county seat since Tazewell County was organized in the 1820s. Pekin is also known for its annual Marigold Festival, a long-running community celebration held each September. Its location near Interstate 474, US-24, and the Peoria area gives residents and visitors convenient access to major transportation routes and regional attractions.

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Pekin City Facts

Distance from Pekin, IL to Nearby Cities

• Peoria, IL – 10 miles (16 km)
• East Peoria, IL – 10 miles (16 km)
• Morton, IL – 10 miles (16 km)
• Washington, IL – 15 miles (24 km)
• Creve Coeur, IL – 10 miles (16 km)
• Canton, IL – 25 miles (40 km)
• Chillicothe, IL – 25 miles (40 km)
• Metamora, IL – 20 miles (32 km)
• Lincoln, IL – 45 miles (72 km)
• Galesburg, IL – 45 miles (72 km)
• Bloomington, IL – 50 miles (80 km)
• Normal, IL – 50 miles (80 km)
• Macomb, IL – 55 miles (89 km)
• Springfield, IL – 70 miles (113 km)
• Jacksonville, IL – 90 miles (145 km)
• Champaign, IL – 100 miles (161 km)
• Decatur, IL – 75 miles (121 km)
• St. Louis, MO – 155 miles (249 km)

Top Attractions in Pekin

• Mineral Springs Park – A large city park with lakes, walking paths, gardens, playgrounds, sports facilities, and open recreational areas.
• Pekin Park District – A network of parks and recreation facilities serving the community with sports, trails, playgrounds, and outdoor programs.
• Pekin Marigold Festival – An annual September celebration featuring parades, entertainment, community events, and displays of the marigold, the city's official flower.
• Illinois River – The river west of Pekin provides opportunities for fishing, boating, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing.
• Pekin Historic Downtown – The city's traditional commercial center includes historic buildings, local businesses, restaurants, and civic landmarks.
• Pekin Public Library – A community institution offering local history resources, educational programs, and public services.
• Avanti's Dome – A local recreational and event facility used for sports, community activities, and gatherings.
• Forest Park Nature Center – A nearby Peoria-area nature center with wooded trails, native habitats, wildlife programs, and educational exhibits.

Airports Near Pekin, IL

• General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport (PIA) – 20 miles
• Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI) – 55 miles
• Decatur Airport (DEC) – 80 miles
• Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI) – 75 miles
• Quad City International Airport (MLI) – 90 miles

Sources:

Population and area data sourced from the United States Census Bureau (2020 Census). General city information referenced from the official Pekin city website and local government records.

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