Welcome to East Peoria, Illinois! Moving to a new place is an exciting adventure, full of possibilities! We are eager to warmly welcome you and come alongside of you as you adjust to life in East Peoria. We offer many services and activities to promote friendship and provide opportunity for you to meet Americans and other internationals, practice your English, travel to some U.S. locations, and share holiday meals. Students, visiting scholars, and spouses of all nationalities and religions may participate. Families are always welcome.
Please take advantage of these special activities and services for newly arriving students and scholars.
Airport Pick-Up & Temporary Housing
We are happy to help you get settled into life in Illinois. We offer an alternative option to taking a taxi, bus, or Uber to and from the airport. A friendly volunteer from International Friendships can welcome you at the airport no matter the time of your arrival, assist you with your luggage, and provide transportation to campus, your apartment, or your host home. Our volunteers can also provide up to four days of temporary housing. Staying with a host will give you opportunity to make a new friend, learn more about East Peoria from a local resident, enjoy a home cooked meal, and receive assistance during your first few days in a new place.
Sign up for airport pickup and/or temporary housing
Local and State Bus Service:
- CityLink: Public transportation around Peoria and East Peoria area
- Peoria Charter Bus: to and from Chicago Airports