Peoria, Arizona 2025

Peoria, Arizona is a city located in the northwest valley of the Phoenix metropolitan area. As of 2021, the estimated population of Peoria is about 175,000 people, making it the ninth-largest city in Arizona. The city covers a total area of 172.3 square miles, with a diverse landscape that includes mountains, desert, and lakes.

The culture of Peoria is influenced by its diverse population, which includes a mix of Native American, Hispanic, and European heritage. The city is home to several museums and cultural centers, such as the Peoria Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts various plays, musicals, and concerts throughout the year. The Arizona Broadway Theatre, another popular cultural destination, presents a variety of Broadway-style productions.

Special events in Peoria include the annual Old Town Peoria Civil War and Bluegrass Festival, which celebrates the city's rich history and features live music, food, and reenactments of Civil War battles. Other popular events include the Peoria Art Festival, the Peoria Greek Festival, and the Peoria International Film Festival.

Local attractions in Peoria include the Rio Vista Recreation Center, a state-of-the-art facility that features a water park, fitness center, and various sports courts. The Peoria Sports Complex, home to the Seattle Mariners and San Diego Padres spring training, is another popular destination. For outdoor enthusiasts, the city offers numerous trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as several lakes for fishing and boating.

Peoria is known for its diverse food scene, which includes everything from traditional American cuisine to authentic Mexican and Asian dishes. Popular local restaurants include the Funky Monkey Cafe, serving unique twists on classic comfort food, and Gloria's Cafe, offering authentic Mexican dishes.

The people of Peoria are friendly and welcoming, with a strong sense of community. The city is known for its excellent schools, low crime rate, and affordable cost of living.

Peoria's history dates back to the Hohokam people, who inhabited the area over 1,000 years ago. The city was officially incorporated in 1954, and has since grown rapidly due to its proximity to Phoenix and its attractive location between the mountains and the desert. Today, Peoria is a thriving city that combines a rich history with modern amenities, making it an ideal place to live and visit.