JD Dalfonso

An initiative to create a taxing district aimed at boosting tourism and hotel stays in Peoria took a step forward this week. The proposal would impose a 1.5% tax on short-term hotel room rentals, with the proceeds used to support marketing and other programs aimed at attracting out-of-town visitors.

A national gaming, entertainment and tech festival is coming to downtown Peoria beginning next year, with organizers expecting to attract tens of thousands of guests.

Owners of Sarah Beth's Homemade Dips in Hanna City and Tres Rojas Winery in Washington were presented with their awards for being selected among this year’s winners in the state’s “Illinois Made Makers” campaign.

Nearly four years since the onset of COVID-19, the Peoria area’s hotel and tourism industries have bounced back well, according Discover Peoria president and CEO JD Dalfonso.