This isn't your average museum! Your visit begins with a virtual ride in the bed of a massive two-and-a-half story Cat 797F Mining Truck. Learn how Caterpillar's story began as two companies came together to build Caterpillar on the foundation of innovation and customer focus. Unleash your inner engineer as you design your very own Cat machine. Test your skills on a simulator to see first-hand what it's like to operate equipment the way our operators do, and no visit is complete without climbing in a track-type tractor.
On October 20, 2012, the Doug Oberhelman Caterpillar Visitors Center opened its doors for the very first time. Since then, we have welcomed nearly half a million visitors from over 30 countries and all 50 US states. Through beautiful storytelling, the history of Peoria's industrial roots comes alive for guests of all ages. A hands-on playground of yellow iron lets you explore the present. And you can learn about sustainable solutions that will take our world well into the future. Thank you for being part of our story!
Future engineers, scientists, and kids of all ages are invited to Engineering Day 2023 at the Peoria Riverfront Museum and Caterpillar Visitors Center. Exciting and engaging engineering activities will be provided throughout both museums by local engineering groups, who are also sponsoring general admission for this free day.
Tuesday - Saturday
10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
(last ticket / entry at 3:30 p.m.)
110 S.W. Washington Street
Peoria, IL 61602
Tickets are available at the ticket counter.
For Caterpillar employee and retiree tickets, please present your ID at the ticket counter.
The Caterpillar Visitors Center is closed all day in observance of National Holidays: