Tentative Schedule: *Times & locations subject to change
THURSDAY
9:00 am Attendees arrive at Par-A-Dice to board transportation
9:15 – 10:15 am Stop 1: Marriott Pere Marquette
Kick the day off with a welcome by ISAE leaders, Discover Peoria, and an introduction to the events for the retreat. We will also enjoy brunch and a tour of the Marriott Pere Marquette and see how this sophisticated hotel in the heart of downtown has used its rich history and elegant architectural designs to build a grand venue for your next meeting or event.
10:30 – 11:15 am Stop 2: Caterpillar Visitors Center
We will tour this attraction in downtown Peoria, which if you are looking for a unique location to bring your next group, then this is just the place. Tour the gallery where you can sit in the back of a massive two-and-a-half story CAT 797F Mining Truck, design your own CAT machine, and reflect on the past and look towards the future of CAT and its impact on the world.
11:40 am – Noon Stop 3: Holiday Inn & Shoppes at Grand Prairie
After a short bus ride, we will drive through the Grand Prairie area making a stop at the Holiday Inn. The upscale design of the Holiday Inn and Suites at Grand Prairie will have you in awe from the moment you walk through the door. Small, with 6,000 sq ft of meeting space, this one is mighty and packs a punch with state-of-the-art A/V, exceptional catering, beautiful lighting and an incredible staff, it is the total package. Plus, it is surrounded by popular shopping destinations, fine & casual dining, and the Louisville Sluggers Sports complex. Our hosts will graciously send us with a parting gift of iced coffee and snacks.
12:00 – 2:30 pm Wildlife Prairie Park
Attendees will be up for a “walk on the wild side” as we visit Wildlife Prairie Park, a short bus ride from downtown. The 1,800-acre zoological park is home to more than 180 animals native to the area, including bison, black bears, cougars, elk and wolves! Enjoy spectacular wildlife viewing all year long. They offer something for everyone. A great way to offer team building, networking, and fun spaces for your next event. We will have lunch and participate in a couple of team-building opportunities. We will be outside, make sure to be weather prepared.
3:00 pm Return to Par-A-Dice for Check-in/Refresh
3:45 pm Bus departs from hotel for afternoon festivities
4:00 – 5:00 pm Warehouse District
Peoria is determined to reinvigorate its Warehouse District, transforming it into a vibrant, mixed use residential and commercial neighborhood. These historic buildings are developed and filled with restaurants, coffee shops, and businesses. We will take a drive through the area checking out a few of the locations, and the opportunities for your events.
5:15 – 6:00 pm Embassy Suites Patio Party
Attached to the largest hotel conference center in Peoria, the Embassy overlooks the Illinois River, is next to East Peoria River Front Park and five minutes from the downtown area's historic sites and museums. The venue features 226 guest rooms, and 25 meeting rooms with over 35,000 sq. ft of meeting space. This stop will include heavy appetizers, and beverages will be available for purchase.
6:30 – 7:30 pm Par-A-Dice/Tin Lizard
Docked upon the Illinois River, the Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino couples Las Vegas excitement with the finest central Illinois hospitality. Three decks offer a wide selection of new slot and table games, as well as old favorites. The award-winning hotel and five-star restaurant make the Par-A-Dice an excellent choice for any special occasion. Attendees will have appetizers, pizza and dessert. Drinks will be available for purchase.
7:45 – 11:00 pm Networking Night Out (8bit Arcade Bar, Kelleher's, Thyme, Night Jar & Matilda's)
Unwind after a busy day by visiting some of the local establishments in the area. These provide opportunities for private events, fun-networking and more. Beverages will be available for purchase on your own.
FRIDAY
*Attendees check-out of hotel & drive to Peoria Civic Center
8:30 am – Noon Peoria Civic Center
Close out the event over breakfast as we celebrate the friendships and memories made. Hear from ISAE Leaders on the future of the group. Tour the Civic Center and finish out the event with the education session, “Future-Proofing Your Organization: Trends, Tech & Tactics”. Where we will dive into topics including - Strategic planning, AI integration, emerging member expectations, and digital transformation. Learn how other organizations are adapting and changing for the future of their organizations. This program will include CAE credits (pending).