The Grand Tour of West Bluff Homes is proud to present some of Peoria’s fine historical and architectural heritage on the 2011 Grand Tour. On Sunday, May 15, 2011 from 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., the general public is invited to tour four West Bluff homes, two apartments, and the Women’s Club. Many will be beautifully decorated by local florists including Geier Florist, Floral Expressions, Sterling Flower Shoppe, Marilyn’s Bow K, and Bob Monier. This will mark the 27th year the Grand Tour has had the privilege of highlighting these treasures and sharing them with the community.

The West Bluff began in the mid-1800s when stately mansions were built by Peoria’s most prominent citizens and lined High-Wine Street, Moss Avenue, and Randolph Avenue. Today the area includes Bradley Park, Bradley University and ten neighborhoods: Armstrong-Ellis, Arbor District, Columbia Terrace North, Cottage District, Orchard District, High-Wine, Uplands, Moss-Bradley, Randolph-Roanoke, and University East.

The homes that are in this year’s Grand Tour include: 802 N. Sheridan, A-1; 802 N. Sheridan, A-3; 802 W. Moss Ave.; 1723 W. Moss Ave.; 1118 N. Glenwood; 201 W. Columbia Terrace; and 301 NE Madison.

Funds raised from the tour are used to beautify the West Bluff. Ticket donations are $12 in advance and $15 the day of the tour. Tickets can be purchased from the following participating florists: Sterling Flower Shoppe, Geier Florist (West Peoria), Floral Expressions, and Marilyn’s Bow K Florist.

Tickets are also available at the Olde Hair Shoppe, West Peoria; Haddad’s Restaurant & cart, Main St., Peoria; rhythm Kitchen Music Café, SW Water St., Peoria; or from Committee Members. For more info call Connie Wright at 674-2330.