Two days before seniors walk across the stage at graduation, many will participate in a different kind of walk that doesn’t involve caps, gowns or diplomas.
Senior Walk, the annual bar crawl for seniors, is a time when many will wake up earlier than they have all semester to get started on a long day of drinking.
So, if you’re a senior, make sure you get a good night’s rest on May 13, and wake up ready to sample specials at almost every bar in Peoria.
And don’t forget your walking shoes.
Breakfast on the Riverfront
For those who aren’t messing around, Senior Walk starts early at 8 a.m. at Kelleher’s, located on the Riverfront.
“We serve breakfast sandwiches called The Hangover,” General Manager Billy Blasek said. “It’s basically an egg with Irish bacon, two Irish bangers, which are sausages, and American cheese served on a Kaiser roll.”
Kelleher’s also serves mimosas, screwdrivers and Bloody Marys. Goose Island drafts are $3.
Blasek said if students choose to drive to Kelleher’s, they can leave their cars in the parking lot all day and night without worrying about getting towed.
Also on the Riverfront, Martini’s will open around 8:30 a.m. Dessert martinis will be $4, including all chocolate martinis and cake and pie martinis. Domestic bottles will be $2.
Next, head over to Old Chicago to try the many kinds of beer that are offered. On the day of Senior Walk, Old Chicago will serve Big Ass Beers, or 25-ounce beers. They will be $4.75 for the domestic variety, and $5.50 for all other kinds.
Downtown drink specials
After fueling up on the Riverfront, make sure you hit up every Downtown bar you can stomach for cheap drinks and great food.
Aaron Forinash, the owner of Sully’s on Adams Street, said students usually show up after the lunch rush.
“At that point we can turn up the music a little bit, and it will be more of a pub drinking atmosphere and less of a dining atmosphere,” he said.
At Sully’s, you can enjoy $2.75 bottles and well drinks, $6 pitchers and $4 bombs. You can also challenge your friends to a game of Sully’s pong or flippy cup.
Next, head over to Richard’s for a menu full of some of the best food on earth. The cheese fries cost $4, and are a must if you’re looking to fill up before heading back out. Richard’s also has a full bar if you’re looking for something to wash the fries down with.
If you pass Mushrush and you are still looking for something to snack on, stop in for a $2.50 hot dog bar. Guinness drafts will be $3, and you can treat all your friends to SKYY bombs for $3.50 each.
If you have a taste for pizza, Hoops is always a good choice. Also visit J’Prees, S.O.P.’s, Hydrate and Gin Joint.
And while you’re downtown, stop by the United Methodist Church’s parking lot for some free food and water. What better way to make it up the hill?
Right in our backyard
Students usually make their ways to Gorman’s in Campustown between 4 and 5 p.m. If you’re hungry, you can get pizza, ranging anywhere from $6.25 to $15.95.
Try the pickle pizza for something unique yet delicious.
The specials at Gorman’s will be $1.25 for Coors Light drafts, $2 you-call-its and $3 bombs.
Also visit Elbo Room on Main Street if you want to try your hand at karaoke before heading to Gorman’s.
Farewell on Farmington
You’re in for more cheap drinks and fun if you’re man enough to trek all the way to the Farmington bars.
On the day of Senior Walk, Crusens will have $2 you-call-its, and there will be no cover for Bradley students. If you are looking to dance, KissFM will be playing music.
Cam’s has $1 bottles on Thursdays for those of you who have already broken the bank before heading to Farmington.
Also visit Bullwinkle’s and The Dormitory before arriving at Jimmy’s for the last stop of Senior Walk.
Seniors usually get to Jimmy’s around 9 or 10 p.m., and the free popcorn is typically very popular.
Also try the pretzels and cheese for $1.50 as a late night snack.
Although Senior Walk is all about celebrating after four years of work, don’t forget to stay safe by drinking water and taking breaks to sit down.
By pacing yourself, you will be able to start your day with a mimosa at Kelleher’s, and end your day with some popcorn at Jimmy’s.