You’re driving through Peoria, maybe looking for a specific part for that old Chevy in your garage, and you keep hearing about "Winner's Circle." If you’re like most people, you might be a little confused. Is it a bar? A racing shop? A tire place? Honestly, it’s been a few different things to different people over the last 50 years.
Winner's Circle Peoria IL has basically become a local institution, but it’s not exactly where it used to be. For decades, it sat on North Prospect Road. Now? It’s technically shifted over to Washington, but the Peoria crowd still claims it as their own. It’s one of those rare "brick and mortar" speed shops that hasn’t been swallowed whole by the internet.
The Evolution of the Speed Shop
Most folks think speed shops died out in the 90s when big-box retailers took over. They didn't. Winner's Circle is living proof. It started back in 1970—James and Linda Bingham are the names behind the curtain—and it has grown into a three-location mini-empire in Illinois.
While the Peoria-area location moved from its long-time home at 3506 N. Prospect Rd to 2390 Washington Rd in Washington, IL, the phone number (309-688-9165) stayed the same. It's a bit of a drive, maybe 15 minutes from the old spot, but if you need a specific Holley carburetor or a custom rim that doesn't look like plastic, you make the trip.
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You’ve got to appreciate the vibe inside. It smells like rubber, oil, and ambition. It’s the kind of place where the guys behind the counter, like Elliott or Bob, actually know what they’re talking about. You aren't just a transaction; you're a fellow gearhead.
Why People Keep Coming Back
It isn't just about buying a part. It's about the expertise. You can buy a starter on Amazon, sure. But can you ask Amazon why your 350 Chevy engine is making that weird clicking sound when it gets hot? Probably not.
- Custom Parts: They specialize in drag racing, circle track, and hot rod performance.
- Tires and Rims: They handle the stuff that your local chain tire shop might be afraid to touch.
- Expert Advice: This is the big one. These guys have been in the game for half a century.
The company also does a lot for the next generation. They sponsor things like the Hot Rodders of Tomorrow Engine Challenge. It’s kinda cool seeing high school kids tearing down engines in a race against the clock. They even have a program for little kids, ages 5 to 15, to get them comfortable with tools. It's about keeping the car culture alive in Central Illinois.
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Clearing Up the Confusion
Let’s get one thing straight because it gets messy on Google: there are a few "Winner's Circles" out there.
There is a Winner's Circle Bar & Grill in Chicago, but that’s not this. There is a "Winner's Circle Automotive" in Bethalto that does general repairs and oil changes. If you are looking for the performance shop near Peoria, you’re looking for Winner's Circle Speed & Custom.
If you go to the Washington location today, the hours are pretty standard:
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- Monday through Friday: 9 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM to 3 PM
- Sunday: Closed (because even racers need a day off)
The Reality of Shopping Local
Is it perfect? No. Some people have mentioned on reviews that the service can be a little "old school"—which is code for "blunt." If you walk in not knowing what you want, they might not hold your hand like a luxury car dealership would. But if you want the right part the first time, this is the spot.
Prices are actually pretty competitive. You’d think a small shop would be way more expensive than the big websites, but they stay in the ballpark. Plus, you save on shipping and the headache of returning a 40-pound box when the part doesn't fit.
Actionable Steps for Enthusiasts
If you’re planning a project or just need a reliable local source for performance gear, here is how to handle Winner's Circle:
- Call ahead. If you are looking for something super specific, give them a ring at 309-688-9165. They can check the inventory at the Joliet or East Moline stores too.
- Visit the new location. Don't go to Prospect Road. You’ll find a vacant lot or a different business. Set your GPS to 2390 Washington Rd, Washington, IL.
- Ask for advice. Don't just grab a part and leave. If you're stuck on a build, ask the staff. They’ve seen every mistake in the book.
- Check their online store. If you can't make the drive, winnerscircle.com is surprisingly robust.
Car culture in Peoria is deep. From the Saturday night cruises to the drag strips nearby, people here care about what's under the hood. Supporting a place like Winner's Circle keeps that ecosystem healthy. Whether you’re building a show car or just trying to get a few more horsepower out of your daily driver, it's worth the stop.