The Quad Cities straddle the Mississippi River in east-central Iowa and northwestern Illinois and offer a wide array of one-of-a-kind attractions, enticing events, delicious restaurants, and great opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Moline on the Illinois side is home to the John Deere Pavilion & World Headquarters. The Pavilion is home to hands-on exhibits and examples of the famed agricultural manufacturer’s iconic equipment, and the headquarters building was designed by legendary architect Eero Saarinen. Want to catch a baseball game? Head to Davenport’s Modern Woodmen Park, the home to the Quad Cities River Bandits (a Class-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals) that is consistently named one of the best minor league ballparks in America. Interstate 74, which connects Bettendorf, Iowa, with Moline, Illinois, is one of the only interstate bridges that offers bike and pedestrian paths; don’t miss the stunning views of the Mississippi River from the lookout in the middle of the bridge. Fans of TV’s “American Pickers” can travel to neighboring LeClaire to find Antique Archaeology, the store that launched the History Channel show.
Visitors to the Quad Cities should also bring their appetites—the area is home to delicious restaurants and other outstanding food options. The Freight House Farmers’ Market, located on the banks of the Mississippi River in Davenport, is open year-round (the outdoor market runs May through October) and boasts hundreds of vendors. Lagomarcino’s, a turn-of-the-century ice cream parlor, has locations in Moline and Davenport and is well-known for its sweet treats and homemade chocolates. Moline’s Mercado on Fifth is an outdoor summertime night market featuring taco trucks, live Latin music, vendors, retailers, and children’s activities. Diners looking for outstanding views can find them—and great food—at The River Room in East Moline or UP Skybar in Davenport.
Come explore this collection of amazing Mississippi River communities today!
