10 Must Do's while in Quad Cities!

Tucked along the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, the Quad Cities—made up of Davenport and Bettendorf in Iowa, and Rock Island and Moline (plus East Moline!) in Illinois—offer a vibrant mix of small-town charm and big-city energy. Whether you're a local looking for new experiences or a traveler planning your next getaway, the QC area is packed with culture, history, outdoor adventure, and culinary delights. In this blog, we’ll dive into the must-visit spots and hidden treasures that make the Quad Cities a Midwest destination worth discovering.

Wildcat Den State Park

Wildcat Den State Park is a hidden gem which offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and local history. The park’s scenic trails wind through stunning sandstone bluffs, dense woods, and unique rock formations like "Steamboat Rock" and "Devil’s Punch Bowl." With plenty of peaceful picnic spots, it’s an ideal destination for hikers, history buffs, and anyone looking to escape into nature for a day.

Miss Effie’s Flower Farm

This was our first time at a U Pick Farm, and we absolutely loved it! Such gorgeous grounds and plenty of flowers to pick from, to make your own bouquet. Cathy, the owner, is such a great host and she also makes her own honey which we highly recommend! We use it every day and it’s delicious.

Old Oaks Winery

Whether you like reds, whites, sweet or dry wines, this winery has it all. They have an amazing outdoor patio looking over their fields which creates an awesome atmosphere especially when it’s not as busy (the rocking chairs were my fav!). They also host weddings which I am not surprised, as their grounds are beyond gorgeous.

The Brewed Book

I know we all love coffee, but what about a café that also has hundreds of used books that you can browse through in such a cozy aesthetic? We were in such awe as we stepped into this coffee shop because we have not seen a place like this before. Perfect place to start your morning even just to sip a coffee and hang out in this setting.

The Last Picture House

Movie theaters are cool, but what about watching a nostalgic movie on a rooftop amongst the stars?! This spot is a movie theater in itself: they have 2 rooms showing newest movies along with a full-on bar serving cinema themed drinks which are super fun. They offer outdoor movie nights on weekends, but plan ahead as they sell out quickly!

QC Murals

Quad Cities is full of fun street art which we always appreciate. Crazy to see how many new ones were added since our last visit! Some of our favorite ones that are featured here are:

- Arts Alley 1719 2^nd Ave, Rock Island

- Mercado on Fifth 423 12^th St, Moline

- Devon’s Complaint Dept 304 3^rd St, Davenport

Twin Span Brewing

If you are looking for delicious pub grub along with yummy beers, than this spot is a must! Their beer variety is outstanding- something for every palate, from light to bold and experimental brews. It is a perfect place for outdoor hangouts, trying unique beers, grabbing a bite with friends or family—even bringing your pup along.

Take Cover Tiki Club

This place is a new addition to QC and so worth visiting! There is no other place like this one in the area, so we know it has true potential! Their indoor aesthetic resembles a bit of a speakeasy that is little moodier while serving cocktails that are unique and refreshing. They also have a patio area where you can enjoy their concoctions in the sunshine.

Hotel Blackhawk

Hotel Blackhawk is a refined destination that balances historic elegance with contemporary comfort. Whether you're in town for business, culture, or leisure, the hotel offers a luxurious yet welcoming base—with standout amenities and an inimitable sense of place. Located right in the center of Davenport, it is the perfect spot for lots of attractions which are walking distance.

Mississippi River Distilling

Mississippi River Distilling Company offers a unique, small-town charm with big flavor, crafting high-quality spirits right on the banks of the Mississippi. Their cozy tasting room and riverside patio create the perfect setting to sample local favorites like Cody Road Bourbon and seasonal cocktails.

We hope you enjoy your trip to QC and find this quick list handy!

XoXo

Adri & Kam