20 Attractions to Explore Near Quad City Botanical Center

Fort Armstrong Historic Site is a national historic landmark, constructed in 1816 and served as a military outpost until being decommissioned in 1836. A strong symbol of America’s westward expansion at the time, it also provided support for missions ranging from Native American removal to trade security to combatting piracy. Visitors of this site today will find a variety of attractions and reenactments held throughout the year giving insight into what daily life was like for soldiers.

Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse is a one-of-a-kind facility that provides a unique entertainment experience. The theater hosts Broadway musicals and plays, as well as comedy acts and concerts throughout the year. In addition to the stage performances, guests can enjoy delicious meals served in the elegant dining room before the show begins. The doors open at 5 p.m., giving guests plenty of time to peruse their menus and make selections before curtain call.

Lock and Dam No. 15 is a crucial component of the ecosystems of the area. This civil engineering structure helps to regulate the population of aquatic species and control flooding in an area around the confluence of the Mississippi and Rock Rivers. Watercraft travel along larger waterways after moving through its locks, beginning at a nine-foot depth before reaching a deeper channel at 28 feet.

Schwiebert Riverfront Park is the perfect spot for outdoor recreation enthusiasts. It's situated along the scenic Mississippi River and boasts over 50 miles of shoreline. One can rent a boat and explore the river, or fish from one of the park's many access points. There are also numerous campsites around the park and plenty of trails to enjoy while hiking or biking. With its unique island ecology, it's home to several species of birds and mammals, making it an ideal spot for bird watchers.

The Broadway National Historic District, is known for its Victorian-style homes that line the historic street. Along with these homes, the district also contains businesses, parks, churches and a former armory. With over 100 years of history taken in through these features, it's no wonder why Broadway is such an iconic piece of the area. Visitors can explore not just the beautiful architecture but also various historical monuments.

Hose Station No. 1, located in Davenport, Iowa, is a historic fire station that played a crucial role in the city's fire protection services during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Built in 1882, Hose Station No. 1 served as one of the primary fire stations in Davenport, housing fire engines, equipment, and personnel dedicated to responding to emergencies and combating fires in the area.

The Davenport Skybridge is a distinctive architectural landmark located in downtown Davenport, Iowa. Completed in 2005, the Skybridge spans over River Drive and connects the RiverCenter convention center with a parking ramp and hotel complex.

The Dillon Memorial is a historic structure located in LeClaire Park, near downtown Davenport, Iowa, United States. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) in 1983 and on the Davenport Register of Historic Properties in 1993. It is commonly referred to as the Dillon Fountain.

The Centennial Bridge is a unique structure that crosses the Mississippi River into Iowa. It was opened in 1940 and is notable for its combination of concrete arches and steel truss elements, making it the first lift-type bridge in the United States to incorporate both features. Spanning nearly a mile, its two navigation spans rise ninety feet above the river's normal pool levels to provide navigational clearance for larger vessels.

The River Music Experience, located in Davenport, Iowa, is a dynamic cultural organization dedicated to celebrating and promoting music and musical heritage in the Quad Cities region. Established in 2004, the River Music Experience serves as a vibrant hub for musicians, music enthusiasts, and the community at large.

The Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival is an annual music event held in Davenport, Iowa, dedicated to celebrating the life and legacy of jazz legend Bix Beiderbecke. Established in 1971, the festival has become one of the premier jazz gatherings in the Midwest, attracting musicians, enthusiasts, and fans from around the world.

The Davenport RiverCenter is a multifaceted entertainment, convention, and shopping complex located in downtown Davenport, Iowa, along the banks of the Mississippi River. Opened in 1983, the RiverCenter serves as a hub of activity for residents and visitors alike, offering a wide range of amenities and attractions.

J.H.C. Petersen's Sons' Store, located in Davenport, Iowa, was a historic department store that operated from the late 19th century into the early 20th century. Founded by J.H.C. Petersen, a Danish immigrant, the store became a prominent retail establishment in the region, offering a wide range of merchandise and goods to the local community.

LeClaire Park, situated in Scott County, Iowa, is a scenic riverfront park offering a wide array of recreational activities and amenities. Located along the Mississippi River, the park covers a significant area and provides stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape.

The Figge Art Museum, located in Davenport, Iowa, is a prominent cultural institution dedicated to the celebration and exploration of visual arts. Opened in 2005, the museum serves as a vibrant hub for artistic expression, education, and community engagement.

The Mississippi Lofts and Adler Theatre complex is a notable landmark in Davenport, Iowa, comprising both historic and contemporary elements. The Adler Theatre, originally built in 1931 as the RKO Orpheum Theater, is a beautifully restored performing arts venue known for its Art Deco architecture and hosting a variety of cultural events including concerts, Broadway shows, and community performances.

The Municipal Inn, located in Davenport, Iowa, is a historic building that once served as a municipal lodging house for travelers. Built in 1896, it was originally known as the Municipal Lodging House and provided affordable accommodations for transient workers and individuals in need.

The Quad City Symphony Orchestra (QCSO) is a renowned cultural institution located in Davenport, Iowa, serving the Quad Cities region. Founded in 1915, the QCSO has a rich history of providing exceptional classical music performances and educational programs to audiences of all ages.

The Renwick Building is a historic commercial structure located in downtown Davenport, Iowa. Constructed in 1898, it was designed by the prominent local architect Frederick G. Clausen. The building is an excellent example of the Renaissance Revival architectural style popular during the late 19th century.

The Davenport Public Library, located in Davenport, Iowa, is a vital community resource and cultural institution serving residents of all ages. Founded in the late 19th century, the library has evolved over the years to meet the changing needs of the community while preserving its commitment to providing access to knowledge, information, and literacy.