20 Attractions to Explore Near Bickelhaupt Arboretum

The Clinton, Iowa Riverfront is a scenic and recreational area along the banks of the Mississippi River. The riverfront area is known for its natural beauty, offering panoramic views of the Mississippi River. Parks, green spaces, and walking paths enhance the scenic experience for residents and visitors.

NelsonCorp Field is a stadium in Clinton, Iowa. It is primarily used for baseball, and is operated by and is the home field of the Clinton LumberKings collegiate summer baseball team of the Prospect League. It was built in 1937 and its capacity is roughly 5,500 fans.

The Clinton Area Showboat Theatre is recognized for hosting a variety of theatrical productions, including plays, musicals, and performances featuring local and sometimes professional actors. The theater aims to provide a cultural and artistic outlet for the community.

St. Boniface Church is a former parish church of the Diocese of Davenport. The church was founded in the town of Lyons, which is now the north side of Clinton, Iowa, United States. The church building is now a museum named The Catholic Historical Center at St. Boniface, with exhibits about the history of the Clinton area Catholic community, and an archive of local Catholic church artifacts and records. The church was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2012.

De Immigrant is a unique structure that is steeped in history. It was constructed in 1928 by Dutch immigrants Jacob and Hillegonda Maasland who were living on their family farm. The windmill features traditional Dutch-style architecture; its 60ft tall frame and rotating blades are made of galvanized steel and are still functional today. As an iconic landmark in Whiteside County, the windmill stands as a reminder of the area's Dutch roots.

The Mississippi River Lock Dam Number Thirteen is more than a century old and still plays an important role in keeping the Mississippi River navigable. At this location, water flow is restricted by 12 gates that control the level of the river between the Rock Island Pool and pools farther east. The dam also allows passage for boat traffic when open, limiting erosion from swift currents. An observation area on White Oaks Bend near the dam offers a scenic view of the area.

Morrison Rockwood State Park is the perfect destination for outdoor lovers. Located within the Loess Hills region of northwestern Illinois, the park encompasses 684 acres and features rolling hills, historical sites and woodlands full of wildlife. The woodlands were once a farm owned by the Holcomb family who farmed it from 1831-1994. Visitors can explore special interests including glacial history, natural areas, birdwatching and recreational activities.

The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge is truly a sight to behold. Spanning 261 miles of the beautiful Upper Mississippi River, this refuge is one of the largest wildlife refuges in the entire United States. The refuge is home to a variety of fish and wildlife habitats like moisture filled prairies, forests, islands and backwaters. Visitors can explore this wonderland of nature by taking guided boat tours that showcase the best of what the refuge has to offer.

The Buffalo Bill Cody Homestead, located in Scott County, Iowa, is a historic site that preserves the birthplace and early life of William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody, the legendary American frontiersman and showman. The homestead consists of the original farmhouse where Buffalo Bill was born in 1846, along with several outbuildings and a visitor center.

The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge is a picturesque landscape created from the tributaries of the Mississippi River. From crystal clear rivers and ponds to wooded areas overflowing with diverse wildlife, it's an area teeming with life. Spend the day wandering along tree-lined trails or take a canoe out onto the calming waters and keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, egrets, pelicans, migrating waterfowl, and other creatures.

Lost Grove Lake is a scenic reservoir located near Princeton, Iowa. Completed in 2012, the lake was created as part of a flood control project and has since become a popular destination for outdoor recreation and nature enthusiasts.

Havencrest Castle is a beautiful 19th-century castle built by an Eastern-European immigrant family, it boasts a Romanesque Revival style and remains remarkably intact to this day. The castle features 30 rooms on two floors, four towers that offer stunning views of nearby Shullburg Valley, ornate stonework, grand staircases, and extravagant hand-painted ceilings. It served as the family’s residence between 1898 until 1951 and is now open for tours and special events such as weddings.

The Buffalo Bill Museum in Iowa is dedicated to preserving the legacy and memory of the famous American frontiersman, William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody. Located in LeClaire, Iowa, the museum offers visitors a comprehensive look into the life and times of Buffalo Bill, who was known for his adventures as a soldier, buffalo hunter, scout, and showman.

The Walnut Grove Pioneer Village in Iowa is a living history museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the pioneer life of the 19th century. Located in Scott County, the village consists of a collection of historic buildings, artifacts, and exhibits that recreate the atmosphere of a typical Midwestern pioneer settlement.

The Savanna-Sabula Bridge, located in Illinois, is a magnificent engineering feat. The bridge is approximately 2,500 feet long and runs from Savanna to Sabula across the Mississippi River. It took three years of construction to complete the project and opened up a new transportation outlet for travelers and commercial goods. With an impressive strength rating (200 Ton) and great design qualities, the bridge has continued to serve as a safe crossing option since 2010.

Prophetstown State Recreation Area is a paradise for outdoorsy types. Located along the banks of the Rock River and Thompson’s Lake, it’s an ideal destination for fishing, boating, camping and picnicking. The picturesque park also contains over five miles of hiking trails that wind through prairies and landscapes with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Open year-round the recreation area has several pavilions that can be reserved for parties or family gatherings as well as a boat ramp.

Mississippi Palisades State Park, is a must-see destination for outdoor adventurers. From 45 magnificent scenic overlooks to the 4500 miles of hiking trails, this park has something for everyone. Wildlife viewing opportunities are also abundant in the area; you might be lucky enough to spot an eagle or white-tailed deer! Nature lovers can take advantage of nearby camping sites and rent canoes to explore the peaceful backwaters of the state park.

Mississippi Palisades State Park offers a picturesque view of the Mississippi River and its rocky bluffs. This park is part of the Jo Daviess County Forest Preserve. Outdoor adventurers go here for fishing, boating, camping, hiking and more. The trails are perfect for nature walks or biking, while rocky shores are prime real estate for an afternoon picnic. With approximately five miles of river frontage, waterskiing and canoeing provide visitors with an unforgettable experience.

Mount Carroll is a small village located in the beautiful hills of northern Carroll County, Illinois. The village is known for its picturesque 18th century architecture and its bustling Main Street lined with both quaint shops and local restaurants. Mount Carroll has deep agricultural roots, farmers selling produce at Farmer’s Market every Saturday or visiting local wineries. A favorite amongst tourists and locals alike is the county’s Sportsman Park which offers camping, fishing, hunting.

The Lone Star is a historic towboat located in Davenport, Iowa, along the Mississippi River. Built in 1869, the Lone Star is one of the oldest surviving steam-powered towboats in the United States and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.