20 Attractions to Explore Near Riverfront Parkway

The I 74 Bridge provides motorists with a major route across the Mississippi River, linking the city of Bettendorf, Iowa with the city of Moline, Illinois. It is the largest in the state at 2.1 miles long and includes two decks that are 100 feet above the river’s waters. This vital transportation link has been providing residents, tourists and commuters alike with a vital connection since it first opened in 1935 - allowing to easily cross between states and communities.

The Quad Cities Waterfront Convention Center, located in Bettendorf, Iowa, is a premier event venue situated along the banks of the Mississippi River. Opened in 2009, the convention center serves as a hub for meetings, conferences, trade shows, and special events in the Quad Cities region.

The Vibrant Arena at the MARK is a premier event and entertainment facility. Featuring a main stage area with flexible seating and state-of-the-art sound and lighting technology, it provides an unbeatable experience for music concerts, theatrical productions, sports tournaments and large conventions. It also boasts multiple large meeting rooms, outdoor space for outdoor events, plus concessions stands and more.

The John Deere Pavilion is an interactive museum celebrating the agricultural heritage and rich history of John Deere. The main attractions of the pavilion include an expansive two-story gallery showcasing iconic products, an immersive theater for 4D virtual reality experiences, and a 28-foot replica of a classic tractor surrounded by visually stunning scenery, state-of-the-art exhibits, and interactive activities.

Lindsay Park, located in Davenport, Iowa, is a charming urban park offering a variety of recreational activities and natural beauty. Situated along the Mississippi River, the park provides stunning views of the river and the downtown Davenport skyline.

Duck Creek Park and Golf Course is a recreational facility located in Scott County, Iowa. The park offers a range of outdoor activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy, including golfing, hiking, picnicking, and wildlife observation.

The Rock Island Arsenal Museum is the perfect destination for anyone interested in the history of military conflict. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits featuring examples of weaponry, uniforms and vehicles from throughout American military history. Learn about firearms development and view pieces from World War I, World War II, Vietnam and National Guard collections. Guests can also take part in interactive displays such as an underwater virtual experience.

Indian Springs Park, situated in Davenport, Iowa, is a picturesque outdoor recreational area offering various activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy. The park covers approximately 40 acres and features a combination of natural beauty, historic elements, and leisure facilities.

The Prospect Park Historic District in Davenport, Iowa, is a well-preserved residential neighborhood listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the district features a diverse range of architectural styles, including Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, Tudor Revival, Craftsman, and Prairie School.

The Woeber Carriage Works was a prominent business in Davenport, Iowa, known for manufacturing carriages and other horse-drawn vehicles during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Founded by John Woeber in the mid-1800s, the company quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality and innovative horse-drawn vehicles.

Oakdale Memorial Gardens, situated in Davenport, Iowa, is a serene and dignified cemetery serving as a final resting place for individuals from various backgrounds and religious affiliations. Established in the mid-20th century, Oakdale Memorial Gardens encompasses carefully landscaped grounds, providing a peaceful and contemplative environment for visitors to pay their respects to the departed.

The Bix 7 Road Race is an iconic annual running event held in Davenport, Iowa. Established in 1975, the race is named after jazz musician Bix Beiderbecke, who was born in Davenport. It has since become one of the largest and most prestigious road races in the Midwest.

St. Luke's Hospital, located in Davenport, Iowa, is a prominent healthcare institution serving the Quad Cities area. Established in 1884 by the Episcopal Church, the hospital has a long history of providing quality medical care to the community. Originally housed in a small building, it expanded over the years to meet the growing healthcare needs of the region.

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.

School Number 6, located in Davenport, Iowa, is a historic educational institution that played a significant role in the city's early educational system. Constructed in 1870, the school served as a vital hub for educating children in the surrounding neighborhoods during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

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.

The Quad City Botanical Center with its tranquil gardens, greenhouse full of tropical plants, outdoor pavilion for special events, and wide variety of educational classes, the center is sure to delight year-round. It features an impressive collection of rare species from around the world displayed in an aesthetically pleasing and colorful setting. Visitors can explore vibrant gardens of native and exotic plants while discovering interactive sculptures specifically designed.

Beit Shalom Jewish Community is a significant religious and cultural institution located in Davenport, Iowa. Established in the early 20th century, Beit Shalom serves as a center for Jewish worship, education, and community engagement in the Quad Cities region.

Sacred Heart Cathedral, located in Davenport, Iowa, is a historic and architecturally significant Catholic cathedral that serves as the mother church of the Diocese of Davenport. Constructed in the late 19th century, the cathedral stands as a symbol of faith and heritage in the region.

The Collins House, located in Davenport, Iowa, is a historic residence that stands as a testament to the architectural and cultural heritage of the city. Built in the late 19th century, the house is a fine example of the Italianate architectural style, characterized by its ornate details, symmetrical facade, and prominent cupola.