Rock Island County - 18 Attractions You Must Visit

Bally's Quad Cities Casino & Hotel offers a full range of casino gaming options, from the classic favorites like poker, blackjack and slots to exciting electronic table games. With over 800 slot machines, 30 table games and endless entertainment options, this destination provides an exciting getaway for any gambler. In addition to the 6 restaurants and 4 bars that offer everything from delicious burgers to celebrity chef cuisine, there is always something to do.

Black Hawk State Historic Site is a great place to visit with something for everyone. This scenic park is located along the Upper Mississippi River and provides historical information about the Sauk and Meskwaki Nation through its photo galleries, plaques and displays. There are also plenty of recreational activities to keep the whole family occupied such as trails perfect for walking, hiking, biking or horseback riding as well as fishing spots on the river.

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.

Camden Park, is a premier outdoor recreational area. Visitors can explore acres of forest and riverside trails, go canoe and kayaking on the adjacent Rock River, or relax along one of the many picnic spots. Adventurous individuals can also climb and rappel from the park’s rocky cliffs. The views of the river and surrounding nature are incredible! The park also hosts numerous events throughout the year including music festivals, guided hikes, craft workshops and more.

Campbell's Island, is a small island community nestled between the Mississippi and Rock Rivers. It experiences all four classic seasons- enjoying warm summers, mild winters and beautiful spring and autumnal foliage. The area is known for its rich history - including remains of prehistoric Indians and Europeans settlers alike. A historic lighthouse gracefully pops up along the shoreline adding to the old-world charm that Campbell's Island exudes.

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.

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.

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.

The Hauberg Museum is a National Historic Site that tells the story of midwestern farming from the early twentieth century. Visitors can explore the farmstead site and the beautifully-preserved heritage of the Hauberg family who originally settled on this land in 1846. The museum includes several buildings, including a reconstructed cabin and a springhouse, which serve to illustrate how families lived during that period.

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 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.

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.

Niabi Zoo, is an animal lover's paradise. With over 350 different species from all corners of the world in its fifteen acres, there is plenty to explore. Visitors can take a peaceful stroll through the African Savannah and marvel at the majestic sight of Giraffes eating from the trees above them. Fans of aquatic species will find incredible amazement with Penguins, Otters and Sharks at the new Water's Edge Exhibit.

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.

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.

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.

This picturesque park offers a variety of recreation for visitors, including two playgrounds, two large picnic shelters, grills and picnic tables, a fishing pond and boat access to the Mississippi river. There’s something for everyone at Sunset Park! For those wishing to explore the outdoors, miles of winding trails provide an ideal venue for biking or even just a leisurely stroll. Or head north to Sycamore Bend for more fun.

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.