If you’re new to the Quad Cities—or just visiting for the first time—welcome! Sitting right along the Mississippi River, the Quad Cities is made up of five vibrant communities: Davenport and Bettendorf in Iowa, and Rock Island, Moline, and East Moline in Illinois.
From riverfront views to local restaurants and charming small towns, there’s a lot to explore here. But if you’re just getting started and want to experience the heart of the area, here are two must-do experiences that every newcomer should try first.
Walk the Mississippi Riverfront
One of the most beautiful and iconic parts of the Quad Cities is the Mississippi River. The riverfront trails running through Davenport and Bettendorf are perfect for a relaxing walk, bike ride, or simply sitting on a bench and watching the riverboats go by.
The riverfront area also hosts festivals, concerts, and seasonal events throughout the year, making it one of the best places to experience the local community.
What to do while you’re there:
• Take a sunset walk along the river
• Grab coffee or ice cream nearby
• Watch the barges and riverboats pass by
• Explore nearby parks and trails
It’s one of the simplest ways to experience what makes the Quad Cities special.
Explore Downtown Davenport
Downtown Davenport is one of the most vibrant areas in the Quad Cities and a great place to spend an afternoon or evening. The downtown district is full of local restaurants, coffee shops, bars, art galleries, and boutique stores.
You’ll also find historic architecture, music venues, and events happening throughout the year.
Things to check out downtown:
• Local restaurants and date-night spots
• Unique coffee shops
• Live music and nightlife
• Seasonal festivals and markets
Downtown is the perfect place to get a feel for the local culture and energy of the Quad Cities.
Welcome to the Quad Cities
Whether you’re new to the area or just exploring for the weekend, the Quad Cities has a little something for everyone—from riverfront scenery to great food and local businesses.
And once you’ve experienced these two spots, you’ll quickly discover there’s plenty more to explore.
✔ QC Girl Tip:
Start with the riverfront and downtown Davenport—then branch out to explore places like LeClaire, the Village of East Davenport, and the local coffee shops and restaurants around the area.