 While Davenport is the third largest city in Iowa, it is still a city in Iowa. Simply meaning that while Davenport is adorable, it’s not Chicago. Despite lacking that big city feel, there are still plenty of things to do in Davenport and the rest of the Quad Cities.Â
Village of East Davenport
If you’re really looking into tap into that small town field, down to the village of East Davenport. This village is a 150-year-old historic district, with cute shops, restaurants, and festivals. It also has a park, and gorgeous views of the river.
Celebration Bell River cruise
If you’re looking to relax, perhaps take a trip to go ride the Celebration Bell. You get to get out on the water and take in the gorgeous views of the Riverside’s fall colors. This riverboat also has a gift shop, multiple dance floors, and is unlikely to leave you feeling seasick!
JOHN DEER PAVILLION
Since you are in Iowa, you might as well get up close and personal with the farming community. The John Deere pavilion has modern and vintage tractors, and various other farm equipment. And given our many cornfields, it could be fun to learn more about how it all works. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the area, you could also check out some historic houses, like the Butterworth Center and the Deere-Wiman House.
River Bandits Game
If you’re into sports, you could always head down and watch a River Bandits game at Modern Woodmen Park. And if you’re friends aren’t as into sports, they can always enjoy the rides at the stadium, including a Ferris Wheel that overlooks the Mississippi River. This is a fun, affordable experience for a few people or a larger group of friends.
Figge Art Muesum
If you’re more into art, I highly suggest heading downtown and checking out the figgy art museum. Not only is it home to an impressive gallery, but there are also multiple opportunities to take art classes. And added bonus is that the museum offers free admission to non-members on Thursdays after 5 PM. Military personnel and their families also get free admission. So take your friends and enjoy an evening of gorgeous art. Maybe it will inspire your own creative spark!
The Last Picture House
This past year, Davenport became home to the Last Picture House- a boutique cinema complete with a social lounge and bar. This movie theater is perfect for a fun night, whether you choose to watch the latest blockbuster or one of your favorite older movies you’re sure to have a good time.
Parks
The Quad city area also has many parks for you to enjoy. You could walk to Vanderveer from the SAU campus, go check out duck Creek Park, or walk along the various green spaces along the river. If you’re willing to go a little bit further, Nahant marsh is a gorgeous, easy walking trail- home to many species of birds, butterflies, otters, and there’s always a great place to see bald eagles as the weather gets cooler. Another great spot is wildcat den. A state park with over 400 acres of forest. It’s got multiple well-maintained trails that take you through sandstone bluffs and other fun geological landscapes. Not to mention it’s absolutely gorgeous in the fall.