15 Hidden Gems in Quad Cities That Only Locals Knows

Quad Cities consist of 5 cities (Davenport and Bettendorf in Iowa, Moline, East Moline, and Rock Island in Illinois), though as tourist destinations, Quad Cities aren’t as popular as other cities in the region. But that doesn’t mean that these cities lack tourist spots.

Just like that, there are various hidden gems in Quad Cities that never get the attention they deserve. Whether you like visiting serene places, museums, or art galleries, these cities have almost everything.

In this article, I shared not only the lesser-known tourist spots but also restaurants so that your experience of eating food in the city remains the best.

1. Atomic Cannon, Rock Island

Address: Rock Island, IL 61201

The first hidden gem is from Rock Island, named Atomic Cannon, which is a park that is different from an ordinary park in an average neighborhood.

As you reach this place, the first thing you will notice is the tank, artillery, cannons, missiles, and other replica weapons on display in the green area with grass all around. In front of each exhibit is an information plaque that describes each artifact. These replica models are also the main photography spot here as well.

After that, there is also a playground for kids, with a small volleyball and baseball field nearby. In addition to that, in front of the park is the Mississippi River, where you can see stunning water views. Either sitting on the grass in the park or walking along the river before going back will make your experience of visiting this place even more memorable.

Read More: 15 Lesser-Known Tourist Spots in Fresno

2. Hauberg Museum, Rock Island

Address: 1800 46th Ave, Rock Island, IL 61201

If you even have a slight interest in knowing about the history of native American tribes, then simply head to the Hauberg Museum in Rock Island,

As you reach this place, the first thing that will impress you is the geographical location of that museum, which is on a slightly high hill with the views of Rock River, which gives it a serene look. Upon entering the museum, you will get to know about the Sauk and Meskwaki tribes, as this land was their home once.

The museum’s exhibits include beautifully crafted artifacts, traditional clothing, tools, and even recreated housing structures that show what daily life was like centuries ago.

At the same time, you will also learn about how these tribes used their resources to build homes and make tools with the help of photographs and written documents. Overall, this museum should be a must-visit in Rock Island if you like to learn about history.

3. Colonel Davenport Historical House, Rock Island

Address: Davenport Ave, Rock Island, IL 61201

Another lesser-known museum in Rock Island that should be on your list is the Colonel Davenport Historical House, where Colonel George Davenport (one of the most influential figures in this region) used to live.

As you enter, you’ll see the home filled with 19th-century antique furniture, period décor, and exhibits that tell a lot about the Davenport family’s lifestyle. Though it’s not a very huge house, but is surely an interesting visit. You can also take the guided tour if you are interested in learning even more about Colonel George Davenport.

And as you finish your visit, walk on the well-maintained trails going in front of the house with green grass, and the views of the Mississippi River make this place even more special. 

4. Butterworth Center & Deere-Wiman House, Moline

Address: 1105 8th St, Moline, IL 61265

Butterworth Center & Deere-Wiman House is a house museum that was once the residence area of one of America’s most prominent industrial families—the Deere.

As you enter the mansion, you will see a well-preserved interior like in the classic movies; from the dining area to the bedrooms, all the furniture is well-preserved and decorated. Along with that, you will also see a very fine collection of art hanging on the wall in the form of paintings and photography and as sculptures on the tables.

Not to foget about the personal artifacts and documents, which also tell a lot about this family’s contribution. And if you are visiting this place with a guide, he will also explain to you a lot about this family. Moreover, the museum kept hosting different public events and programs to keep the public engaged. And there is also a lush garden outside, so spend some time in the garden before leaving.

5. Empire Park, East Moline

Address: 751 N 20th St, Hampton, IL 61256

Empire Park in East Moline is another family-friendly tourist attraction in the Quad Cities that deserves a visit because of how peaceful and relaxing this place is.

As you reach this place, you will see a big area covered with grass and some trees, like in most other parks. Not only that, there are three pavilions with different wooden benches and a barbecue area, which make this park unique.

And do not forget the Mississippi River views in front, which make the visit even more serene. There is also a playground for kids as well, which easily makes this place an ideal place for a family picnic. Lastly, do not miss the sunset while visiting the Empire Park, as this park’s beauty at sunset is at its peak.

6. Crow Valley Golf Club, Bettendorf

Address: 4315 E 60th St, Davenport, IA 52807

Crow Valley Golf Club in Bettendorf should be an ideal visit for those who like to play golf and tennis, whether with family or alone.

As you reach this place, you will see a very fine-looking course with lush green grass and trees around it. You can also use golf carts on the course. And not only golf, but there is also a tennis and swimming pool area as well. So after golfing, head to the tennis court and then the swimming pool to feel refreshed again.

There is also a shop on the course where you can purchase equipment such as hats, golf balls, tennis balls, etc., and if you ever felt hungry, there is also a dining area and a variety of items on the menu.

7.  Eagles Landing Park, Bettendorf

Address: 2731 62nd St Ct, Bettendorf, IA 52722

Eagles Landing Park is another hidden gem in Bettendorf, which is part of Quad Cities. This place is super peaceful and can be the best place if you want to spend some time alone.

This is not a very big park and area but is still in good size. There is also a walking trail alongside the grass and trees. You can either sit on the bench or on the grass to view the Mississippi River; it’s on you.

This is a kind of place where you can spend some time early in the morning or at sunset in the evening to view the serene look around in peace.

8. Mississippi Spoon Gallery, Davenport

Address: 902 E River Dr, Davenport, IA 52803

Mississippi Spoon Gallery in Davenport is a very rare and unique museum that will surely impress anyone.

Upon entering the gallery, you will see spoons galore all around you. Some are displayed on the table in a box, some are hanging on the wall, and some are in a frame like we store our medals; all of this is very rare, considering they are all spoons.

And these spoons aren’t only what we use in our daily lives but are very rare and old. The designs of each spoon are different from the others, and these spoons are in hundreds or even thousands. Overall, this off-the-beaten museum is a must-visit and will surely not disappoint you.

9. German American Heritage Center & Museum, Davenport

Address: 712 W 2nd St, Davenport, IA 52802

German American Heritage Center & Museum in Davenport is also a history and cultural hub for those who like to visit museums like these. The primary goal of this museum is to promote the efforts and work of German immigrants in the United States of America.

The building of this museum was originally built in 1862 as the “Standard Hotel.” Inside this museum is a permanent exhibit and a rotating exhibit that kept changing over time.

Here, you will see a variety of artifacts, such as photos, documents, and other displays that explain the struggle, how Germans came to America in the 1800s, and their early lives in America. At the same time, the temporary exhibit’s theme kept changing.

10. Bix Beiderbecke Museum and Archives, Davenport

Address: 129 N Main Street, Davenport, IA 52801

Bix Beiderbecke Museum and Archives in Davenport is the last hidden gem tourist spot on this list, and it is an ideal visit for you if you like music and are a fan of early jazz.

This museum is dedicated to Bix Beiderbecke, a jazz music legend despite having a short career. In this museum, you will see various memorabilia, which includes Bix’s school vest, Bix’s piano, mandolin, banjo, Bix’s jacket, travel trunk, and many others.

Along with that, you will also see different artifacts that were once used by other jazz artists, which include different saxophones, clarinets, paintings, trombones, and other instruments. At the same time, you will get to know about Bix Beiderbecke’s life in more detail with different exhibits, photographs and documents, etc.

Hidden Gem Restaurants in Quad Cities

11. Soi 2 Thai Street Food, Rock Island

Address: 1825 2nd Ave, Rock Island, IL 61201

The first hidden gem restaurant in the Quad Cities that you should definitely visit is Soi 2 Thai Street Food in Rock Island. If you ever crave Thai food in the Quad Cities, just head to this restaurant.

The ambiance inside is relaxed and cool, with different paintings on the wall and different seating options for customers. The staff is also very kind and can also guide you to choose the best option available if you ever feel confused selecting the menu,

On the menu, they have all the bases covered for Thai food, whether you want soup, rice, shrimp, mixed veg rice, or even you want to eat vegetarian food, you’ll get it there.

12. Bayside Bistro, Rock Island

Address: 2704 18th Ave, Rock Island, IL 61201

Bayside Bistro in Rock Island is also one of the off-the-beaten restaurants that serves American food. The ambiance inside this restaurant gave vibes of a classic American restaurant. In the seating area, there are two options: wooden chairs, a sofa, and a reserved room for private dining.

The most impressive thing about this restaurant is the menu. Their menu is actually quite extensive. They have meat pie, Mediterranean flatbread, a wide variety of sandwiches, wraps, burgers, tuna, and different bowls and brisket options. They also offer gluten-free, vegetarian, and dessert options.

13. Maria’s Mexican Restaurant, Moline

Address: 1714 7th St, Moline, IL 61265

If you ever crave to eat Mexican food in Moline, head to Maria’s Mexican restaurant, which specializes in serving authentic Mexican food.

The ambiance inside the restaurant also stands out to be the most Mexican. The walls are covered with different paintings and art, with wooden chairs, tables, and sofa options, which actually gave the restaurant a very lovely vibe.

If we talk about the food, the enchilada here really stands out from the rest. Along with that, they also offer other Mexican foods like tacos, quesadillas, and different rice options. 

14. Teriyaki Madness, Bettendorf

Address: 3721 State St, Bettendorf, IA 52722

Teriyaki Madness in Bettendorf specializes in Asian fusion foods. The ambiance inside the restaurant is very modern and cold. It’s super neat and clean from the inside, and large floor-to-ceiling windows let you view outside. The wooden tables and chairs in the seating area are also quite comfortable.

Their menu isn’t very huge, but as the name suggests, it primarily focuses on teriyaki bowls. They offer chicken, salmon, steak, tofu, yakisoba, and other varieties of teriyaki, along with fried rice, noodles, and other sources. Overall, if you love teriyaki, then this restaurant is one of the finest in Bettendorf.

15. Mj Chinese And Vietnamese Cuisine, Devenport

Address: 1414 W Locust St, Davenport, IA 52804

The last restaurant in the list of lesser-known restaurants in the Quad Cities is Mj Chinese and Vietnamese Cuisine, which is in Devenport.

As the name suggests, in this restaurant, you will find both Chinese and Vietnamese food. The ambiance inside is pretty aesthetic, with a long table and a small table sitting area, which really suits here.

If we talk about the menu, which is really extensive, you will find almost everything you expect a restaurant like this to have. From fried rice to noodles, soup, and even a separate section for tofu, the items on the menu are really impressive. 

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