
If you live around the Quad Cities and feel like taking a day trip to explore different places, you'll find lots of cities that are well worth visiting. They each have their own unique character, activities, and popular destinations, so get ready to hit the road on your day-long adventure! Our real estate agents recommend the following places around the Quad City area that are perfect for a wintertime day trip.
- Bettendorf
Located along the banks of the Mississippi River, Bettendorf has many things to do that appeal to a wide variety of interests. Stop by Leach Park, located near Bettendorf homes for sale, for beautiful views of the I-74 bridge over the Mississippi River, as well as spectacular sunsets. And if you'd like to try your luck at slot machines, poker, blackjack, or other games, head to Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf. Even if you don't want to gamble, the hotel offers dining and entertainment options like live music and comedy shows.
- Davenport
If you're looking for an arts and culture-themed day trip, Davenport should be at the top of your list. Time your visit for a performance by the Quad City Symphony Orchestra or a concert at a popular venue like the creatively named Raccoon Motel. Make sure to stop at the Freight House Farmers' Market, located near Davenport homes for sale, where you can buy produce, artisanal foods, baked goods, and other products year-round.
- East Moline
East Moline (or EasMo as locals call it) is known for having John Deere Harvester Works, one of the largest combine factories in the world. Make reservations when you'd like to visit, and you can take a free tour and visit the gift shop. The Rust Belt, a refurbished plant from the early 1900s, is also a popular destination for audiences who want to hear live music and laugh along with comedians. It's found just around the corner from East Moline homes for sale. And while you're there, stop by the Midwest Ale Works microbrewery to learn more about the brewing process and taste some of their creations.
- DeWitt
If you're into an active lifestyle, hit the Paul Skeffington Memorial Trail when you visit DeWitt. It's over five miles long and is paved, making it ideal for walking, running, or bike riding. And if you're in the mood to shop, visit the quaint Downtown District, located close to DeWitt homes for sale. You'll find unique boutiques, specialty retailers, and restaurants that serve delicious food when you're ready for a break.
- Clinton
Clinton is a city where the old and new come together in an exciting way. For example, the old Bethel Church has been restored and transformed into the Great Revivalist Brewery. Located near Clinton homes for sale, the brewery is the ideal destination for trying craft brews and sharing a pizza. If you'd like to see a play or music performance any night during your visit, head to the Clinton Area Showboat Theater, a docked boat that provides a fun, unique setting.
- Dubuque
Iowa's oldest city, Dubuque is in a gorgeous setting on scenic bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River. Take a cable car ride for a unique perspective of the area's natural beauty and see three states from an observation deck. Or stroll along the Mississippi Riverwalk, found near Dubuque homes for sale, and check out the art sculptures and educational plaques along the way. If you want to try your luck at taking home some extra cash, visit Diamond Jo Casino for your favorite games along with live entertainment.
- Iowa City
If you're visiting Iowa City with kids, don't miss the Iowa Children's Museum, which will keep them happily entertained with interactive exhibits so they don't even realize they're learning. The Coral Ridge Mall, conveniently located near Iowa City homes for sale, has lots of shops, of course, plus some unexpected fun activities, including a carousel to ride and an indoor skating rink you can glide across. If you feel like getting outside, explore the Devonian Fossil Gorge and take a walk looking for fossils.
- Cedar Rapids
The second largest city in Iowa, Cedar Rapids is a vibrant area that offers many big-city amenities without the hassles. Make sure to visit Czech Village and New Bohemia, two of the city's historic neighborhoods near Cedar Rapids homes for sale. The popular destinations have a variety of fun activities and destinations for everyone, including restaurants, art, and live music. They pair nicely with a visit to the National Czech & Slovak Museum, which takes you through a journey of European immigrants' lives, culture, history, and more.
- Muscatine
When you visit Muscatine, learn a bit about its history at the Pine Creek Grist Mill, which was built in 1848. The site is scenic and makes for a nice destination when you're in the area. The Muscatine Art Center is also a popular site to visit and houses the Musser Museum and the Stanley Gallery. And for a fun photo op, don't miss the quirky World's Largest Watermelon Slice. The sculpture, located on the riverfront near Muscatine homes for sale, is 40 feet long, weighs 16,000 pounds, and is lit at night.
- Burlington
No visit to Burlington is complete with a trip to Snake Alley, recognized as "unbelievably crooked" by Ripley's Believe It or Not. The small area has five half-curves and two-quarter curves, giving it many twists and turns. You'll find the riverfront and shops nearby, including Burlington By the Book, which features works by popular and local authors. Before heading home, treat yourself to a meal at Martini's Grille, a steakhouse just around the corner from Burlington homes for sale and known for its designer martinis, wines, prime beef, seafood, and, oddly enough, chicken lips.
Contact us today if you're interested in buying a home in one of these communities. We'd love to help you find just the right home that suits your lifestyle.