Davenport, Iowa: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Davenport, Iowa, sits by the beautiful Mississippi River. It's a treasure in the Quad Cities area. Here, you'll find museums, art, outdoor fun, and lively shows. But what secrets does this Iowa city hold? What hidden treasures will you find as you explore Davenport's rich culture?

Davenport is the heart of the Quad Cities for culture and economy. It has a strong arts scene, a growing craft beer scene, and lots of places for families. If you like history, nature, or modern entertainment, Davenport will amaze you. It's full of surprises.

Key Takeaways

• Davenport, Iowa is part of the vibrant Quad Cities region along the Mississippi River.
• The city offers a diverse range of attractions, from museums and art galleries to outdoor recreation and live music venues.
• Davenport's craft brewery scene and historic landmarks provide a unique cultural experience for visitors.
• Family-friendly destinations, such as the Putnam Museum and Vander Veer Botanical Park, cater to travelers with children.
• Exploring Davenport's riverfront entertainment and scenic natural areas promises to uncover unexpected delights.

Explore the Putnam Museum and Science Center

In the heart of Davenport, Iowa, the Putnam Museum and Science Center awaits. It's a place where science, history, and culture come alive. With over 160,000 artifacts, it's a treasure trove for anyone curious about the world.

The "Unearthing Ancient Egypt" exhibit is a highlight. It features mummies and relics from ancient Egypt. Visitors can learn about the daily lives and beliefs of this ancient civilization.

The Putnam Museum also has modern science exhibits. Don't miss the "GIANT Screen Theater." It offers movies on science and history in amazing detail.

If you love history, science, or just exploring the world, the Putnam Museum is for you. It's full of interesting exhibits that teach and inspire. It's a place where learning is fun for everyone.

Admire Art at the Figge Art Museum

In the heart of Davenport, the Figge Art Museum is a key spot for art lovers. It started as the Davenport Municipal Art Gallery in 1925. Now, it's a top place for European, American, and Spanish Viceregal art, and works by famous local artists like Grant Wood.

The museum is in a beautiful glass building designed by David Chipperfield. It offers a magical visit. You'll see a mix of classic and modern art. It's perfect for both art experts and those who just love art.

The Figge Art Museum is more than just a place to see art. It's a center for learning and community events. They have art classes, talks, and events to help people love art more. It makes art fun and open to everyone.

If you love European and American art, or just want to explore culture, the Figge Art Museum is perfect. It has a wide range of art, fun events, and a friendly vibe. It's a place that truly inspires and enriches everyone who visits.

"The Figge Art Museum is a true gem in the Quad Cities, showcasing the best of European, American, and regional art. It's a must-visit for anyone with a passion for the visual arts."

Discover the Rock Island Arsenal Museum

In the heart of Davenport, Iowa, the Rock Island Arsenal Museum is a key spot for history lovers and military fans. It's the second-oldest U.S. Army museum, giving a deep look into the area's military history.

Here, you'll find a wide range of firearms and artifacts that take you through Davenport's military history. You'll see everything from old rifles and pistols to detailed military outfits. These pieces tell the stories of the brave people who have served our country.

Explore the Museum's Vast Collection

When you enter the Rock Island Arsenal Museum, get ready to be wowed. It has a huge collection of military artifacts, including:

• An extensive display of firearms, ranging from historic muskets to modern-day assault rifles
• A diverse selection of uniforms, equipment, and personal items used by soldiers throughout the centuries
• Intriguing exhibits that shed light on the crucial role the Rock Island Arsenal played in the nation's defense

Walking through the museum's galleries, you'll learn more about the sacrifices and achievements of the U.S. Army. You'll understand the importance of their history.

If you love history or are curious about the military's role in Davenport, the Rock Island Arsenal Museum is a must-see. It offers a fascinating and educational visit that will stay with you.

Relax at Vander Veer Botanical Park

Vander Veer Botanical Park is a 33-acre oasis in the heart of Davenport. It opened in 1885 and has been a favorite spot ever since. Here, you can enjoy beautiful gardens, a century-old Conservatory, and the Municipal Rose Garden.

Walking through the park, you'll see gardens full of different plants and animals. The Grand Allée is a beautiful path with tall trees. It's perfect for a peaceful walk. The park also hosts events like the Poinsettia Lights Display and the Chrysanthemum Festival, making it special all year.

If you want a quiet moment or a fun day with family, Vander Veer Botanical Park is the place to go. It's a beautiful spot that lets you enjoy nature and relax.

Discover the beauty of Vander Veer Botanical Park. It's a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. With its beautiful gardens, historic Conservatory, and fun events, it's a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.

Walk Across the Davenport Skybridge

For a truly captivating view of downtown Davenport and the mighty Mississippi River, visit the iconic Davenport Skybridge. This 575-foot long, cable-stayed pedestrian bridge connects LeClaire Park to a charming courtyard on 2nd Street. It offers unparalleled vistas of the city's skyline and the meandering Mississippi River.

Opened in 2005, the Davenport Skybridge stands 50 feet above River Drive. It gives visitors a unique and elevated perspective of the vibrant downtown area. Stroll across the bridge and take in the breathtaking panorama. Or stop at the observation deck on the south end for a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape.

As the sun sets, the Davenport Skybridge transforms into a stunning, illuminated landmark. Kaleidoscopic lighting casts a mesmerizing glow over the Mississippi River and the city below. Truly a must-visit attraction, the Davenport Skybridge offers a truly unforgettable experience for anyone exploring the heart of downtown Davenport.

"The Davenport Skybridge is a true gem, offering a captivating perspective of the city and the majestic Mississippi River. It's a must-visit for anyone exploring Davenport."

Davenport, Iowa: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Explore Davenport's Thriving Craft Brewery Scene

Since the early 1990s, Davenport's craft breweries have drawn beer lovers to the Quad Cities. The oldest and most famous, Front Street Brewery, has been making hits like Cherry Bomb Blonde and Old Davenport Golden Ale since 1992. It's one of Iowa's oldest craft breweries.

Today, Davenport boasts a growing craft brewery scene. 5ive Cities Brewing, Crawford Brew Works, and Baked Beer & Bread Co. offer great beer, entertainment, and dining. They make the Quad Cities a top spot for beer lovers.

"Davenport's craft brewery scene has become a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts in the Quad Cities, offering a unique blend of history, innovation, and exceptional brews."

Unwind at Centennial Park

Nestled along the mighty Mississippi River, Centennial Park is a 250-acre oasis in Davenport, Iowa. It's a peaceful escape from the city. Named after the Rock Island Centennial Bridge, it's a top spot for Davenport parks, Mississippi River parks, and outdoor activities.

Walking through Centennial Park Davenport, you'll find many things to do. There are basketball courts, fishing spots, a playground, and a skateboard park. These offer fun for all ages. The park also has quiet gazebos and the Riverfront Trail for relaxing.

"Centennial Park is a true gem in the heart of Davenport. It's the perfect place to unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the beauty of the Mississippi River."

Centennial Park has something for everyone, whether you want peace or adventure. Dive into the natural beauty and let go of your worries. This Davenport park is a beautiful place to explore.

Experience Live Music at River Music Experience

In the heart of Davenport, Iowa, the River Music Experience (RME) shines as a key spot for the city's lively music scene. It's in the historic Redstone Building and hosts over 150 shows by local artists yearly. These shows offer a close-up concert experience with views of the Mississippi River.

The Redstone Room, with its 270-person capacity, has a first-come, first-served seating setup. This creates a warm and engaging vibe. Fans get to see Davenport's best artists, from pros to new talents, perform a wide variety of music.

The RME's big event is the Alternating Currents festival, featuring over 200 shows, comedy, films, and art. The Polyrythms' 10th Annual Bill Bell Jazz & Heritage Festival is another big event. It spans three days with performances and activities that honor the area's cultural roots.

For a closer look at music, the RME has smaller events too. There's the Old Dogs New Tricks music event for a $10 donation and a blues concert by The Dig 3 for $10 at the door. The Roots of Rural Music event with Chris Vallillo is free, letting the community enjoy live tunes.

If you're in Davenport, don't miss the River Music Experience. It's a key spot for the city's music scene. With its varied shows, cozy settings, and support for local arts, the RME is a gem that celebrates live music's power.

"The River Music Experience is a hub for the local music community, showcasing the talent and creativity that flourishes in Davenport."

Explore the Historic Credit Island

Credit Island sits in the Mississippi River's heart, blending history with outdoor fun. It was once a key trading spot for Native American tribes. Now, it's a 420-acre park loved by those wanting to dive into the area's history.

Take a step back in time on the island, remembering its role in the War of 1812. The island's trails let you see ancient artifacts and learn about its importance. It connected the Mississippi River to the Davenport area.

But it's not just about history. The island is perfect for outdoor lovers. Golfers can play on the 18-hole course, and sports fans can enjoy baseball and basketball. For a calm day, bring a picnic and soak in the beautiful views of the Mississippi.

Credit Island is ideal for those wanting to see Davenport's historic sites or find a peaceful spot. It's a place that highlights the city's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Discover the historic Credit Island Davenport and dive into its rich history and beauty. It's a special spot on the Mississippi River islands. Whether you want outdoor recreation or to connect with history, Credit Island offers a memorable experience in Davenport parks.

Conclusion

Davenport, Iowa, is a key part of the Quad Cities region. It offers a wide range of attractions for visitors. You can find world-class museums, art galleries, outdoor activities, historic sites, and a lively craft brewery scene.

Visitors can explore the Putnam Museum's vast collections, see art at the Figge Art Museum, or learn about the city's military history at the Rock Island Arsenal Museum. Davenport also has cultural spots like the Bix Beiderbecke Museum and the Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival. These places highlight the area's rich arts and music.

Davenport is known for its diverse food scene, outdoor fun, and its close location to cities like Chicago and Minneapolis. It captures the essence of the Quad Cities, inviting you to explore and discover its many wonders.