30 Best Things to do in Davenport!
Davenport, in Iowa, is a hidden gem located along the Mississippi River. Known for its vibrant arts scene, historic landmarks, and friendly community, Davenport offers a mix of urban attractions and natural beauty. Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, Davenport has something for all visitors. In this comprehensive guide, we showcase the best things to do in Davenport during your visit to Iowa.
In this Article
1. Historic Attractions
Village of East Davenport
The Village of East Davenport in Iowa is a charming blend of history, unique shops, delicious food, and stunning views of the Mississippi River. Its well-preserved buildings from the 1800s and friendly shop owners make it a delightful place to explore. Enjoy local dishes at the cozy cafes and restaurants, and don’t miss the events throughout the year. The scenic parks and trails are perfect for a relaxing walk.
German American Heritage Center & Museum
The German American Heritage Center & Museum offers a rich dive into German American history in Davenport. Housed in a historic building from the 1860s, it features engaging exhibits, including interactive displays and special exhibits on topics like German music. Visitors can enjoy views of the Mississippi River and access a research library for genealogy. The museum hosts events and programs throughout the year, adding to its appeal.
Colonel Davenport Historical House
The Colonel Davenport Historical House is a charming piece of history along the Mississippi River in Davenport. Built in the 1830s by George Davenport, this Greek Revival home offers a glimpse into 19th century life. Guided tours provide engaging insights into Davenport’s life and local history. The house, filled with period furnishings, and the scenic grounds make for a delightful visit.
The Palmer Family House
The Palmer Family House is a historic gem showcasing the lives of chiropractic pioneers in Davenport. Easily accessible from the Quad City International Airport, the mansion impresses with its early 20th century architecture and beautifully preserved interiors. Visitors can explore rooms filled with period furniture and artifacts related to chiropractic history.
Scott County Freedom Rock
The Scott County Freedom Rock honors veterans with vibrant artwork in Davenport. Easily accessible from Quad City International Airport, the rock is a short drive away. Nearby hotels like Radisson Quad City Plaza offer convenient stays. Explore Davenport with easy transportation options, including buses and bike lanes. Experience the changing artwork and peaceful surroundings for a memorable visit.
2. Outdoor Adventures
Riverfront Activities
The Davenport’s riverfront offers biking, strolling, and water activities like kayaking and fishing. The promenade features shops and eateries, perfect for a leisurely day. Don’t miss the stunning sunset views over the river. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Davenport’s riverfront has it all. Experience the charm of this Iowa city by the water’s edge.
Biking Trails
Davenport offers scenic biking trails along the Mississippi River and Duck Creek Parkway, perfect for leisurely rides. Explore the charming Village of East Davenport or ride to Bettendorf on flat, well maintained trails. For a longer adventure, consider biking a portion of the Mississippi River Trail for stunning views. Remember to check trail conditions and wear a helmet for a safe ride.
Disc Golf
Disc golf in Davenport offers a fun and scenic experience for all skill levels. With courses like Eastern Avenue Park and West Lake Park, players can enjoy a mix of open fields and wooded areas. The game is budget-friendly, requiring only a few discs. It’s a great outdoor activity for families and groups looking for a fun day out. Discover the charm of disc golf in Davenport today. Check out Iron Lion Disc Golf or Eastern Avenue Park Disc Golf Course for disc golf activities.
Fishing Spots
Davenport offers great fishing spots like Credit Island Park along the Mississippi River, West Lake Park with its various lakes, and Scott County Park’s lakes and ponds. The Mississippi River provides excellent fishing for catfish and carp. Lake George, stocked with trout and bass, is a hidden gem in Davenport. Enjoy a relaxing day of fishing in Davenport’s beautiful outdoors.
Parks and Recreation
Davenport offers a variety of parks and recreational activities for all ages. From the historic Village of East Davenport to the family-friendly Fejervary Park and Zoo, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy biking trails, golf courses, and water activities along the Mississippi River. Don’t miss the disc golf courses and excellent fishing spots. Davenport’s parks and recreation spots are perfect for a fun-filled day outdoors.
3. Iconic Landmarks
Davenport City Hall
The Davenport City Hall, built in 1895, is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture in downtown Davenport, Iowa. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it features a grand facade, elegant interior with marble floors, and a beautiful council chambers with stained glass windows and a dome ceiling. Serving as the seat of government for the city, it offers guided tours highlighting its history and architectural beauty.
River Music Experience
The River Music Experience is a vibrant music venue along the Mississippi River in Davenport. It offers live performances, educational programs, and interactive exhibits celebrating the region’s musical heritage. The Redstone Room hosts memorable live shows, and the venue offers workshops for aspiring musicians. Explore the rich history of music in Davenport through exhibits and enjoy a variety of music genres.
Modern Woodmen Park
The Modern Woodmen Park offers a charming baseball experience by the Mississippi River in Davenport. The park, dating back to 1931, boasts a scenic location with riverfront views. Home to the Quad Cities River Bandits, it’s perfect for baseball enthusiasts. With classic ballpark amenities and events like concerts, it’s a must-visit in Davenport. Visit for a fun day out with family and friends.
Putnam Museum and Science Center
The Putnam Museum and Science Center offers a blend of history and science. Its natural history exhibits showcase the region’s biodiversity, while its local history displays trace Davenport’s development. Interactive experiences for all ages make learning fun and accessible. Whether you’re interested in history or science, this museum has something for everyone.
Davenport Skybridge
The Davenport Skybridge in Iowa is a covered pedestrian bridge with a futuristic design, offering stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River. It is the only cable-stayed bridge in the US that is entirely covered. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views, especially enchanting at night when illuminated by colorful lights. It is a functional structure, providing a safe way for pedestrians to cross River Drive.
Figge Art Museum
The Figge Art Museum offers a diverse collection of American art, including works by Grant Wood and Georgia O’Keeffe in Davenport. The museum’s location along the Mississippi River adds to its charm, providing a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy. With its range of educational programs and temporary exhibitions, the Figge Art Museum is a cultural hub that offers something for everyone.
Splash Landing Aquatic Center
The Splash Landing Aquatic Center offers a thrilling water park experience for all ages in Davenport – Bettendorf. From the exciting slides to the relaxing lazy river, there’s something for everyone. The wave pool is a highlight, providing an exhilarating ride for visitors. For younger guests, there’s a children’s area with shallow pools and small slides. Don’t forget to grab a snack at the concession stand to fuel up for more fun.
4. Natural Attractions
Credit Island Park
The Credit Island Park near Davenport, offers a serene riverfront escape with historical significance. Originally a Native American campsite and later a military outpost, the park now features trails, fishing spots, and a disc golf course, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re picnicking by the river or exploring its past, Credit Island Park is a peaceful retreat rich in history and natural beauty.
Vander Veer Botanical Park
The Vander Veer Botanical Park is a serene oasis with diverse plant life and themed gardens in Davenport. The conservatory showcases exotic plants, while walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic spots offer relaxation and recreation. Explore the Japanese garden, rose garden, and butterfly garden for a peaceful retreat. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking family fun, Vander Veer Botanical Park offers something for all visitors.
Duck Creek Parkway
The Duck Creek Parkway offers scenic walking and biking trails, perfect for nature lovers in Davenport. The parkway also provides opportunities for canoeing and kayaking on the calm waters of the creek. Fishing enthusiasts will enjoy the variety of fish in the creek, including bass and catfish. Picnic areas, playgrounds, and open spaces make it a great spot for families. Duck Creek Parkway is a peaceful retreat from city life.
Fejervary Park and Zoo
The Fejervary Park and Zoo is a charming destination for families and nature lovers in Davenport. Visitors can see a variety of animals up close and enjoy recreational activities like walking trails and picnic areas. The zoo also offers educational programs on wildlife conservation. Overall, Fejervary Park and Zoo is a must-visit attraction in Davenport for a fun and educational day out.
Quad City Botanical Center
The Quad City Botanical Center offers a serene escape with vibrant gardens showcasing Midwest flora in Davenport. Explore outdoor paths lined with blooming flowers and indoor exhibits with tropical habitats. Learn about conservation and sustainable gardening practices. The center also offers plants and gardening supplies for sale. Visit for a peaceful retreat and leave feeling refreshed and inspired.
Mississippi River Trail
Exploring the Mississippi River Trail in Davenport, offers stunning river views perfect for walking, running, or biking. This well maintained trail stretches for miles, passing through lush areas and open fields, ideal for birdwatching and nature photography. With several access points, it’s easy to find cafes and restrooms nearby. Cyclists will love the smooth path, and fishing enthusiasts can enjoy peaceful spots along the river.
5. Day Trips & Excursions
Maquoketa Caves State Park
Planning a day trip to Maquoketa Caves State Park from Davenport is perfect for adventure lovers. The park, an hour’s drive away, offers well-marked trails and over a dozen caves to explore, including the popular Dancehall Cave. Wear sturdy shoes and bring a flashlight for the best experience. Enjoy a picnic amidst beautiful scenery and capture stunning photos of the natural surroundings.
Mississippi River Distilling Company
Take a day trip from Davenport to the Mississippi River Distilling Company in Le Claire is a delightful experience. Start your day with a scenic 20 minutes drive along the Mississippi River. Enjoy a guided tour of the distillery, learning about the spirit-making process, followed by a tasting session of their award-winning drinks. Explore the charming town of Le Claire for lunch and some sightseeing.
Nahant Marsh
In Iowa, escape the city and explore the serene Nahant Marsh near Davenport. Pack essentials like water, snacks, and sunscreen for a day of wildlife spotting and nature walks. Visit the Education Center to learn about local flora and fauna. Walk the well-marked trails and don’t miss the boardwalk for a close-up view of the wetlands. Wrap up your trip with a peaceful picnic by the water before heading back to Davenport.
Rock Island Arsenal Museum
The Rock Island Arsenal Museum offers a glimpse into military history with exhibits on vehicles, weapons, and uniforms. Located in Illinois, it’s a short drive from Davenport, Iowa, with scenic views along the way. The museum’s historic building once manufactured military equipment, adding to its charm. Visitors can also explore the grounds for relaxing views of the Mississippi River. A day trip here is both educational and enjoyable.
How to Reach Davenport
The closest major airport to Davenport is the Quad City International Airport (MLI) in Moline, Illinois, just a 15 minutes drive from Davenport. This airport is serviced by major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and United, providing convenient access for travelers.
For those flying in from further afield, Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Des Moines International Airport (DSM) are also viable options, with car rentals and shuttle services available for the drive to Davenport. With these airports Davenport can be accessible from far away major cities like New York City, Houston and Las Vegas.
Local Transportation
Popular ride-sharing apps like Uber are widely used in Davenport, providing a convenient and often cost-effective way to travel around the city, especially for short distances or schedules of public transit don’t match with your plans during your visit. For those who prefer the freedom of having their own vehicle, several car rental companies operate in Davenport, including Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis. Renting a car is a great option if you plan to explore beyond the city or take day trips to nearby attractions.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the best time to visit Davenport?
The best time to visit Davenport is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant, and the city’s parks and gardens are in full bloom.
2. Are there family-friendly activities in Davenport?
Yes, Davenport offers numerous family-friendly activities, including the Family Museum, Niabi Zoo, and the Davenport Skybridge.
3. How can I get around the city without a car?
Davenport has a reliable public transit system, and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are also widely available.
4. What are some must-try local dishes?
Be sure to try Maid-Rite sandwiches and the hearty Midwestern comfort food at Machine Shed.
5. Is there any festivals or annual events that are worth attending?
Yes, don’t miss the Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival, Mississippi Valley Fair, and Alternating Currents Festival for a taste of Davenport’s vibrant cultural scene.
