Quad Cites: A Diversified and Culturally Rich Area That's Worth the Trip

Having been raised in the Quad Cities in Illinois I have found there are so many different things to do and see. Many of them I failed to discover until I started researching for this article.

The Quad Cities is made up mostly of Moline, East Moline, and Rock Island of Illinois and Davenport, Iowa. However there is also Bettendorf and LaClaire in Iowa and Milan, Silvis, Carbon Cliff and Coal Valley in Illinois. The Quad Cities is a vastly diversified region of culture, nature and history.

The first railroad tracks to ever been built across the Mississippi River was built just minutes from where I lived. John Deere headquarters is located here as well. Today's Atlanta Hawks got there start in the Quad Cites back in 1950s. And Abraham Lincoln had his first trial as a lawyer in this area.

If you and your family are looking for a weekend get-away destination then the Quad Cities is full of possibilities and activities for you to enjoy. Here are just a few of the many sights and sounds you can discover.

The Mark of the Quad Cities - this 9300 civic center has quickly become on of the best sources of entertainment. Having hosted such musical talent as Neil Diamond, Elton John, The Beach Boys and Kenny Chesney, as well as, being the site for such live events for Monday Night Raw (WWE Wrestling) and the former WCW Great American Bash the Mark offers your family a great place to take the family. Also the Mark is the home of the Quad City Mallards hockey team.

Celebration Belle Riverboat - sail with old world class on this beautiful paddle wheel riverboat and enjoy some of the best food and entertainment that can be found on the Mississippi. The Celebration Belle offers a number of cruise packages for you to choose from. Check out the Big Band cruise or the Captain's Dinner cruise where you will enjoy a prime rib dinner. If you are looking for a chance to learn about the Mississippi river region they also offer informational cruises and educational cruises.

Riverboat gambling - if you are looking for a unique place to enjoy gambling then take your friends and family on one of the three gambling riverboats located in the Quad Cities. All three of these beautiful riverboats are open year round. You can find these riverboats in Rock Island, Davenport and LaClaire.

QuadCityBotanicalCenter - if you love plant life and flowers this is a wonderful starting point and a must see. The botanical center was built right next to the Mississippi river and offers a 6,000 square foot tropical Sun garden conservatory.

The Putnam Museum and IMAX® Theatre - being one of the first museums founded west of the Mississippi river this is a great place to explore. Visiting the Putnam will give you a deeper understand and appreciate the Quad Cities and its history. This is one of my favorite places to visit and well worth the time. Explore the Hall of Mammals, River, Prairies and People or the River Valley Discovery room and you will see some of what has made the Quad Cities what it is today. Also with the addition of the IMAX theatre the Putnam is one place you will never forget.

The River Way- hikers or bicyclists can check out this portion of the Mississippi River's Great River Trail. With over sixty miles of trails in Illinois and another thirty in Iowa you will find plenty to see while also enjoying the presences of the mighty Mississippi river.

These are just a few of the many things you can do in the Quad Cities. You can also check out Niabi Zoo or head over to the Mississippi Valley Fair Grounds. Contact the Visitor Center for more information and then plan your next get away to this wonderful location. I love this area and look to go back there some day soon. The only limits you have at finding something to do or see in the Quad Cities is the limits you place on yourself.