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Iowa Guides

• Quad cities

  jvandergriff (Jody Vandergriff)

• How the Quad Cities does brunch

  visitquadcities (Visit Quad Cities )
  The Quad Cities is a collection of dozens of cities, towns and communities, all with unique styles and offerings. Check out some of the best places to grab brunch with family or friends.

• Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing in the Quad Cities

  visitquadcities (Visit Quad Cities )
  ou see a fresh expanse of newly fallen snow. What do you want to do? Make footprints across it, write your name, make a snow angel, build a snowman, etc. Did snowshoeing come to mind? Or maybe going for a hike? If not, maybe it should! Kelly Daugherty is an avid outdoors person, even in the winter. “It definitely helps eliminate some of those winter blues,” Kelly says. “It's a mental benefit for everyone, even the dog! My big dog, a Great Pyrenees named Adekes, LOVES snow. He would stay out there for hours if we would let him.” Winter hiking or snowshoeing offers a whole new view of the woods. You can see through the woods to what may be on the other side of that tree or what may be around the corner. A lot of times in the summer months when everything is all green and lush, you miss seeing things like animal tracks or the way the ice forms on certain objects. A snow-filled scene is like no other—the way it settles on the trees is always different and always beautiful. If you’re ready to go snowshoeing, any kind of snow will work…but a brand-new snowfall is the best. There’s nothing better than a fresh snowfall when it has gotten just cold enough to form a nice, crunchy layer on the top. Watch out for icy areas or icy weather conditions because you’ll be too busy watching your step to enjoy nature’s beauty.

• Holiday Shopping Guide to the Quad Cities

  seeker (Seeker Editors)
  'Tis the season for twinkling lights, festive carols, and the all-important holiday shopping spree! If you find yourself in the charming Quad Cities this time of the year, you're in luck. Nestled along the Mississippi River, this vibrant community boasts a unique blend of big-city amenities and small-town charm, making it the perfect backdrop for your season's gift-hunting adventures. From quaint boutiques in Davenport to specialty stores in Moline, each city offers a treasure trove of finds. Whether you're on the hunt for hand-crafted artisan gifts in Rock Island or seeking out the latest gadgets in Bettendorf, our Holiday Shopping Guide to the Quad Cities is your go-to resource for uncovering the best local spots to check off everything on your gift list. So grab your coziest scarf, sip on some hot cocoa, and let's dive into the holiday hustle and bustle of these festive riverfront cities!

• Best Things to Do in the Quad Cities

  seeker (Seeker Editors)

• What to Do in the Quad Cities: Hiking, Gardens, and Cafe Hopping

  speterss365 (Stacey Peters)
  <p>I love looking for things to do, both indoors and out. The Quad Cities, stretching along the scenic Mississippi River, blend outdoor adventures and charming café experiences. This vibrant region has something for everyone, including Davenport and Bettendorf in Iowa, Rock Island, Moline, and East Moline in Illinois. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these five activities showcase what the Quad Cities offer, promising memorable moments and unique experiences. There's always something exciting to discover, from picturesque riverfront parks to cozy indoor attractions. </p><p>The Quad Cities provide a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm. Whether hiking through historic sites, strolling in botanical gardens, or sipping coffee in cozy cafes, there’s something here for everyone. So, lace up your walking shoes, grab your coffee cup, and explore!</p><p></p>

• Things to do in the Quad Cities if you're in town for RAGBRAI or Bix 7

  visitquadcities (Visit Quad Cities )
  The last weekend in July is always a big party in downtown Davenport, Iowa and the entire Quad Cities with the Quad-City Times Bix 7 road race and the festivities surrounding the race on Saturday morning. This year we are adding the 50th anniversary of RAGBRAI and 30,000 cyclists so it is sure to be an even bigger celebration in the QC. We are dubbing that weekend as #BixBRAI weekend and here is what's happening in downtown Davenport! There are even more events happening throughout the Quad Cities.

• QC Dog Parks

  visitquadcities (Visit Quad Cities )
  Everyone has energy to burn off, and that even includes your dogs. The Quad Cities has many options for dog parks where dogs can run off-leash and play with other dogs. Take your dog and find a favorite or dog park hop. We have put together a list of dog parks in the QC.

• Holiday Shopping Guide: Local Quad Cities treasures

  visitquadcities (Visit Quad Cities )
  The Quad Cities takes great pride in its local makers. This holiday gift guide will help you decide where to find those authentic treasures that your family and friends will adore.

• 8 ways to feel like a kid again in the Quad Cities

  visitquadcities (Visit Quad Cities )
  Release your inner child in the Quad Cities with our all-ages, family fun opportunities!

• Coziest Coffee Shops in the Quad Cities

  visitquadcities (Visit Quad Cities )
  Coffee is always a good idea. Everything gets better with coffee. Conversation is the best ingredient of coffee. Coffee is a Hug in a Mug. There's always time for coffee. Great ideas start with great coffee. If my life had a flavor, it would be coffee. When we asked Quad Citizens for their favorite cozy coffee shops, there were lots of answers from establishments that have been in the QC for decades to new shops we've just recently embraced. The ambiance and flavors available are diverse and welcoming. Many of our favorites can also be found on the Quad Cities Coffee Trail where you can enjoy coffee and get prizes! QCCoffeeTrail.com

• QC Family Pass

  visitquadcities (Visit Quad Cities )
  Many of our family favorites are highlighted in the QC Family Pass. Visitors and Quad Citizens alike will love it.

• FAVORITE INDOOR PLACES IN THE QC

  visitquadcities (Visit Quad Cities )
  Find time to rediscover some of the Quad Cities’ favorite indoor places. Explore history, Get creative, Be active, Drive tractors, Stop to smell the flowers, and Discover science all here in the QC.

• Top 3 Hiking Trails in the Quad Cities for Nature Lovers

  speterss365 (Stacey Peters)
  <p>Conveniently located near winding paths along the Mississippi River, hiking in the Quad Cities area offers a blend of urban charm and natural beauty, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Don't expect mountain views in the Quad Cities. Still, whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking to stretch your legs in the fresh air, these hiking spots are perfect for a refreshing escape, panoramic scenic views, beautiful nature, and lots of wildlife.</p><p>Exploring the Scenic Trails of the Quad Cities: Top Hikes for Every Adventurer</p><p>The Quad Cities offer a variety of scenic trails perfect for adventurers of all levels. One trail features lush forests and a rich history, ideal for leisurely hikes. Another provides stunning riverside views and serene walks along the water. The third trail offers diverse terrain, challenging the more adventurous hiker. Each trail promises unique landscapes and memorable outdoor experiences.</p><p>Each trail in the Quad Cities offers unique experiences, from historical insights at the Black Hawk State Historic Site to the floral displays at Illiniwek Forest Preserve. You'll have to venture a little further away from the QC to hike any trails with elevation. However, these trails provide physical challenges and opportunities to learn and appreciate the natural and cultural heritage of the area. Whether you're in the mood for a historical hike or a scenic stroll, these trails will enrich your outdoor adventures in the Quad Cities. So lace up your hiking boots, pack your water bottle, and prepare for an adventure that rejuvenates body and spirit in the heart of America's Midwest.</p>

• QC Black Owned Eateries

  visitquadcities (Visit Quad Cities )
  Celebrating Black History month is a great reminder to support Black owned business in the Quad Cities. We have several Black owned restaurants, lounges, and coffee shops to devour all year long.

• Terrific Train Sites and Sightings in the Quad Cities

  visitquadcities (Visit Quad Cities )
  For those who love (or even just like) trains, the Quad Cities is a wonderland of interesting facts, historical significance, fun adventures, and enjoyable viewing. You’ll find delightful toy trains, exciting train rides, and big imposing engines.

• Best QC Restaurants to Celebrate Lunar New Year

  visitquadcities (Visit Quad Cities )
  Lunar New Year is a celebration of the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new year on the lunisolar calendar. Besides wearing red, I highly suggest taking the opportunity to enjoy some of the best restaurants in the Quad Cities. It falls on Sunday, January 22nd, 2023, starting a year of the Rabbit. Years of the Rabbit include 2023, 2011, 1999, 1987, 1975, 1963, 1951, 1939, 1927…

• Incredible Libraries

  seeker (Seeker Editors)
  Spend a day or two lost amongst thousands of books on any subject you can imagine at these distinguished libraries around the world. From the edgy contemporary architecture of the Tianjin Binhai Library in China to the massive baroque-embracing library of Admont Abbey in Austria, there is so much to be discovered. We have handpicked some of the most incredible libraries from around the globe for your inner bookworm.

• Coolest Places to Go Camping

  seeker (Seeker Editors)
  Sandy deserts, cool mountain air, rocky coastlines with picture-perfect views, no matter what you are seeking we have found the best campsite for you. Across the globe there are endless awe-inspiring destinations to immerse yourself in nature, we have selected some of our favorite locations for your next adventure. Let's explore what this amazing earth has to offer and live off the beaten path at these cool camping destinations.

• State Capitals in the U.S

  seeker (Seeker Editors)
  With 50 states across the USA boasting a vibrant and culturally rich capital city, there are plenty of awesome destinations for your next adventure. From ultra-trendy Salt Lake City to historical Boston, these beaming metropolises encompass the famously American melting pot. For some USA travel inspo, here is our list of every capital city across the country.

Iowa Articles

• America’s Next National Park? Top Contenders for 2023

  In 2019, White Sands National Park became America’s 62nd national park. Two years later, New River Gorge National Park became the nation’s 63rd. Now we’re all wondering: which park will take the title next? Lucky for us, the top contenders for America’s next national park include scenic national forests, ancient cultural sites, lazy rivers, and […]

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