Quad Cities River Adventure

Get a great introduction to the Mississippi River with a ride on the Celebration Belle riverboat. The riverboat’s captain narrates the cruise and shares some of the rich history of the area. You’ll view the largest roller dam in the world at Lock and Dam #15. Get a treat at Lagomarcino's, a century-old soda fountain that will transport you back to the days of the Model T. Spend the afternoon at the gardens of the Quad City Botanical Center learning about beautiful native plants and some tropical ones too. Stay at the ornate Axis Hotel, which includes elements of the original 1920s building and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 

Now it’s time to direct your own boat. Lake George at the Loud Thunder Forest Preserve has a variety of boats to rent. Try jon boats (small two-person pontoon boats), kayaks, canoes, and regular pontoon boats. Spend the rest of the day at Niabi Zoo's outdoor exhibits with over 600 animals representing 200 different species. See species native to the Midwest and from around the world. End your QC River Adventure watching the sun set on the river at Schwiebert Riverfront Park enjoying a sweet treat from Whitey’s Ice Cream.