Quad Cities Destination Guide

Fun Family BY KATRINA KEUNING

Figge Art Museum

T he Quad Cities is all in for family, offering for everyone in your group. The Quad Cities is home to more than 20 museums and historic sites. Feed a giraffe at the Niabi Zoo , engage in waterplay at The Family Museum , unleash your inner paleontologist in the seasonal Dino Dig exhibit or see how Quad Cities history comes to life in the Common Ground exhibit at the Putnam Museum and Science Center . Some places to learn about prominent figures in Quad Cities history would be the Bix Beiderbecke Museum , the Buffalo Bill Museum or the Butterworth Center & Deere-Wiman House . The Black Hawk State Historic Site is great for endless ways to mix and match activities for all ages. With diverse attractions close to one another, it’s easy to create memorable moments families who want to balance some outdoor time with an easy-to-digest museum visit. The site is a 213-acre park that showcases the cultural history and natural assets of the Quad Cities. When you venture into the John Hauberg Museum you’ll make discoveries related to Black Hawk’s life, and the Sauk and Meskwaki people. The 3D models and hands-on educational opportunities are enjoyed by adults and kids alike. The Figge Art Museum is also a great spot for families who want to have a slower-paced arts and culture experience. The museum hosts nine permanent collections along with multiple rotating galleries for repeat visitors. The professional sports landscape in the QC is both exciting and easily accessible, given the pedestrian and commuter friendliness of our downtowns. Vibrant Arena at The MARK in Moline is where the Quad City Storm plays hockey and the Quad City Steamwheelers play indoor football. The Arena is close to hotels and restaurants and neighbors the Mighty Mississippi. Across the river is Modern Woodmen Park where the River Bandits play baseball with a backdrop of unrivaled riverfront views. For those who want to get in on the action themselves, head to Iron Tee Golf . With over 50 driving range bays, arcade games, mini-golf,

The Family Museum

delicious food and drinks, and a fantastic space for parties and gatherings, it’s fun for the whole family. Other family-friendly ideas (coming from a mom with two littles): Arsenal Island: Explore an active military base with natural beauty, a playground, splash pad, and the interactive Rock Island Arsenal Museum . Browning Park: This 2.67-acre park features playsets for all ages and is steps away from QC favorites Country Style and Whitey’s Ice Cream , plus authentic Mexican eats at La Rancherita 2 . Channel Cat Water Taxi: Ride between Iowa and Illinois on this relaxing water taxi, with stunning views of the Mississippi from four dock locations.

38 VisitQuadCities.com

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