“Day-Tripping” listings
-
HENDERSON COUNTY
Whether you’re into history or the great outdoors, you’ll find fun here: Abraham Lincoln and his militia marched through the area during the Black Hawk War of 1832, and the Big River State Forest is home to the Lincoln/Sac Indian Trail. (07/2010)
66 miles southwest of Quad Cities
hendersoncountyedc.com -
DIXON, IL
This town encompasses 25 parks, with five state parks and forest preserves within a 15-minute drive of one another. Parts of Lowell Park were inspired by recommendations from the Olmsted brothers, sons of the man who designed New York’s Central Park. (05/2010)
71 miles northeast of Moline
discoverdixon.org -
ALBANY, IL
Depending on your vacation style, you can hike or bike trails to ancient burial mounds, shop for antiques or just take a peaceful drive along the Mississippi River in this adorable village. (03/2010)
38 miles northeast of Moline
-
PLATTEVILLE, WI
In addition to boasting a University of Wisconsin campus, this small town is home to the Mining Museum, a historic shopping center, quaint country inns and the Rountree Gallery, which features regional art. (01/2010)
101 miles north of Quad Cities
platteville.com -
PORT BYRON, IL
With a population of just 1,600, this adorable historic town is nestled on a bend in the Mississippi River. Quaint restaurants with river views, antique stores and friendly residents make it a great place to spend the day-or a weekend. (12/2009)
16 miles northeast of Moline
www.portbyronil.com -
ELDRIDGE, IA
Small-town hospitality is alive and well in this scenic country town. Stop by this month to enjoy the Eldridge Summer Festival (July 10 and 11) and Moonlight Chase 4-mile Run (July 11). Any other time, come for their great restaurants and historic sites. (07/2009)
14 miles north of Moline
563-328-3283 -
BELLEVUE, IA
Meaning "beautiful view," Bellevue offers panoramic vistas of the Mississippi River. Nestled between towering bluffs and the river, this town gives visitors plenty of places to relax with nature. (03/2009)
65 miles north of Moline
563-872-5830
www.bellevueia.com -
OREGON, IL
Shouldering the banks of the scenic Rock River, this historic town offers dinner theater, restaurants and gift shops galore. Stop by the nearby White Pines Forest State Park, where overnight guests can stay in one of 13 oneroom log cabins. (02/2009)
83 miles northeast of Moline
www.oregonil.com -
BURLINGTON, IA
Overlooking the bluffs of the Mississippi River, this historic community offers modern excitement, including a massive family fun center, excellent spas and the famous Snake Alley (which Ripley's Believe It or Not calls "The Crookedest Street in the World"). (01/2009)
75 miles southwest of Moline
800-827-4837
www.growburlington.com -
MUSCATINE, IA
Come see a quirky side of history in this onetime "pearl button capital of the world." Wander the 19th-century streets, browse antiques shops, and learn about the town's 45 button factories at the history museum. (12/2008)
37 miles east of Moline
www.meetmuscatine.com -
MONMOUTH, IL
A quintessential Midwestern town with historic pioneer roots, Monmouth is home to Wyatt Earp's birthplace and a smattering of quaint downtown shops and restaurants. The traditional campus at Monmouth College is a must-see, too. (11/2008)
46 miles south of Moline
309-734-3181
www.monmouthilchamber.com -
NAUVOO, IL
Nestled in a bend on the Mississippi River, historic Nauvoo offers picturesque scenery, great golfing and the state's oldest winery. (10/2008)
103 miles southwest of Moline
217-453-6648
www.beautifulnauvoo.com
