In July 2023, @missnortherner spent several days exploring Muscatine, Quad Cities and LeClaire. “These three charming Iowa towns are situated right on the Mississippi River and just a short drive away from one another,” she said. “This was a part of the Midwest that I really wasn’t familiar with, and I was so surprised at how much there was to do here! I loved having such a wide variety of things to choose from depending on what we were feeling each day.” Replicate her trip.
Day One
Start your trip in Muscatine by getting outside on the forested hiking trails at Wildcat Den State Park. Get your cameras ready to capture one of the most breathtaking state parks in Iowa. Diverse trails offer captivating views of natural formations like “Steamboat Rock” and the “Devils Punch Bowl.” While at the park, history buffs can take a tour of the Pine Creek Grist Mill, built in 1848, and the one-room Melpine schoolhouse.
Check out Muscatine’s craft brewery, Contrary Brewing, for a sampling of local cider, wine, canned cocktails and, of course, beer. In fact, you’ll find 20 taps featuring unique brews like Pineapple Orange Jalapeno Sour, Peanut Butter Porter, Wolfbite Amber Lager and the Happy Birthday Hefe with notes of banana, clove and bubblegum.
After drinks, head to Maxwell’s on the River, located in the Merrill Hotel and along the Mississippi River. Known for its fresh, local and sustainable offerings, be sure to try one of their signature dishes which include short ribs, half chicken and Bolognese.
Get a good night’s rest at The Merrill Hotel, a 4-Diamond boutique hotel that boasts 122 guest rooms, located in downtown Muscatine. It’s in the perfect location for exploring all that the city has to offer.
Day Two
Immerse yourself in more local history by heading to the National Pearl Button Museum. Muscatine was known as “the Pearl Buton Capital of the World” in the early 1900s, manufacturing more than 1.5 billion mother-of-pearl buttons each year. The museum highlights the unique story of the region’s immigrant-entrepreneurs, laborers and the buttons themselves.
Enjoy the quick drive to Davenport and get ready for a great time. If you plan to visit during baseball season, catch a Quad Cities River Bandits home game for a fun outing with the whole family. Recently voted the nation’s Best Minor League Ballpark, Modern Woodmen Park is a great spot to enjoy America’s favorite pastime. If you visit on $2 Tuesdays, you can enjoy tickets, sodas and hot dogs for – you guessed it -- only $2 each!
Soak up views of the river and wrap up your day by catching the sunset with a rooftop nightcap at UP Skybar, which is located on top of the Current Hotel.
On the banks of the Mississippi River, the art-inspired Current Hotel is within walking distance of many Davenport attractions.
Day Three
After arriving in LeClaire, visit the Wide River Winery tasting room and sample a selection of red, white, fruit-based and new release wines.
For dinner, check out Steventon’s. Located on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, the extensive menu includes American classics and cuisine like colossal crab stuffed shrimp, whiskey NY strip, herb crusted lamb and tasty flatbreads.
The Grasshoppers Guest House Too is cozy and full of charm. It’s the perfect lodging experience to feel like a local. Enjoy views of downtown from the front porch with easy access to shopping and dining.
Day Four
For a unique history experience, transport yourself to the wild west with a visit to the Buffalo Bill Museum for curated exhibits, kid’s activities and a one-room schoolhouse replica where kids can use an original “tablet.”
Peruse the shops in downtown LeClaire to explore local treasures. The Shameless Chocoholic offers over 120 varieties of truffles, fudge, vintage candy and seasonal chocolates. Find beautiful, everyday arrangements at the Cody Rose Flower Company. And discover that perfect home décor item you’ve been looking for at Dwellings, which features artwork, seasonal pieces and more.
Close out your visit with another river cruise on the Riverboat Twilight. This elegant, Victorian-style riverboat offers a 90-minute sightseeing cruise where you can take in the views of river towns and catch a glimpse of local wildlife. You can also bring a sack lunch or snacks to enjoy during your trip.
