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Spring Break ideas in the Quad Cities

Your Spring Break vacation doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are four ways locals can enjoy a “staycation” in the Quad Cities.

Treat Yourself
It’s spring break! Live a little and give in to the little luxuries the Quad Cities region has to offer.

Book some time at The Spa at Rhythm City Casino Resort or take advantage of the Romance Package hotel stay at Bally’s Quad Cities. Did you know the Isle Casino Hotel in Bettendorf is the largest hotel in Iowa? Enjoy some fine dining at Keller's American Grill Rerstaurant and then try your luck across the nearly 1,000 slot machines and 20 table games.

Get yourself a little treat on the QC Coffee Trail and QC Ale Trail! These trails are each a collection of our region's great coffee shops and microbreweries. Sign up (FOR FREE) and sip your way to great prizes!

Get Outside 

There are more than 100 miles of riverfront trails in our great region. Hop on a bike, grab your walking buddy, or take the dog out for a stroll. Explore these scenic views across the Great River Trail, Hennepin Canal Trail, American Discovery Trail, the Mississippi River Trail, and many more. Find information on our trail system here.

Take the time to visit the glass oculus at the center of the I-74 Bridge pedestrian path. Get the family on their bikes and enjoy that beautiful Mississippi River view. Great for a photo op as well! Speaking of bikes, the season of free bike rentals is upon us! Check Visit Quad Cities social media to see when bike rentals are available for the season.

If you're more of an indoor pet, you can still enjoy some classic activities like golf at The Rock Pile at Pebble Creek in LeClaire. Five covered bays allow for sheltered driving range practice, an all-weather solution. When you're emptied your bucket head over to Jerry's for lunch and a cocktail at their full-service outdoor bar.

Immerse Yourself in History and Culture

The Quad Cities carries a rich history from the active military base on Arsenal Island to the deep roots of the Sauk and Meskwaki people, there is much to discover.

Grab a visitor pass (here's what you need to know) and step onto the Island. Walk the national cemetery, visit the Rock Island Arsenal Museum, and check out the historical attractions including the Colonel Davenport House and Memorial Park.

At the John Hauberg Museum of Native American Life, you can learn the story of the Sauk and Meskwaki people through interpretive maps, artifacts and seaonal dioramas. Get even deeper with a free handheld audio tour that takes you through a whole year with the last two Native American tribes who lived in the Missisisppi River Valley. 

The Figge Art Museum is a gem along the River, offering works from interntional artists to more local creators in their temporary exhibit “The Rock Island Art Guild Fine Arts Exhibition” that runs through June. Enjoy a science-centered experience at the Putnam or be part of their monthly lecture series, “History on Tap.” The March edition is about Bucktown on Thursday, March 21.

Hang With the Family

A staycation can be a great time to catch back up with the family. The QC Family Pass allows you experience more for less mulah. 

From BOGO admission at the Family Museum to a half-priced jump session at Elevate, take some time to let loose and enjoy some family time. 

Our professional sports scene is a great way to get everyone in the spring break spirit. The Quad City Steamwheelers have their opening night at the Vibrant Arena on March 22. Cheer them on as they go head-to-head with the Sioux Falls Storm. The Quad City Storm are also home at Vibrant on March 8, 9 for their games against Macon Mayhem and again on March 29 and 30 against the Peoria Rivermen. 

Looking for more ideas? Get inspired with our newly-launched 2024 Quad Cities Destination Guide.