Explore East Moline, Illinois

Affectionately referred to as EasMo, East Moline is located next door to Moline (just east, really) on the Illinois side of the Mississippi River in the Quad Cities region.

East Moline has gone through a major riverfront revitalization on the land that once housed the former Case IH plant. Called The Bend, it includes a dual-branded Hyatt Place/Hyatt House hotel offering breathtaking river views. Don’t miss the Riverview Room on the 9th floor, a go-to spot for a Sunset Shot—a local tradition—along with craft cocktails, light bites, and desserts. The Bend also features Bend XPO, Bend Events Center, the Riverside Park outdoor amphitheater, modern apartments, and space for future development. Just steps away is the Rust Belt neighborhood—a redeveloped former manufacturing site now filled with energy and entertainment. The Rust Belt itself is a warehouse-style venue that hosts concerts, comedians, weddings, vendor shows, wrestling, and more, with a capacity of up to 4,000. The surrounding building is home to local favorites like Midwest Ale Works microbrewery, Iron + Grain Coffee House (on the QC Coffee Trail), Jennie’s Boxcar and additional shops and businesses. An EasMo tradition is The Palace, a favorite restaurant and gathering spot among locals and be sure to hit up Bragg BBQ as it will not disappoint.

Another major presence in East Moline is the John Deere Harvester Works, one of the largest combine factories in the world. Visitors can explore the renovated visitor center and gift shop. Outdoor enthusiasts can walk or bike the Great River Trail, which winds through East Moline’s scenic riverfront. Families will enjoy Empire Park, home to a sprawling wooden jungle gym, and nearby seasonal fun at Stone’s Apple Barn, where you can pick apples, meet farm animals, shop for fall treats, and try what many say is the best kettle corn around.

The community celebrates a variety of events throughout the year, including Cinco De Mayo, Freedom Fest, the Veterans Memorial 5K, Firecracker Run on the Fourth of July, and the Lighted Christmas Parade in December. Foodies can find everything from comfort food to craft coffee. Whiskey Stop (with live music), Coya’s, Taqueria Any Lu, and Adolph’s offer memorable meals. Coffee lovers can sip their way through East Moline’s spots on the QC Coffee Trail, including Iron + Grain Coffee House, East Moline Coffee Co., and Jaded Java. Nature lovers will enjoy a peaceful escape at Amowa Forest Preserve, located just outside the city.

SOME HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE