Davenport, Iowa

Davenport, Iowa, is situated on the north bank of the Mississippi River, near the Illinois state border. It is one of the Quad Cities, the other three being Moline and Rock Island, Illinois, and Bettendorf, Iowa. Davenport is located within five miles (eight kilometers) of the other three Quad Cities, and 75 miles (121 kilometers) southwest of Cedar Rapids. Davenport is the seat of Scott County, and is home to 98,359 people.

The Putnam Museum and IMAX Theatre is one of the city's star attractions, and tells the history of the Mississippi River Valley through 160,000 artifacts and a variety of exhibits. The museum also offers Iowa's only 3D IMAX theater, along with historical plays and re-enactments. The Figge Art Museum is another top-notch cultural attraction, and houses more than 3,500 artworks from around the world.

Many would argue that the heart and soul of the Mississippi River lies in the music of its people, and there's no better place to appreciate it than at the River Music Experience. This unique center offers a variety of interactive exhibits, including film screenings, a scale model of the S.S. Capitol steamboat that once carried music along the Mississippi, and computer "ear ports" containing more than 300 biographies and 1,000 audio files. And of course, the center also features many live concerts.

For a fun day with the kids, head to the Fejervary Park Children's Zoo and Aquatic Center. Here you can greet the animals in the beautiful 75-acre (30-hectare) park, or beat the summer heat with the help of waterslides, splash zones, and outdoor pools. The Davenport Parks and Recreation Department manages many beautiful parks and four public golf courses, including the Credit Island Golf Course, where you can play nine holes of golf in the middle of the Mississippi River! Credit Island also offers many other recreational opportunities, including eagle-watching, fishing, boating, sports, hiking, and biking. Vander Veer Botanical Park is another highlight, and attracts 25,000 visitors each year with its seasonal floral displays. The park's rose garden is a must-see and contains 1,800 roses of 145 different varieties.

For a great night on the town, enjoy a concert by the Quad City Symphony Orchestra, or check out the latest performance at the RiverCentre and Adler Theatre. You can also catch a Swing of the Quad Cities hometown baseball game, or try your luck on one of the 1,000 slot machines found in the Rhythm City Casino.

Looking for more gaming excitement? You'll find it in the Quad Cities' many land-based and riverboat casinos. Also be sure to explore heritage attractions like Moline's John Deere Historic Site and Rock Island Arsenal Museum; take the kids to Bettendorf's Family Museum of Arts and Science; or catch a thrilling show at Moline's The Mark of the Quad Cities.

Want all the attractions and amenities of four cities at your doorstep? Then Davenport is the place for you!

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