Discover the Best Day Trips around the Quad Cities

Looking for fun places near the Quad Cities? QC.LocalDayTrips.com is your local guide to unforgettable adventures across Iowa and Illinois — all within easy driving distance. Plan a spontaneous weekend, a family road trip, or a day away without going far!

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Putnam Museum & Science Center

The Putnam Museum & Science Center in Davenport, Iowa is a regional treasure offering hands-on exhibits, giant screen films, and immersive experiences in science, history, and culture. Visitors of all ages can explore everything from ancient civilizations to modern innovation — all under one roof.

#Educational
#Food Nearby
#Great for Photos
#Indoor
#Kid Friendly
#Large Group Activities
#Less Than 1 Hour Away
#Paid Admission
#Walkins Welcome
#Wheelchair Accessible
Putnam Museum & Science Center

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Putnam Museum & Science Center

Putnam Museum & Science Center

The Putnam Museum & Science Center in Davenport, Iowa is a regional treasure offering hands-on exhibits, giant screen films, and immersive experiences in science, history, and culture. Visitors of all ages can explore everything from ancient civilizations to modern innovation — all under one roof.

🍿 Drive-In & Indie Movies
🏛️ History Museums
Educational
Food Nearby
Great for Photos
Indoor
Kid Friendly
Large Group Activities
Less Than 1 Hour Away
Paid Admission
Walkins Welcome
Wheelchair Accessible

John Deere Pavilion

Explore the legacy of American innovation at John Deere’s Quad Cities attractions. From hands-on exhibits at the John Deere Pavilion to immersive history at the John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum and the historic Deere family home, these destinations bring agriculture, technology, and Midwest pride to life for visitors of all ages. Addresses (key locations): John Deere Pavilion 1400 River Dr, Moline, IL 61265 Tractor & Engine Museum 500 W. Field Ave, Waterloo, IA 50701 (Note: not in Quad Cities but sometimes mentioned as part of extended visits) Historic Deere Family Home (Butterworth Center & Deere-Wiman House) 1105 8th St, Moline, IL 61265

🏰 Historic Landmarks
🏛️ History Museums
Educational
Free Admission
Great for Photos
Indoor
Kid Friendly
Less Than 1 Hour Away
Outdoor
Wheelchair Accessible

Old Capitol Museum | The University of Iowa

Welcome to the Old Capitol Museum. At the center of the University of Iowa campus, featuring history of our state and university, the museum is a National Historic Landmark and welcomes guests to explore Iowa history. Restored period rooms, tours, special events, and more, visit the museum for

🏛️ History Museums

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