Downtowns

Vibrant downtowns in the Quad Cities


QC, That’s Where a family of vibrant cities forms a lively community of downtowns, each one with their own unique strengths. Downtown QC is the heart and soul of our unique region, with each downtown nestled along the mighty Mississippi River making this one of nature’s most gorgeous backgrounds. Plus, with multiple bridges connecting our communities, it provides ease of connectivity, by car, bike or by foot from one downtown to the next.

There’s no better place to enjoy time with family and friends than in downtown Quad Cities, where immaculate river views give businesses a uniquely QC aesthetic. Wherever you’re going in downtown QC, the streets are filled with the best spots to enjoy all that our businesses have to offer. From local eats, drinks and shops to playing, staying and living, plus festivals, historic buildings, parks, landmarks and breathtaking view - we invite you to discover each downtown.


Downtown Bettendorf, IA

You'll find downtown Bettendorf just at the foot of the I-74 bridge, which connects Iowa to Illinois and features a pedestrian walkway. This community and downtown is experiencing a renaissance, with new restaurants and shops opening. It features the Quad Cities Waterfront Convention Center, situated along the Mississippi River, which hosts many of the area’s top events. Just a couple blocks away, the Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf offers adults a chance to win big in downtown Bettendorf. Every summer, Bettendorf’s Be Downtown event celebrates the city’s birthday with a family-friendly all-day festival.


Downtown Davenport, IA

Downtown Davenport has many of the region’s top attractions. Modern Woodmen Park is situated right on the Mississippi River and has been named the best minor league ballpark in the country. Places like the Figge Art Museum, Adler Theatre and Freight House Farmers’ Market present ample opportunities to enjoy a day in the QC. Don’t forget about the Alternating Currents festival and the Mississippi Valley Blues Festival, which bring energy and fun to downtown Davenport every summer.


Downtown East Moline, IL

Downtown East Moline's newest project, The Bend, is among the QC’s hottest developments. The Bend features new hotels with incredible river views, the Bend XPO Center, River Bend Park outdoor amphitheater, the Rust Belt concert venue, dining and more. East Moline boasts extensive river trails straddling the downtown area, making it one of the area’s most pristine riverfronts.


Downtown LeClaire, IA

Downtown LeClaire is a top spot for weekend getaways for residents across the region. Lined with live music venues, restaurants and unique shops, downtown LeClaire has something for all visitors. Annual events like Tug Fest on the Mississippi River is one of the QC region's most coveted weekends. Riverboat cruises, concerts, car shows and more all contribute to creating downtown LeClaire's distinct riverfront identity.


Downtown Moline, IL

Moline Centre offers numerous restaurants, shops and attractions. Vibrant Arena at The Mark is the region’s main arena, hosting sporting events, concerts and entertainment. Just across the street is the John Deere Pavilion, home to the official John Deere visitor center. The summer brings numerous festivals and markets, including Mercado on Fifth, the Bass Street Summer Concert Series, Lighting on the Commons and the newly announced Mo.Live music festival.


Downtown Rock Island, IL

Schweibert Riverfront Park is one of the QC’s premier community parks along the Mississippi River featuring a playground, an outdoor amphitheater, a spray ground and more. Circa ‘21 Dinner Playhouse and Speakeasy, the Quad City Botanical Center and Rock Island’s downtown business district highlight some of the city’s most prized attractions. Plus, it’s headquarters two fraternal insurance companies: Modern Woodmen of America and Royal Neighbors of America.


Downtown Silvis, IL

Silvis Main Street has some of the best shops, eats and drinks that QC downtowns have to offer. The Railroad Park Gazebo provides a pristine downtown venue for live music and events. Businesses are flourishing in downtown Silvis, especially local favorites like Frank's Pizzeria.


Downtown Organizations managed by the Quad Cities Chamber

The Quad Cities Chamber has the honor of managing three downtowns in the Quad Cities. From attracting visitors, hosting events and helping business accomplish their goals, the Chamber's place management organizations are creating a more vibrant QC downtown community through collaboration and hard work.

Kyle Carter
Contact
Kyle Carter
Vice President, Place Management / Executive Director, Downtown Davenport Partnership
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Downtown Bettendorf Organization
The Downtown Bettendorf Organization mission is to administer and operate programs for the general improvement and redevelopment of Bettendorf’s Central Business District and SSMID and to enhance its aesthetic appearance and economic future for our community and citizens.
Downtown Davenport Partnership
Downtown Davenport Partnership provides leadership and advocacy for downtown economic development, planning, cultural vitality, events, marketing and clean-and-safe initiatives. DDP administers the downtown Davenport Self-Supported Municipal Improvement District (SSMID).
Rock Island Downtown Alliance
The Rock Island Downtown Alliance (RIDA) formed in 2023 as a joint effort between the public and private sectors to strengthen livability and quality of place in downtown Rock Island. RIDA, partnered with the City of Rock Island to staff, manage and implement Downtown Special Service Area (SSA) programs.
Map of the Quad Cities region
The heart of the Midwest
QC, That's Where? It's where two states and one mighty Mississippi River are home to a family of communities making the Midwest's future.