Wedding Weekend Guide: What to Do in the Quad Cities for Out-of-Town Guests
Planning a wedding in the Quad Cities? If you have friends and family traveling in for the big day, you’ll want to make sure they have plenty to do while they’re in town. The Quad Cities offers a variety of activities, from scenic riverfront views to historic sites, lively entertainment, and amazing local dining. Here’s a complete guide to help your guests make the most of their wedding weekend in the QC!
Friday: Welcome to the Quad Cities!
Check-in & Explore
After arriving, your guests will want to settle in. Some great hotel options include:
The Current Iowa (Davenport, IA) – A boutique hotel with artistic charm and a rooftop bar.
Hotel Blackhawk (Davenport, IA) – Historic elegance with modern amenities.
Element Moline (Moline, IL) – Stylish and comfortable, located near the TaxSlayer Center.
Axis Hotel (Moline, IL) - Modern luxury meets historic charm in the heart of downtown Moline.
Rhythm City (Davenport, IA) - Elegant casino resort offering gaming, dining, and live entertainment.
The Merrill (Muscatine, IA) - Luxurious riverfront hotel offering elegant accommodations and stunning Mississippi River views.
Welcome Dinner & Drinks
Kick off the weekend with a casual meet-up at one of these great spots:
Monarch Kitchen + Bar (Bettendorf, IA) - Stylish eatery serving creative dishes, craft cocktails, and a chic ambiance.
Mississippi River Distilling Company (LeClaire, IA) – Craft cocktails and small bites with river views.
Duck City Bistro (Davenport, IA) - Upscale dining with a chef-driven menu and an intimate atmosphere.
Ruthie’s (Davenport, IA) - Upscale steakhouse inside Rhythm City Casino, serving premium cuts, fresh seafood, and fine wines.
If your guests want some evening entertainment, they can check out a live performance at The Adler Theatre or catch a comedy show at The Speakeasy in Rock Island.
Saturday: Explore & Celebrate
Morning Activities
Coffee & Breakfast: Fuel up at 392Caffe (Davenport) or Atomic Coffee Bar (Bettendorf).
Explore the Outdoors: Enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride along the Mississippi Riverfront Trail.
Shop Local: Stroll through the charming shops in LeClaire, home to Antique Archaeology, the famous store from “American Pickers.”
Pre-Wedding Fun
If your guests have time before the wedding, they might enjoy:
Figge Art Museum (Davenport, IA) – A mix of modern and historical art.
Putnam Museum & Science Center (Davenport, IA) – Perfect for families with kids.
Rhythm City Casino or Bally’s Casino – A fun way to pass the time before getting dressed up for the main event!
Wedding Celebration!
Whether you’re hosting at a vineyard, riverfront venue, or historic estate, it’s time for your guests to celebrate with you!
Sunday: Farewell Brunch & Sightseeing
Brunch Spots
Before guests hit the road, treat them to a delicious brunch at:
Bix Bistro (Davenport, IA) – Classic brunch with a touch of elegance.
QC Coffee and Pancake House (Rock Island, IL) – A local favorite with generous portions.
Machine Shed (Davenport, IA) - Rustic, farm-themed eatery known for hearty Midwestern comfort food and a legendary farmhouse-style breakfast.
Final QC Attractions
For those with time before heading home:
Niabi Zoo (Coal Valley, IL) – Great for families.
Freight House Farmers’ Market (Davenport, IA) – Local produce, crafts, and more.
John Deere Pavilion (Moline, IL) – An interactive experience for machinery and history lovers.
Make It a Weekend to Remember!
The Quad Cities is full of unique experiences for your wedding guests to enjoy. Whether they’re foodies, history buffs, or outdoor adventurers, they’ll find plenty to do in between wedding events. By planning a few activities or providing recommendations, you can ensure your out-of-town guests have an unforgettable experience while celebrating your big day!
