In This Article

1. Figge Art Museum

Figge Art Museum

© Figge Art Museum

  • What is the Figge Art Museum?
    • The Figge Art Museum is a prominent art museum in Davenport, Iowa.
    • It started as the Davenport Municipal Art Gallery in 1925 with a gift of 330 artworks from Charles A. Ficke, a former mayor of Davenport.
  • When did the museum change its name?
    • In 1987, the gallery was renamed the Davenport Museum of Art.
    • In 2005, after major donations from the V.O. and Elizabeth Kahl Figge Foundation, it became the Figge Art Museum.
  • Who designed the current museum building?
    • The museum moved to a modern glass building in 2005, designed by David Chipperfield.
    • The building quickly became a city landmark.
  • What collections does the Figge Art Museum hold?
    • The museum’s permanent collection includes:
      • Charles A. Ficke’s collection of American, European, and Spanish Viceregal art
      • The Grant Wood Archive
      • Works by American Regionalist artists
      • A significant collection of Haitian art
      • A number of contemporary works
  • What other activities does the museum offer?
    • The museum’s art studios, auditorium, and large lobby are always active with:
      • Art classes
      • Events
      • Lectures for art lovers of all ages

225 W 2nd St, Davenport, IA 52801, Phone: 563-326-7804

2. Vander Veer Botanical Park

Vander Veer Botanical Park

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  • What is Vander Veer Botanical Park?
    • Vander Veer Botanical Park is a historic botanical garden in Davenport, Iowa, featuring century-old traditions and beautifully maintained gardens.
  • What is the Grand Allee?
    • The Grand Allee is a wide, scenic walkway lined by mature trees and blooming flower beds.
    • It is one of Davenport’s historic traditions.
  • Where does the Grand Allee path lead?
    • The path leads to the bubbling Stone Fountain, which features dancing water and ever-changing lights.
  • Is there a jogging track in the park?
    • Yes, an outer perimeter path provides about one mile of jogging track for those who want a bit more speed.
  • What gardens can visitors explore?
    • Gardens first established in 1885 include:
      • The Municipal Rose Garden
      • The Hosta Glade
      • The Old World Gardens and Fountain
      • The Children’s Garden
      • Many more seasonal and themed gardens
  • What can visitors see in the Conservatory?
    • The Conservatory is a jewel of the park with a year-round display of fragrant blooms, including:
      • Spring: Azaleas, lilies, and daisies
      • Summer: Tropical flowers
      • Fall: Colors featured in the Chrysanthemum Festival
      • Winter: The Poinsettia Lights Display

215 W Central Park Ave, Davenport, IA 52803, Phone: 563-326-7818

3. Putnam Museum

Putnam Museum

© Putnam Museum

  • What is the Putnam Museum?
    • The Putnam Museum is a renowned museum of history and natural sciences located in Davenport, Iowa.
    • Established in 1867, the museum has been educating visitors about regional history, ethnology, anthropology, and natural science through permanent and visiting exhibits.
  • What can visitors see at the museum?
    • The museum holds 160,000 major artifacts and specimens.
    • Some of the most significant exhibits include:
      • Black Earth, Big River: A showcase of the past and present natural habitats of the Quad Cities.
      • The Hall of Mammals: A multi-sensory exhibit featuring Arctic polar bears, African zebras, and other mammals.
      • Photographs, interactive dioramas, and hands-on activities to engage visitors of all ages.
  • Does the museum have an exhibit about King Tut?
    • Yes, the museum features a faithful recreation of Egyptian King Tut and the famous treasures discovered in his tomb.
  • What educational programs does the museum offer?
    • The museum has excellent outreach and education programs in collaboration with:

1717 W 12th St, Davenport, IA 52804, Phone: 563-324-1933

Activities and Attractions for Couples:

4. Village of East Davenport

Village of East Davenport

© Village of East Davenport

  • What is the Village of East Davenport?
    • The Village of East Davenport is a historic entertainment and shopping district in Davenport, Iowa.
    • It was once a Civil War military and logging community and served as parade grounds for soldiers from Camp McClellan.
  • What makes the Village of East Davenport unique?
    • It is the oldest neighborhood in Davenport.
    • The Village is stretched along the Mississippi River in southeast Davenport.
    • It includes the popular Upper and Lower Lindsay Parks.
  • What can visitors do in the Village?
    • The area is full of galleries, pubs, restaurants, and boutiques.
    • Visitors can enjoy:
      • A pleasant stroll through the charming streets
      • Browsing unique shops for special gifts
      • Getting a massage
      • Booking a room in a quaint B&B
  • Are there events held in the Village?
    • Yes, the Village is a popular venue for local events and celebrations throughout the year.
  • Is the Village of East Davenport historically significant?
    • Yes, the Village is registered on the National Register of Historic Places.

E. River Dr. (HW 67) and Mound St., Davenport, IA 52803, Phone: 563-324-9224

5. Davenport Skybridge

Davenport Skybridge

© Davenport Skybridge

  • What is the Davenport Skybridge?
    • The Davenport Skybridge is a pedestrian bridge that spans River Drive (Highway 67) in downtown Davenport.
  • What is the practical purpose of the Skybridge?
    • It provides a safe way to cross River Drive for pedestrians heading to the Riverboat or LeClaire Park.
  • What makes the Skybridge special at night?
    • At night, the Skybridge transforms into a colorful light show.
    • The entire span is covered with LED lights that create a constantly changing kaleidoscope of bright colors.
    • The illumination creates a magical and vibrant atmosphere.
  • What are the dimensions of the bridge?
    • The Davenport Skybridge is 575 feet long and 50 feet tall.
  • Does the Skybridge offer a scenic view?
    • Yes, at the river-facing end, there is an observation deck with a spectacular view of:
      • Centennial Bridge
      • Mississippi River
      • Davenport Levee
  • Is the Davenport Skybridge a local landmark?
    • Yes, it is considered one of the most striking landmarks in Davenport.

What to do if you are traveling with kids:

6. Chocolate Manor

Chocolate Manor

© Chocolate Manor

  • What is Chocolate Manor?
    • Chocolate Manor is a luxurious chocolate shop in downtown Davenport, known for its wide variety of handmade chocolates.
  • What types of sweets does Chocolate Manor offer?
    • The store offers over 100 different kinds of treats, including:
      • Chocolates
      • Truffles
      • Toffees
      • Cupcakes
      • Cookies
      • Chocolate-covered potato chips
  • Where are the chocolates made?
    • Everything is made on-site, ensuring freshness and high quality.
    • The store is filled with the divine aroma of freshly made chocolate.
  • What ingredients does Chocolate Manor use?
    • They use only the highest quality ingredients.
    • Their chocolates are made from premium Belgian and French chocolates.
  • Does Chocolate Manor accept custom orders?
    • Yes, they accept custom orders, including unique and out-of-the-ordinary requests.
    • Some past custom creations include:
      • An eight-foot-tall chocolate menorah for an Orthodox Jewish rabbi
      • 300 chocolate toothbrushes for a dentist’s wedding
      • Life-sized chocolate shoes
      • 350 chocolate tulips for a wedding
    • If you can imagine it, they can make it—and it will be delicious!

110 E 2nd St, Davenport, IA 52801, Phone: 563-355-6600

7. Lagomarcino's Confectionary

Lagomarcino's Confectionary

© Lagomarcino's Confectionary

  • What is Lagomarcino's Confectionary?
    • Lagomarcino's Confectionary is a classic ice cream parlor, soda fountain, chocolate shop, and candy store all in one.
    • Visiting the shop feels like stepping back in time, bringing back childhood memories of getting a treat with grandpa.
  • Where is Lagomarcino's Confectionary located?
    • The store in Davenport was once a pharmacy.
    • It was designed to resemble the original 1908 Lagomarcino’s in Moline, Illinois.
  • What is special about the store's interior?
    • The store features a shiny black walnut bar and stained glass lamps, creating a vintage and nostalgic feel.
    • The atmosphere is reminiscent of another era, filled with delightful smells and flavors that evoke cherished memories.
  • What are some must-try treats at Lagomarcino’s?
    • Customers love their famous Easter eggs.
    • Their fabulous hot fudge is a signature item and is served with homemade ice cream.

2132 E 11th St, Davenport, IA 52803, Phone: 563-324-6137

8. B.J. and Mabel Palmer Residence

B.J. and Mabel Palmer Residence

© B.J. and Mabel Palmer Residence

  • What is the B.J. and Mabel Palmer Residence?
    • The B.J. and Mabel Palmer Residence is a historic mansion located on the campus of Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa.
    • It has a special place in Davenport history due to its connection to the founding of chiropractic.
  • When was the mansion built, and who originally owned it?
    • The mansion was built in 1874 in the Second Empire style for Louis C. Dessaint, a local lumber mill owner.
  • What is its connection to B.J. Palmer?
    • B.J. Palmer, considered the father of chiropractic, purchased the mansion in 1912 for the School of Chiropractic.
    • The mansion also housed the radio station that became WOC.
  • What unique architectural features does the house have?
    • The house has an unusual wrap-around porch.
  • What kind of objects are in the Palmer Residence?
    • The mansion contains a strange collection of unrelated objects gathered by the Palmer family during their travels, including:
      • An Aeolian pipe organ
      • The trunk and branches of four oak trees
      • Wicker furniture from a Philippine prison
      • A humidor made from elephants' feet
      • A kangaroo from Australia
      • And much more
  • Is the house historically recognized?
    • Yes, it is registered on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • Can visitors tour the Palmer Residence?
    • Yes, the first floor of the house is open for tours.

808 Brady St, Davenport, IA 52803, Phone: 563-884-5714

9. Freight House Farmers Market

Freight House Farmers Market

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  • What is the Freight House Farmers Market?
    • The Freight House Farmers Market is a vibrant local market in downtown Davenport where visitors can buy fresh produce, meet local farmers and artisans, and enjoy a lively community atmosphere.
  • Where is the market located?
    • The market is located on the picturesque Mississippi Riverfront, next to the historic Freight House Building in downtown Davenport.
  • What products can you find at the market?
    • The market offers a wide variety of fresh and locally sourced goods, including:
      • Farm-fresh fruits and vegetables
      • Eggs, poultry, and meats
      • Cheeses, jams, and honey
      • Baked goods, salsas, and candies
      • Fresh flowers and handmade soaps
      • High-quality crafts and dog treats
      • And much more!
  • Does the market change throughout the year?
    • Yes, everything at the market is fresh and seasonal, so the selection changes based on the time of year.
  • When is the Freight House Farmers Market open?
    • The market is open year-round on:
      • Saturday
      • Sunday
      • Tuesday

Freight House Farmers Market, 421 W River Dr, Davenport, IA 52801, Phone: 563-322-6009

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