Quad City Gems!
Living in the Quad Cities, every one of us has heard, “Ugh, I can’t wait to get out of Iowa. There’s nothing to do here!” The most common solutions to this boredom are heading to the mall or movies. While those are fun, one can only window shop at the same stores in the mall so many times. Contrary to popular belief, there are at least a few other fun places to visit here in the QC. So, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite places here. Hopefully you can check them out next time you're looking for something to do!
Contrary to popular belief, there are at least a few fun places to visit here in the QC.
DAV (Disabled American Veteran)
If you like shopping, especially thrifting, the DAV is the store for you. It’s hard to find cute clothes with a high school paycheck, but by thrifting you can find a ton of unique items for cheap prices! While some thrift stores in the area have raised their prices since thrifting has become more popular in recent years, the DAV is still incredibly affordable. Additionally, Sundays are an additional 20% off! The store may be a little rough around the edges, but if you spend enough time looking you can almost always leave with an item you love! As a seasoned thrifter, I can tell you that the DAV is where it’s at.
Duck Creek Parkway
One of the Quad Cities greatest features is its large amount of green space, and the Duck Creek Parkway, or just “the bike path” as my family calls it, is the backbone of all this green space. It connects 10 parks throughout Davenport and Bettendorf, beginning at Emeis Park and Golf Course and ending at Devils Glen Park. Other parks include Northwest Park, Marquette Park, Junge Park, Garfield Park, Eastern Avenue Park and Duck Creek Park and Golf Course, Middle Park, and Veterans Memorial Park. These parks include many great features such as tennis courts, baseball fields, beautiful gardens, water features, and more. Even the parts of the trail that aren’t connected to the park have some beautiful nature. The path also encourages our community to stay active as it’s available for bikers, walkers, and runners.
Mantra
If you have never tried Mantra you are missing out. Indian food is delicious, and Mantra does it better than anyone. You may have heard of butter chicken and garlic naan, which, don’t get me wrong, are delicious, but Indian cuisine has so much more to offer than simply that. Mantra also has a large selection of vegetarian options for my fellow non-meat eaters out there. Prices are a great value for the amount of food you get; I’m always left with delicious leftovers. It’s located in downtown Davenport, so it’s in the heart of the Quad Cities!
Little Rock and Gem Shop
If you’re on the hunt for new jewelry, room decor, or simply want to look at some pretty rocks, I urge you to check out Little Rock and Gem Shop @ 3002 N Brady St, Davenport. The space is small, but it is put to good use. There is a large range of products whether it be jewelry, keychains, statues, or just the crystals themselves. I’m not the most knowledgeable when it comes to crystals and all the practices that go along with them. However, based on the large selection they have, I’m sure you would be able to find something to fit your needs if that’s your thing. In addition to the large variety of products they have, their prices also have a large range. It’s easy to find an affordable piece; however, they also have some pricier, higher-quality items.
Sunderbruch Park
I have been going to Sunderbruch Park ever since I was little and would say that it’s my favorite place. It consists of many trails suitable for walking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Trails vary in skill level, for beginners hikers there is a paved path spanning from one end of the park to the other. However, for more intense hikers/bikers there are definitely some more challenging trails. It has both wooded areas and prairie, one of the most endangered ecosystems in the world. In addition to its great trails, there is also an amazing American Ninja Warrior-esque playground! It may not be the easiest to play on, but it sure is entertaining! Last but not least, there are some pretty sweet dinosaur statues in the park.
Donuts and More
Another place I have visited since childhood is Donuts and More. As one can infer from the name, they offer primarily doughnuts. Let me tell you these donuts are good. They sell mostly cake doughnuts (the superior type of donut) but also have a small selection of raised doughnuts. Besides doughnuts, they offer a selection of breakfast sandwiches, toast, and bagels. They also have a variety of drinks including energy drinks, refreshers, various coffees, smoothies, shakes, and my personal favorite, chai lattes. The interior is also very cute and cozy. Donuts and More is the perfect place to spend a chill morning with friends and family.
