Bundle up for a whimsical getaway to Andalusia, Illinois, where visitors can snuggle up in this quaint town or explore the snowy landscapes full of activities with these things to do in Rock Island County. Winter sports, holiday lights, hockey games and artisanal markets abound for an ideal itinerary.
“Visitors can expect a welcoming, no-frills experience with plenty of options to stay active or simply enjoy the season with local flavor,” says Lindsey Row, Visit Quad Cities director of public relations and communications. “Whether it’s gliding down a slope, walking through a light display or grabbing hot cocoa after seeing Santa, it’s all easy to enjoy and feel part of.”
To help plan your trip and discover even more to do in Rock Island County, visit the rockislandcountyil.gov/422/visitors.More Travel Inspiration
Staying in this riverfront town also provides visitors easy access to the surrounding areas in Rock Island County, just a short, scenic drive away.
“Rock Island County offers a strong mix of outdoor activity and local holiday events that showcase the area’s community spirit and riverfront charm,” Row says.
The endearing wonderland destinations sprinkled along the Mississippi River are the perfect, cozy places to visit this winter. So, cure the cabin fever and enjoy a magical winter getaway in Rock Island County.
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1. Snowy Slopes
Snowstar Winter Sports Park delivers fantastic fun for everyone during the cold season. Glide down the slopes at this iconic destination with 15 lanes for skiing and snowboarding open for daytime and nighttime recreation. Also enjoy tubing lanes, terrain features and zip line tours for all types of skill levels.
2. Twinkling Winter Lights
The Quad City Botanical Center glows during its Winter Lights, showcasing thousands of lights for the holiday season late November through early January. Walk through the gardens with a warm beverage while trying to spot scavenger hunt items along the way, and be sure to see the dancing light show as well. Plus, enjoy tasty treats with Lights & Flights events, offering beer samples, artisan pizza tasters and live music.
3. Day Trip to Port Byron
North of Andalusia is Port Byron, nestled along the Mississippi River. This historic town hosts an annual Christmas Walk featuring music and entertainment along Main Street. Be sure to stop by for the perfect photo op at Port Byron’s famous Will B. Rolling Statue, a 30-foot man on a penny-farthing bicycle. October just saw participants gather at the statue for a six-day bike tour to Sparta, Wisconsin.
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4. Frosty Outdoor Adventures
The snowy outdoors is calling, so strap on some snowshoes to explore the forests and wide-open land. Loud Thunder Forest Preserve and Martin Conservation Area both offer snowshoeing trails in winter months, ideal for getting out of the house and into a refreshing adventure. An extra jacket or two may be necessary, but seeing the beauty of nature crystallized in the cold season is worth bundling up for.
For the even more daring souls, brave the elements on the partially frozen Mississippi River, which can be accessed at the Andalusia Slough Recreation Area. There are still fishing opportunities out on the chilly water. Other winter activities include bundling up for a picnic or relaxing under the shelters to admire the picturesque snowy landscapes.
5. Hockey Nights
If temperatures drop too low to venture outdoors, catch the Quad City Storm hockey team at one of their home games, promising an action-packed night out at the Vibrant Arena at The MARK. The whole family can enjoy cheering on the players and hunkering down to watch the Quad City Storm take the ice.
6. History for the Holidays
Explore local history with museums welcoming visitors to step back in time. The Rock Island Historical Society museums give visitors a look at houses and artifacts from the 1800s. The Atkinson-Peek House has four floors full of period furniture and original furnishings. And the Carriage House stores antique farming tools along with the Clothes Loft on the second story, a large collection of textile items spanning from the 1780s to the 1970s. The Hampton Historical Society preserves and presents the history of Hampton for visitors at the Brettun & Black Museum.
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7. Festive Fun in Moline
The traditional kickoff to the holiday season happens in downtown Moline over the course of two days in November. Enjoy walking through the festivities downtown offering an array of family activities. Or take a trolley ride through the lively sights and sounds of the holiday season. Activities include live music, ice sculpting, appearances by Santa and the Grinch, and holiday promotions at the downtown businesses.
8. Leave With a Souvenir
A great place to find a souvenir to take home from the trip is at Skeleton Key Art and Antiques. This historic building features more than 100 vendors showcasing a collection of art, antiques, crafts, gifts and more. Find the perfect piece of craftsmanship from Rock Island at this unique venue.
9. Warm Up at Local Spots
Visitors looking for refreshments have local favorites in Andalusia, but they can also take a quick drive into the Quad Cities. A popular spot called Ducky’s Lagoon Bar & Grill has plenty of hot bites to keep patrons warm while admiring the river views. There is an ice cream shop, Shivers & Shakes, in case anyone has a sweet craving. And Sergeant Major’s is a small-town bar and grill with outdoor and indoor seating.
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