Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Davenport, IA
Davenport sits on the Mississippi River with access to the Fig Art Museum, Living History Farm, and the Quad Cities riverfront.
The Figge Art Museum and the Channel of the Mississippi offer art and river recreation.
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or browse all12 destinations near Davenport
Crapo Park
Burlington, IA 52601
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.9k+ visitors) · 1 hr 35 min from Davenport · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Horseshoe Bluff Lookout
Dubuque, IA 52003
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.8 stars) · 1 hr 15 min from Davenport · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Heritage Canyon
Fulton, IL 61252
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 54 min from Davenport · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
Dubuque, IA 52001
Why this destination?
Recommended because: highly rated (4.8 by 1.4k+ visitors) · 1 hr 26 min from Davenport
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Madison, WI 53704
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 4.9k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 46 min from Davenport · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Dubuque, IA 52001
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Family destination · highly rated (4.7 by 5.0k+ visitors) · 1 hr 15 min from Davenport · fits $20 - $60 budget
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Eagle Point Park
2601 Shiras Ave, Dubuque
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.2k+ visitors) · 1 hr 20 min from Davenport · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Dickeyville Grotto & Shrines
Dickeyville, WI 53808
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr 25 min from Davenport · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Cave of the Mounds
Blue Mounds, WI 53517
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 5.0k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 12 min from Davenport · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Stephens’ Falls
Dodgeville, WI 53533
Why this destination?
Recommended because: well rated (4.7 stars) · 2 hrs 7 min from Davenport
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Mississippi Riverwalk
Dubuque, IA 52001
Why this destination?
Recommended because: highly rated (4.7 by 0.1k+ visitors) · 1 hr 15 min from Davenport
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Lovers' Leap
Hannibal, MO 63401
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.8k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 49 min from Davenport · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Davenport, IA?
The best day trips from Davenport include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Davenport?
Most great day trips from Davenport are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Davenport?
Many of the best day trips near Davenport are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Davenport?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Davenport, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Davenport?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Davenport make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
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