Quad City Botanical Center - Rock Island, Illinois

Danelle M.

This is a nice little place with lots of plants to look at. I went with my adult daughter and we enjoyed the inside and outside areas. I think " in my opinion" the best time to go with smaller children is during the Christmas lights although they do have a small area for children and a train that runs in the summer. All and all we enjoyed our visit and for plant lovers it's a good place to explore.

Micah H.

Indulge in the breathtaking beauty of nature at the most magnificent botanical gardens in the Quad Cities area! This place is a true haven of wonder, with a plethora of indoor and outdoor exhibits that are bound to leave you impressed.

Step into a world of tranquility at their indoor waterfall area, a serene paradise adorned with vibrant koi fish and lush tropical plants. Lose yourself in the peaceful ambiance and let your mind wander to a place of serenity.

The outdoor area is a treasure trove of adventure and enchantment, with a fairy garden that boasts a charming child-sized cabin, an inviting play area, and a water feature that is home to a colossal stone alligator. You can explore the vast expanse of the grounds and marvel at the stunning trees that tower above you, each one a magnificent work of art.

The greenhouse is a true delight. Simply stepping inside is like entering a wonderland of exotic and tropical plants. You'll be captivated by the spectacular array of pitcher plants, flycatchers, and an extensive collection of cacti and succulents. Whether you're seeking a family outing or a stroll with your loved one, this place has it all.

And if you're a plant lover, the gift shop is a must-visit destination, offering a diverse range of plants for sale. We took home a small Jade plant as a keepsake for just $3! So, if you crave the beauty of nature and want to experience something truly remarkable, this is the place to be.

Secondhand S.

Lovely Spot for a Relaxing Stroll

The QC Botanical Center is a peaceful, charming spot—perfect for a quiet walk, photo ops, or just enjoying nature indoors. The tropical garden area is beautiful year-round, with koi ponds, waterfalls, and lots of lush greenery. It’s not a huge facility, but it’s well-kept and thoughtfully laid out.

It’s a great place to bring kids for a short visit or to enjoy a little break from the weather. They also host events and workshops, which is a nice community touch. Admission is affordable, and the gift shop has some cute items if you’re looking for something plant-related to take home.

If you’re looking for a quick nature fix in the Quad Cities, this is a sweet little gem to check out.

Holly P.

Magical destination for All ages, from pushing a grandchild’s stroller, to pushing your dad in wheelchair. Everyone loves it! Best new holiday tradition. Gets better every year!

A S.

It was too cold and windy to see most of outside but inside was beautiful. Some very unique plants, a scavenger hunt for kids and I even got a free plant clipping to take home. We also got to experience the Voodoo lily in bloom which was neat to see.

Hike A. H. A.

We came late in the season so the Children's garden was shut down. We did however enjoy our time there.

Alexi C.

Fun. Cool things there, the trains are nice. I played Connect 4 and won. Take the L, 7 year old.

Michael T.

Small but mighty. I don't frequent these sorts of places, and I would label myself a plants guy. But this place was wonderful. It's packed full of interesting plants to discover. It also has a very engaging kids area. I highly recommend spending at least one hour here.