Plan a Family Vacation in Moline With These 3 Activities

May 15, 2018 eweekendbreaks 0 Guides, holidays, travel guide,

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With tons of activities for kids and adults alike, Moline is the perfect place for your next family vacation. Whether you love to explore the outdoors, get some culture, or explore the city on your own, you’re sure to find something that the entire family can enjoy. If you’re still setting an itinerary, check out a few of these family-friendly attractions and destinations throughout Moline.

Niabi Zoo

Niabi Zoo

Image via Flickr by Lotzman Katzman

Opened in 1957, Niabi Zoo is one of the area’s oldest and most exciting destinations. It’s home to 140 different species and a total of 600 animals from across the globe, spread out over 40 acres and nine unique sections. The most recent addition is the Passport to Africa exhibit. This section allows guests to see reticulated giraffes, lions, and zebras in beautiful grounds that imitate the animals’ natural habitat. Other areas focus on the wildlife of Australia, Asia, and the local region.

Zoo season lasts from mid-April to the end of October with shorter hours beginning after Labor Day, so check the website to verify times. From opening day until Labor Day, Niabi Zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week. Tickets are $9 for adults, $8 for seniors (62+), $6.50 for children ages 3 to 12, and free for kids 2 and under. You can find the zoo at 13010 Niabi Zoo Road in Coal Valley, just south of Moline.

John Deere Pavilion

Located in the heart of Moline at 1400 River Drive, John Deere Pavilion is a must-visit for families, even if you aren’t overly interested in tractors or agriculture. Built in 1997, the pavilion was part of a massive project to revitalize downtown Moline, and it quickly became a successful tourist attraction, drawing over 200,000 visitors per year.

The museum embraces a hands-on approach for kids and adults, allowing you to climb into the cab of a combine, learn how the machines operate, and take small guided tours. The Discovery Zone is a kid favorite, offering eight learning areas with interactive features.

The best part of John Deere Pavilion is that it’s free, providing a stellar vacation idea for families on a budget. The pavilion is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. Book a hotel in downtown Moline to take full advantage of this attraction and enjoy the proximity to the city’s best dining and shopping.

Channel Cat Water Taxi

From Memorial Day to September, the weather is phenomenal in Moline. To take full advantage of the sunshine and warm temperatures, take a ride on the Channel Cat Water Taxi. This open-air boat speeds you across the Mississippi River on your way to four stops, while also providing a beautiful view of the surrounding area. You may have taken a taxi before, but never one like this. Prices are $8 for adults and $4 for children. Tickets are good for the entire day with unlimited rides from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m on weekdays.

From exotic animals to tractors to boat rides, Moline has all the ingredients for a memorable family vacation. Start planning your trip today.