Discover the Best Day Trips around the Quad Cities
Looking for fun places near the Quad Cities? QC Day Trips is your local guide to unforgettable adventures across Iowa and Illinois — all within easy driving distance. Plan a spontaneous weekend, a family road trip, or a peaceful day away without going far
Wilson's Orchard & Farm – Iowa City
Wilson’s Orchard & Farm is a scenic seasonal destination just outside Iowa City offering U-pick apples, pumpkins, and strawberries, plus hayrack rides, live music events, cider tastings, and family-friendly fall festivals. The farm includes a ciderhouse, bakery, and sprawling hillside orchard — perfect for relaxing day trips and photo opportunities.
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Lacey-Keosauqua State Park
Lacey-Keosauqua State Park is one of Iowa’s largest and most scenic state parks, nestled along the Des Moines River in the rolling hills of Van Buren County. With miles of wooded trails, river bluffs, historic CCC-era structures, and a peaceful lake for swimming and fishing, it’s a top destination for hiking, camping, and nature exploration.
Hartman Reserve Nature Center
Hartman Reserve Nature Center is a 340-acre woodland surrounded by the cities of Waterloo and Cedar Falls. We have many habitats to explore including the largest tract of upland timber publicly managed in Black Hawk County. 100-year-old White, Red, and Bur Oaks can be found in the upland woodland. Our lowlands consists of flood-tolerable tree species including a rare grove of native Hawthorne trees and massive Cottonwood trees along our riparian areas.
Colony Acres
Colony Acres is a seasonal family farm and fall attraction located in North Liberty, Iowa. Known for its corn maze, pumpkin patch, hayrack rides, and activity zones for kids, the farm also offers food trucks, special events, and plenty of photo ops across its scenic rural grounds. A perfect destination for autumn fun, Colony Acres blends outdoor play with classic Iowa farm charm.