4 Places to Take an Earth Day Nature Walk in the QC

It's Earth Day, and the rain seems to have subsided. What a perfect time to get outside and appreciate Mother Nature at work. Whether you're in the mood for biking, hiking, checking out spring blooms or simply taking a stroll, we've got some great suggestions of places to check out today.

Quad City Botanical Center- 2525 4th Avenue, Rock Island

With hundreds of indoor and outdoor plants, an atrium housing tropical gardens, waterfalls and fish ponds, a butterfly garden, and children's garden with games and splash areas, the Botanical Center is an oasis amid the hustle and bustle of downtown Rock Island. Note: not all gardens are open at this time, but many areas open the first week of May.  It's still a great place to check out plant life on Earth Day.

Hours and Info:  Open April- October 31, 10am - 5pm Monday through Saturday (open late Tuesday night until 7pm) and 11am - 5pm Sunday. Admission is $6 for adults,  $4 for kids 6-15 and $2 for kids 2-5. Children under 2 are free.

Vanderveer Botanical Park - 215 West Central Park Ave, Davenport

Most Quad Citians are familiar with VanderVeer, but Earth Day is the perfect time to stop and appreciate its beauty. Take a stroll around the pond and fountains, check out the blooming tulips or the stop by the conservatory, which is currently showcasing spring flowers.

Hours and Info: The conservatory is open Tuesday-Sunday from 10 am-4 pm. The grounds are open year round. Conservatory admission is $1.

Crow Creek Park- 4800 N. Devil's Glen Road, Bettendorf.

Crow Creek has acres of land, and includes a dog park, multiple playgrounds, baseball, softball, and soccer fields, hiking trails, creek and a quarry. Grab your dog and head out for some exercise. If you don't have a dog, bring your kid. If you don't have a kid, that's no excuse to not get out and walk. :)

Hours and Info: Free and open year round.

Prospect Park- 30th Ave, Moline

Prospect Park might be less well known than some of the other area parks, but it's worth checking out if you're a nature lover. Home to the Quad City Music Guild, as well as miles of trails and a lake, Prospect has just the tranquility you're looking for at the end of the week.

Hours and info: Free and open year round.

Bonus:

Really anywhere you can walk with a view of the Mississippi is a great spot. We are so fortunate to live near one of the most majestic rivers in the world. Whatever you do today, make sure to stop and appreciate Mother Earth!