Sylvan Island: Nature Reclaimed
Explore the trails of a reclaimed industrial site, where nature and history intertwine on this unique Mississippi River island.
Sylvan Island in Moline, Illinois, is a unique 37-acre park reborn from a former industrial site. Accessible by a pedestrian bridge, it offers trails through the remnants of the Republic Steel mill, blending history with natural beauty.
A brief summary to Sylvan Island
- 1st Ave & 2nd Street, Moline, IL, 61265, US
- +1309-524-2424
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the island is home to a variety of bird species.
- Check the trail conditions before mountain biking, especially after rain.
- Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the uneven terrain and industrial remnants.
- Visit during the week for a quieter experience, as the island can get busy on weekends.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Sylvan Gateway Park parking lot at 101 1st Avenue, Moline, walk north towards the river. The pedestrian bridge to Sylvan Island is directly accessible from the park. There are no fees to access the island or the bridge.
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Public Transport
Several bus routes serve the area near Sylvan Gateway Park. From the nearest bus stop, walk north towards 1st Avenue and the river. Follow 1st Avenue east to Sylvan Gateway Park and the pedestrian bridge to the island. Bus fares typically cost around $1 - $2.
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Driving
From River Drive, turn north onto 1st Street, then east onto 1st Avenue. Sylvan Gateway Park is on the left, providing direct access to the pedestrian bridge. Parking is free in the Sylvan Gateway Park lot.
Discover more about Sylvan Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Deere-Wiman House
1.5 km
Explore the legacy of the Deere family at this beautifully preserved Victorian home in Moline, Illinois. A step back into the 19th century!
Deere-Wiman Carriage House
1.6 km
Explore Victorian life and architectural innovation at the Deere-Wiman Carriage House, part of the historic Deere-Wiman House estate in Moline, Illinois.
Rock Island County Historical Society
1.6 km
Explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Moline at the Rock Island County Historical Society, your gateway to the past.
Prospect Park Historic District
2.3 km
Explore the enchanting Prospect Park Historic District in Davenport, Iowa, a stunning showcase of architectural beauty and rich history waiting to be discovered.
Fort Armstrong Historic Site
2.5 km
Discover military history and scenic beauty at Fort Armstrong Historic Site on the Mississippi River in Rock Island, Illinois.
Walker Adams House
2.5 km
Discover the captivating history of the Walker Adams House in Davenport, Iowa, a beautifully preserved 19th-century landmark showcasing exquisite architecture.
The Renwick Mansion
2.7 km
Explore the elegance of The Renwick Mansion, a historic event venue in Davenport, offering stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings for your special occasions.
Great River Brewery
3.0 km
Discover the art of craft brewing and savor delectable dishes at Great River Brewery in the heart of Davenport, Iowa.
Bootleg Hill Honey Meads
3.0 km
Discover the art of mead-making at Bootleg Hill Honey Meads, where local flavors and craftsmanship create an unforgettable tasting experience in Davenport, IA.
Raccoon Motel
3.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Davenport at Raccoon Motel, a top live music bar with a welcoming atmosphere and great drinks.
Mississippi River Distilling Company
3.0 km
Discover the heart of craft distillation at Mississippi River Distilling Company, where local ingredients meet artisanal spirits in a vibrant setting.
Trash Can Annie | Vintage, Styling & Photography
3.0 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and a creative photography backdrop at Trash Can Annie in Downtown Davenport, the ultimate destination for style enthusiasts.
Armored Gardens
3.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu at Armored Gardens, a top restaurant and bar in Downtown Davenport, Iowa.
Stompbox Brewing
3.1 km
Experience the vibrant craft beer scene at Stompbox Brewing in Downtown Davenport, where every sip tells a story.
Broadway National Historic District
3.1 km
Discover the Broadway National Historic District, where Victorian elegance meets modern charm in Rock Island, Illinois. A must-visit for history enthusiasts!
Unmissable attractions to see
Rock Island Arsenal Museum
1.1 km
Explore the rich military history at the Rock Island Arsenal Museum, showcasing artifacts and stories from the past in a captivating setting.
Quarters One
1.5 km
Discover the historic Quarters One in Rock Island, Illinois, where military history meets stunning architecture in a captivating museum experience.
Augustana's Fryxell Geology Museum
1.5 km
Explore the fascinating world of geology at Augustana's Fryxell Geology Museum, a treasure trove of earth's history located in Rock Island, Illinois.
Butterworth Center and Deere-Wiman House
1.5 km
Discover the historical treasures and serene beauty of the Butterworth Center and Deere-Wiman House in Moline, Illinois, a must-visit for culture lovers.
Stephens Park
1.5 km
Explore the enchanting beauty and recreational offerings of Stephens Park in Moline, the perfect escape for nature lovers and families alike.
John Deere Pavilion
1.7 km
Explore the John Deere Pavilion in Moline, Illinois, where agriculture meets innovation through interactive exhibits and historic displays.
Visit Quad Cities - Moline Visitor Center
1.8 km
Discover the Quad Cities from the Moline Visitor Center, your go-to resource for attractions, dining, and local culture.
Colonel Davenport Historical House
1.9 km
Explore the Colonel Davenport Historical House, a captivating glimpse into 19th-century life on the banks of the Mississippi River.
Lindsay Park
2.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and vibrant art of Lindsay Park in East Davenport, an ideal destination for relaxation and outdoor fun along the Mississippi River.
Leach Park
2.0 km
Discover the natural beauty and recreational opportunities at Leach Park in Bettendorf, Iowa, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
The Oculus
2.2 km
Discover the architectural wonder of The Oculus in Bettendorf, Iowa, where modern design meets cultural vibrancy and artistic expression.
QCCA Expo Center
2.2 km
Explore the vibrant QCCA Expo Center in Rock Island, Illinois, home to exciting events, exhibitions, and local culture at its finest.
Quad City Botanical Center
2.3 km
Explore the Quad City Botanical Center: an enchanting oasis of beauty and tranquility in Rock Island, Illinois, featuring diverse plants and educational programs.
Mississippi Spoon Gallery
2.5 km
Explore the unique Mississippi Spoon Gallery in Davenport, Iowa, dedicated to the art of spoon-making and creativity, perfect for art lovers and families.
Government Bridge
2.7 km
Discover the Government Bridge in Iowa, a historic engineering marvel offering stunning views of the Mississippi River and unforgettable experiences.
Essential places to dine
The Half Nelson
3.0 km
Discover culinary excellence at The Half Nelson in Downtown Davenport – where innovative dishes meet local flavors in a vibrant setting.
Bix Bistro
3.1 km
Discover the culinary artistry at Bix Bistro in Downtown Davenport—where exquisite flavors meet welcoming ambiance.
Zeke's Island Cafe
3.2 km
Discover Zeke's Island Cafe in Bettendorf: A family-friendly haven serving unique island-inspired dishes and refreshing drinks.
Duck City Bistro
3.2 km
Experience culinary excellence at Duck City Bistro in Downtown Davenport – where local flavors meet modern elegance.
RAW
3.3 km
Explore RAW in Davenport: A Unique Raw Food Restaurant Offering Fresh Flavors & Creative Dishes for Health Enthusiasts.
Cavort
3.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Cavort, Davenport's premier restaurant and cocktail bar in downtown.
The Phoenix Restaurant & Martini Bar
3.3 km
Discover the blend of American and Mediterranean cuisine at The Phoenix Restaurant & Martini Bar in Downtown Davenport - where flavor meets elegance.
The Lemonade Stand Restaurant
3.3 km
Experience delightful comfort food in Downtown Davenport at The Lemonade Stand Restaurant - where every meal feels like home.
Boozie's Bar & Grill
3.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Boozie's Bar & Grill in Downtown Davenport - where delicious food meets a welcoming atmosphere.
The Breakroom
3.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and unique flavors at The Breakroom in Downtown Davenport - a must-visit restaurant and bar.
Miss Phay Cafe
3.4 km
Experience authentic Asian flavors at Miss Phay Cafe in Davenport – where culinary tradition meets modern flair.
Me & Billy
3.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and eclectic menu at Me & Billy, a top-notch restaurant and bar in Downtown Davenport.
Taste of Ethiopia
3.5 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian flavors at Taste of Ethiopia in Downtown Davenport—where every meal tells a story.
Mantra Indian Cuisine & Spirits
3.5 km
Discover authentic Indian flavors at Mantra Indian Cuisine & Spirits in Downtown Davenport - a culinary journey you won't forget.
Mac's Tavern
3.6 km
Discover Mac's Tavern: A local gem in Davenport offering delicious food and drinks with a friendly atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rocket Resale
2.1 km
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Mint Green Boutique
2.1 km
Explore Mint Green Boutique, Davenport's ultimate destination for unique clothing and accessories in a charming local setting.
Mezzanine Boutique
2.2 km
Explore unique women's fashion at Mezzanine Boutique in East Davenport, where style meets elegance in a cozy shopping atmosphere.
Wind Dancer Boutique
2.2 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at Wind Dancer Boutique in East Davenport, where local craftsmanship meets stylish elegance.
Isabel Bloom
2.6 km
Explore Isabel Bloom in Davenport, Iowa, for unique, handcrafted gifts that capture the essence of local artistry and creativity.
Theo & Co.
3.1 km
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838 Boutique
3.2 km
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Skeleton Key Art and Antiques
3.3 km
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Felicia's Boutique
3.4 km
Explore Felicia's Boutique in Davenport for unique fashion and gifts that capture the spirit of local artistry and style.
Bliss Boutique
3.7 km
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Abernathy's
3.8 km
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D's Boutique
4.1 km
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563 Vintage
4.2 km
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Couture Collection and Co.
4.2 km
Discover the exquisite fashion and unique accessories at Couture Collection and Co., Davenport's premier boutique for stylish shoppers.
Antiques on Brady
4.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The 11th Street Precinct Bar & Grill
2.2 km
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M Lounge
3.3 km
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Cru Bottle Shoppe
3.3 km
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The Office Cocktail Bar & Lounge
3.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Office Cocktail Bar & Lounge in Downtown Davenport, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a welcoming atmosphere.
UP Skybar & Lounge
3.4 km
Discover the heights of nightlife in Davenport at UP Skybar & Lounge, featuring exquisite cocktails and breathtaking views over the Mississippi.
The Spot Bar and Lounge
3.5 km
Discover the charm of The Spot Bar and Lounge in Downtown Davenport for a delightful evening of drinks and good company.
Kilkenny's Pub
3.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill favorites at Kilkenny's Pub in Downtown Davenport, Iowa, perfect for food lovers and nightlife enthusiasts.
Bley's Tap
5.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Bley's Tap, Davenport's premier bar for craft beers, signature cocktails, and delicious food.
Geezer's Draft House
5.5 km
Discover the lively spirit of Davenport at Geezer's Draft House, where craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere await every visitor.
Circle Tap
5.5 km
Experience the vibrant local nightlife at Circle Tap, Davenport's favorite bar offering great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Stoeger's Bar
5.6 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and affordable drinks at Stoeger's Bar, a local favorite in Davenport, Iowa's nightlife scene.
The Pour House
5.7 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of The Pour House, a cocktail bar and dive club in Davenport, perfect for drinks, games, and good times.
The Ridge Social Drinkery
6.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Ridge Social Drinkery, where cocktails, sports, and delicious bites create the perfect outing in Davenport, IA.
R Bar
6.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at R Bar in Davenport, Iowa, offering unique cocktails and a friendly atmosphere for all cocktail enthusiasts.
Phil & Larry's Saloon
6.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Phil & Larry's Saloon, Davenport's favorite bar for great drinks and lively atmosphere.
