Skip to main content

Search the middle of everything...

Shedd Aquarium

Locks & Dam 15

328 Rodman Ave, Rock Island, IL 61201

Bird & Eagle Watching

The visitor center welcomes over 30,000 people annually and is handicap accessible. In addition to providing lock and dam tours during the summer months, rangers also offer a wide range of programs to the local community.

The Mississippi River Visitor Center is located on the Rock Island Arsenal in Rock Island, Illinois at Locks & Dam 15, overlooking the Upper Mississippi River. Since the early 1800's the Corps of Engineers has been instrumental in making the river navigable for both commercial and recreational vessels. From January to March each year visitors come from all around to see the many Bald Eagles that flock to the locks and dams on the Mississippi during the winter months to feed. In early spring the river opens to commercial navigation. From April through mid December visitors from around the world come to watch boats pass through the locks.

What's happening nearby...

Backwater Gamblers Water Ski Show

Sep 02 @ 6:30PM

The Backwater Gamblers perform free water ski shows every Sunday and Wednesday at 6:30 pm on the Rock River in Rock Island, Illinois. The shows begin…

Read more about Backwater Gamblers Water Ski Show

Soul of the City

Franklin Field •  Sep 05 @ 10AM

Soul of the City is an outdoor community block party that celebrates culture, diversity, strong neighborhoods, and families.

Read more about Soul of the City

Arsenal Oktoberfest

Quarters One - Rock Island Arsenal •  Sep 18 @ 4PM

This family-friendly event is open to the public and packed with German-inspired fun, food, music, and activities for all ages.

Read more about Arsenal Oktoberfest

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.