restaurants, bird watching near Augustana College

Question

Hi, there. I read about the Stony Creek Inn in Moline when looking for lodging, restaurants, and bird watching near Augustana College. Does anyone have a personal recommendation for a good place to eat near Augustana? Any suggestions of where to go to find birds? Thanks!

Answer

It's great that you're looking to explore the area around Augustana College! The Rock Island/Moline area has plenty to offer in terms of both food and bird watching, especially with its proximity to the Mississippi River and various natural areas.

Here are a few restaurant recommendations near Augustana College and in the surrounding area:

Lam's Vietnamese Restaurant – Located in Moline, this is a cozy spot for delicious and authentic Vietnamese dishes. It's a great place if you're in the mood for something flavorful and healthy.
Front Street Brewery – This downtown Moline brewery offers a great selection of local beers and hearty pub food. It’s a popular local spot and perfect for a casual meal or a relaxed drink.
Great Revivalist Brew Co. – Situated in Rock Island, this brewery offers craft beers with a laid-back vibe. They also have a great selection of food options, including sandwiches and small plates, making it a good option for lunch or dinner.
The Rock Island Boatworks – This waterfront restaurant offers beautiful views of the Mississippi River along with a menu featuring steaks, seafood, and American fare. It’s perfect for a scenic dinner after a day of exploring the area.
The Blue Cat Brewery – Another great brewery option in Moline, known for its local craft beers and casual food options. The cozy, rustic atmosphere makes it a great spot to unwind after a busy day.

As for bird watching, the Quad Cities area offers several excellent spots where you can observe a variety of bird species, especially near the Mississippi River. Here are some great bird-watching spots near Augustana College:

Black Hawk State Historic Site – Located just a few miles from Augustana College, this site has a variety of habitats that attract different bird species. The park offers a peaceful setting for bird watching and hiking trails, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
Mississippi Riverfront – The area along the river provides great opportunities to spot waterfowl, shorebirds, and other species. There are several parks along the river in both Moline and Rock Island where you can walk and watch birds.
Rock Island Conservation Area – Located a little north of the college, this area is home to a variety of habitats, including wetlands and woodlands, making it a great place for bird watching, especially during migration seasons.
Fulton County Conservation Area – A bit further out, this location is known for its excellent birding opportunities, especially if you're looking for marsh birds or migrating species.
Big Island State Recreation Area – Situated along the Mississippi River, this park provides bird-watching opportunities along its wetlands and wooded areas. It’s a great spot to catch sight of migrating waterfowl, songbirds, and other local species.

These areas are known for offering a peaceful, natural setting for bird watching and are relatively close to Augustana College. You may also want to check with local nature centers or the Augustana College biology department for specific birding events or further recommendations.

Hope this helps! Enjoy your visit to the Quad Cities and happy bird watching!