Ben Butterworth Parkway

If you are looking for a place where the majesty of nature meets urban comfort, Ben Butterworth Parkway is the perfect choice. This picturesque waterfront park, covering about 50 acres (20 hectares), stretches along the legendary Mississippi River in Moline, USA. It serves as more than just a recreational area; it is the true "green lungs" of the region, offering guests breathtaking panoramas of the water.

Essentially, it is a multi-functional public space categorized as a tourist_attraction, which consistently receives high marks from travelers for its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities. Thanks to its manicured paths and thoughtful landscaping, the park is considered one of the gems of Illinois, where you can fully experience the relaxed pace of life in the Midwest.

The park area was established as a memorial zone dedicated to Ben Butterworth. It harmoniously combines open lawns, shady groves, and modern recreational zones, making it a popular spot for both solo walks in search of inspiration and active family outings.

To plan your visit and inquire about event details at Ben Butterworth Parkway, you can use the official communication channels. The city administration carefully maintains the grounds and provides up-to-date information for tourists.

A visit to the park offers a variety of options for both active and contemplative recreation. First and foremost, it is worth taking a walk or bike ride along the winding paths that follow the shoreline. These paths offer magnificent views of the Mississippi River and the bridges connecting neighboring states, making it an ideal spot for photography, especially during the golden hour before sunset.

Nature lovers can enjoy birdwatching or simply relax on one of the many benches while taking in the fresh river breeze. For those who prefer an active lifestyle, the spacious green lawns are a great venue for yoga, jogging, or outdoor games. During the warmer months, barbecues are a common sight, and in the fall, the park transforms into a palette of vibrant colors as the foliage changes.

Reaching the park, located at 3000 River Dr, is quite simple. The most convenient way is by car, following River Drive. For the convenience of visitors, free parking is provided on-site, eliminating the hassle of searching for a spot.

For those who prefer public transport, the city is served by QC Transit buses, with stops located in the immediate vicinity of the waterfront. You can also easily reach the area by bicycle via the dedicated trails connecting various parts of the Quad Cities region, or walk from the city center—a stroll that takes about 20–30 minutes.

If you are arriving from Quad City International Airport (MLI), a taxi or rideshare will take only 15–20 minutes. Its prime location makes the park accessible for both travelers in transit and those staying in the region longer.

The history of this location is inextricably linked to the development of Moline within the Quad Cities metropolitan area. Ben Butterworth Parkway was named after a prominent local figure whose legacy was immortalized in this memorial space. The creation of the park was a significant milestone in a large-scale project to revitalize the waterfront of the great river.

The park was established to provide residents and tourists with free access to the Mississippi, which for centuries has served as the primary transportation and cultural artery of the region. The transformation of industrial riverbanks into a blooming garden reflects the American tradition of creating accessible riverfront parks, a concept rooted in the last century.

Today, the park stands as a living testament to how the urban environment can harmonize with natural heritage. While specific founding dates are rarely highlighted in brief guides, its significance to the local community as a symbol of hospitality and a link between generations remains constant.

When planning your itinerary, keep in mind that 1–2 hours is generally enough for a leisurely introduction to the main areas of Ben Butterworth Parkway. This gives you plenty of time to stroll along the waterfront, take memorable photos, and soak in the Mississippi atmosphere.

If you plan to have a family picnic on the lawn or complete a full bike ride along the entire parkway, we recommend setting aside about 3 hours. The park invites long stays, and many visitors prefer to spend an entire morning or evening here watching the boats pass by on the river.

The park is open to visitors daily, allowing you to enjoy a stroll at sunrise or under the starlit sky. The operating hours remain consistent throughout the week: from 06:00 to 23:00.

This flexible schedule makes Ben Butterworth Parkway a convenient destination at any time, whether for an early morning run or a peaceful late-night walk after dinner in the city.

Exploring the park's surroundings will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of Illinois and discover other interesting corners of the region. Its prime location along the river means that many memorial sites, cozy establishments, and outdoor recreation areas are concentrated nearby.

Below are some interesting locations that can be reached quickly from Ben Butterworth Parkway: