Quincy is also known as the ‘Gem City.’ It wouldn’t be named after precious stones if there was nothing worthwhile to see. This city is located on the banks of the sprawling Mississippi river, and it has everything you need for a banging holiday.
Imagine flowery parks worthy of fairytales, grand aristocratic century-old buildings, rolling green hills, and a sparkling river. Quincy, IL, will leave you shell-shocked! You’ll find a boatload of things to do in Quincy, so hop on, and let’s ride through this Mississippi diamond. It’ll be an unforgettable treat.
After reading the description above, you’re probably scrambling for a ticket, and why not? Seeing the Mississippi in person sounds fantastic. With loads of vacation spots, you want to make sure you have a list of the best things to do in Quincy.
Like any other vacation spot, tourists with some foreknowledge always have the upper hand. Remember, it’s better to know where you’re going before starting any journey.
Here is a guide to the 15 Best Things to do In Quincy, Illinois
1. Visit the Villa Kathrine
The Villa Kathrine is the first of many grand, aristocratic buildings. This reconstructed Moroccan-style mansion is more dreamy than you can imagine and has a spooky legend to go with it!
Built by George Behrensmeyer, an architect for a wealthy Quincy man, W. George Metz, the stunning home features a glossy reflecting pool, a sprawling courtyard, and a harem. It is a heavenly slice of classic Mediterranean architecture that sits on a 4-acre bluff overlooking the Mississippi.
Gorgeous Islamic paintings and elegant furniture casually lounge around this home, adding to the bougie, sophisticated ambiance. You need to make an appointment to get a tour; trust me, you won’t regret it.
Address: 532 Gardner Expy, Quincy, IL 62301, United States
2. Become an Art Connoisseur at the Quincy Art Center
Since its opening in 1923, Quincy’s Art Center has been much more than an Art Museum. Even if you’re not so into art, this will be a game-changer for you.
So why is visiting this place one of the best things to do in Quincy, IL? For one, it’s free; It sounds unbelievable for an art gallery. You can view over 400 entrancing artworks, learn, and even teach art!
Not only does this Art Center house paintings, but you can also get ceramic and printmaking lessons in addition to other branches of art. Age doesn’t matter; Quincy Art Center has something for everyone. Bonus point – it was started by a group of women.
Address: 1515 Jersey St, Quincy, IL 62301, United States
3. Take a Tour of John Wood Mansion
First Moroccan, now we have Greek revival architecture. With a staggering 14 rooms, imposing Doric columns, and authentic 19th-century furnishing, this is no ordinary picket-fence home.
Like almost everything in Quincy, this mansion is historically significant, as it once housed John Woods, the 12th governor of Illinois, and his family. Of course, considering it’s such a show-stopper, it’s no surprise that this beautiful home has bagged numerous awards.
It was named among Illinois’ 150 most notable architectural structures in 2007. It was also numbered as one of Illinois’ 200 great places by the Institute of Architects Illinois.
Are you an aspiring architect or building design enthusiast? Then, this should be high on your list of things to do in Quincy; you’ll learn something here.
Address: 425 S 12th St, Quincy, IL 62301, United States
4. Have a Historical Tour of Quincy Museum
History is essential to Quincy, so it’s no surprise we have another historical building. Once owned by millionaire Richard F. Newcomb, this ornate building houses one of Quincy’s most active recreational centers.
If you read ‘Museum’ and yawned, know that this isn’t some stuffy house for relics. Everything is available here, from tours to history and even lessons on wildlife!
Moreover, this Museum is kid-friendly. There are fun, hands-on classes for kids of all ages, from growing up in the 1890s to Native Americans and dinosaurs! How cool is that?
Address: 1601 Maine St, Quincy, IL 62301, United States
5. Explore Quinsippi Island
This beautiful island is home to 130 acres of rich green vegetation, exotic wildlife, and clear water. It is a natural island, and it’s as jaw-dropping as it sounds!
Quinsippi Island, surrounded by Quincy Bay, Broad Lake, and the giant Mississippi, has been an active tourist center since the late sixties and seventies. Impressively, it continues to be as busy as ever.
But that’s not all there is to see. You can also visit boat dockings, marinas, and shelter houses with playgrounds that’ll awaken the adventurous child in you.
Additionally, the soaring eagles in the Log Cabin Village make for an unforgettable experience.
Address: 1100 Quinsippi Island Road, Quincy, IL 62301, USA
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6. Take a Tour of the All Wars Museum
Quincy documents its legendary wars in the All Wars Museum. Located on the Illinois Veterans Home grounds, this Museum pays tribute to America’s military engagements.
The Museum will surely transport you to the time of the Revolutionary War, as it vividly displays over 5000 relics from this time.
Address: 1707 N 12th St, Quincy, IL 62301, United States
7. Picnic at Ben Bumbry Riverview Park
Every attraction in Quincy seems to have something in common – the Mississippi. But where’s the best place to see the river? Any Quincy resident will tell you it’s Ben Bumbry Riverview Park, no questions.
Located on 23 acres of sweeping, tumbling land in Quincy’s northside, this park presents a breathtaking view of the river. Rock-lined roadways, playgrounds, and an imposing statue of George Rogers-Clark make up the park.
Are you traveling with a spouse or significant other? This park is perfect for date night. Picnic tables and grills under a starry sky with the sparkling river in the distance will have you falling back in love.
Address: 1001 N. 2nd Street, Quincy, IL 62301, United States
8. See a show at Quincy Community Theatre
Like the Art Center and Museum, Quincy’s theatre doesn’t just show live performances but also provides top-notch entertainment. The state-of-the-art 498-seat auditorium and elaborate facilities only contribute to the satisfaction you’re bound to get when you catch a show.
No unimpressive plays here, classics like Legally Blonde will change your theatre experience forever. Meanwhile, children can also get acting lessons here.
As if that isn’t enough, there’s an orchestra to fill your ears with a blissful harmonious melody. One ticket, one show, and you’ll never want to leave.
Address: Ste. 300 Civic Center Plaza Ste. #118, Quincy, IL 62301, United States
9. Stock Up on Groceries at Terripin Farms
Generational businesses like this fourth-generation farm are always a part of historical towns. Leave the canned food and preservative-filled groceries behind, and say hello to fresh fruits and veggies.
Sitting on 12 acres of fertile soil, Terripin Farms produces leafy greens, bright orange pumpkins, juicy fruits, and flowers. So, wander around the tidy plants and flower beds, take in the scenery, and buy yourself a thing or two.
Address: 3729 N 36th St, Quincy, IL 62305, United States
10. Play at Scotties Fun Spot
No matter how old you are, you need to make time to play, especially if you’re a parent with kids. Specially tailored for families and children, playing at this amusement park is a must on the list of things to do in Quincy, IL.
The park has fun activities, like bumper cars, roller skating, ball-o-city, bowling, go-karts, and more! Even better, it’s all affordable, so what’s stopping you from going?
An arcade is excellent for hanging out with a group of friends, and none of the activity packages will hurt your savings. Moreover, there are strict conduct rules to make sure your kids can have fun without you worrying about their safety.
Address: 8000 Broadway St, Quincy, IL 62305, United States
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11. Hike on the Bill Klingner Trail
During vacations, you need to keep in shape, and Quincy has just the place for that. Snuggled between Quincy’s many parks and North 24th Street, this grassy trail is perfect when you want quality time with Mother Nature.
Don’t worry about bumps in the road; the trail is asphalt-covered, so you can walk, run, and even bike comfortably. Also, let your mind wander while you hike, as no cars are allowed here.
From dawn to dusk, feast your eyes on rolling hills and clear blue sky, listen to singing birds, and let your worries float away. Hiking in this paradise is the best possible therapy, so add it to your list of things to do in Quincy.
Address: 2533 N 18th St, Quincy, IL 62305, United States
12. Go for a Swim at Indian Mounds Park
Yes, another park! And this one is home to one more rich piece of Quincy’s history – The Indian Mounds Pool, the town’s first public swimming pool.
Besides water, this pool has a lot more excitement, including waterslides, toys, and a diving board. You won’t believe it, but there’s also a heated pool, so get yourself some luxury! Please don’t fret; it’s very affordable.
But what about the park itself? Besides the pool, it has one more thing for history fans, the best preserved Native American-Indian Burial Mounds in the US. So, if this sounds like something you’d like to see, don’t miss it on your list of things to do in Quincy.
Address: 1500 S 5th Street, Quincy, IL 62301, USA
13. Drink Beers at the Quincy Brewing Company
What’s so special about beer? You must taste Quincy Beer Company’s beer if you asked that question. This brewery has sixteen taps serving authentic beers packed with heady, intoxicating flavors and a unique gluten-free cider option.
Here, you’ll find flavors you never thought possible in beer: tangy citrus bursts, floral, tropical, roast, nuts, and chocolate. The gluten-free option is arguably even better, with hints of various fruits, including pineapple and blueberries.
Even if you’re not so crazy about alcohol, be careful here because you’ll keep going for more. It’s that delicious!
Address: 110 N 6th St, Quincy, IL 62301, United States
14. Unwind at Joker’s Lounge
Nature is beautiful and calming, but sometimes you want to be indoors. Whenever you feel like that, head over to Joker’s Lounge, sit back and relax.
The friendly relaxation center has lots in store for you, including board games, Jenga, and danceable music to get you in the mood. If you’re the gambling type, it has pool tables, slot machines, and dart boards, a small-town version of Vegas just for you.
There’s no shortage of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, something for everyone.
Address: 614 Maine St, Quincy, IL 62301, United States
15. Get Souvenirs at Boyer’s BootNShoe
You need physical memories, not just pictures, so don’t leave Quincy without one. Pop into Boyer’s; this trusty store has multiple leather goods and shoes to remind you of your time here.
Cowboy boots in true Midwestern fashion, belts, purses, and more, all within your grasp! The best part is Boyer’s has been around for five generations, so there’s more history for you to cherish.
Address: 420 N 36th St, Quincy, IL 62301, United States
Plan Your Next Trip to Quincy, IL
You’ve seen all the attractions and lovely things to do in Quincy, so why haven’t you booked your flight?
The above list is only a fraction of the fun you’ll have in this picturesque town. Hurry, so you can get as much vacation time as you need.
Remember, vacations are better with friends, so share this with someone you want to tag along with!
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