Prospect Park - Moline, IL

The history of the Prospect Park Historic District began in 1895, when the founders of the town began developing the waterfront neighborhoods. Residents still enjoy the sight of many historic late Queen Anne style, Neoclassical and Tudor Revival homes that have been part of the neighborhood for over 100 years. As big companies such as John Deere, Alcoa and Purina started coming to the Quad Cities, this neighborhood became a popular place for physicians, attorneys and prominent figures to call home.

Those looking to take in more of the history of Davenport can visit the nearby Putnam Museum, where region-based history exhibits help paint a detailed picture of the history of Davenport, including places such as Prospect Park, a National Register of Historic Places site. At the bordering Figgie Art Museum, those interested in the arts can enjoy a rotating exhibit of galleries and displays from all over the world.

Prospect Park’s premier location in the heart of Davenport, means plenty of dining options fill the area. While other neighborhoods in the Quad Cities primarily supports chain restaurants, this area of town features small locally owned restaurants that serve patrons some local flavor.

For traditional bar food, drink specials and local beers, visit Grumpy’s Village Saloon. This small and inviting restaurant has a diverse menu with something for everyone as well as fresh-popped popcorn served at all the tables. Make sure to try one of its fresh, hand-tossed pizzas that it makes to order with a collection of unique toppings.

Residents in the mood for authentic Mexican cuisine go to Rudy’s Tacos, a favorite among Quad City patrons known for its fresh-made enchiladas and secret sauce. This area of Davenport also hosts the infamous Lagomarcino’s Cafe, made famous in the area when President Barack Obama stopped by to try this local favorite. Here, patrons can enjoy a fresh cafe sandwich or one of the cafe’s famous handmade candies that patrons can either try in store or buy by the box to take home. Make sure to try its infamous old-fashioned ice cream sodas at the soda fountain, a famous Quad City tradition since 1920.

The district in the Prospect Park area known as the Village of East Davenport provides the main nightlife scene in the town. Here, most of the late-night bars foster a fun atmosphere for residents and college students alike to enjoy. At the 11th Street Precinct, patrons enjoy late-night drink specials and performances from some of the best area bands on both Friday and Saturday evenings.

Most residents of Prospect Park and all of Davenport choose to travel by car. Convenient access to I-74 and I-80 make driving to nearby towns and across the river to Illinois a breeze. Free public parking also makes travel by car simple.

The Uber car service does not service the community, and cabs don't always answer hails on the street. However, by calling one of the local cab dispatch companies, most residents can enjoy a safe and reliable ride from a company. This community has relatively walkable streets, and it even has some dedicated bike lines that make cycling safe and easy.

While only a few public transportation options exist in the city, those who want to travel around Davenport can use the local CitiBus that has stops throughout the city. A circulator bus also services the area at night, providing a safe ride to those who want to travel to the bars and restaurants in the area.

Prospect Terrace Park rests at the heart of the neighborhood, which was named after the riverside location. This historic park has a biking and walking trail that connects it to the rest of the riverfront, other area parks and the Davenport city bike trail. Prospect Terrace Park also has playground equipment for little ones.

The area also hosts Lindsay Park, which features a playground for kids, a community baseball diamond and plenty of green space. This park hosts the annual Riverssance Festival of Fine Arts, a community event that showcases the talents of area artists.

Life in the Prospect Park area of Davenport carries an average to above average cost of living when compared to the rest of the Quad Cities. However, when compared to the national average, the cost runs 13 percent less than the national average. A one-bedroom apartment averages $550 per month.

A pint of beer at the local pub costs around $3 per glass, while a ride to the center of the city costs around $1.00 on the city bus. Gas settles in around 0.8% lower than the national average.

The shopping scene in Prospect Park consists mostly of small boutiques. Shop for your canine companion at Freddy Fritters Dog Bakery and Pet Boutique, or pick up fresh cut flowers at Aunt Rhodies. For gifts, cards and custom paper goods, residents visit The Plaid Rabbit to find local handmade housewares, gifts and decor. For furniture, high-end trinkets and decor, visit Calla Furniture, found right along the river.

However, the real heart of this shopping district is Isabel Bloom. A local artist with the same name once made concrete statues in the area, and the store has dozens of original designs inspired by the original artist’s work. Here, customers can purchase all types of one-of-a-kind gifts, ornaments, statues and home decor found only in Davenport.

Residents of Prospect Park do their grocery shopping at the local Hy-Vee supermarket. This grocery store has plenty of fresh produce, snacks and cooking supplies along its aisles. This grocery store also infamously carries fresh hot meals, pizza, subs and Chinese food for shoppers seeking quick dinners on-the-go. Just down the street along the riverfront, residents can also enjoy the local farmers market. On Tuesdays from 3 to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 to 1 p.m., residents can enjoy fresh local jams, jellies, fruit and vegetables at the Freight House Farmers Market, the Quad City’s only farmer’s market.