The new Rock Island Arsenal Trail officially launched on Monday, May 11, 2026. Located in the heart of the Quad Cities, the Rock Island Arsenal occupies a 946-acre island in the Mississippi River.

This historic military installation has played a vital role in major American conflicts, from the Civil War to the present day, since its establishment in 1862. As the nation celebrates America’s 250^th birthday, this new experience connects the past to the present and invites visitors to explore 13 points of interest. Along the way, participants can enjoy scenic views of the Mississippi River, outdoor recreation, historic landmarks, and meaningful moments of patriotism, according to a Monday release from Visit Quad Cities.

Those who complete all 13 check-ins on the trail will be awarded a one-time-use $15 coupon, for use at any of the following Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) facilities on the island: Arsenal Golf Pro Shop, Arsenal Auto Service, Arsenal Outdoor Recreation, Arsenal Leisure Travel, and the Oasis Cafe.

The new Rock Island Arsenal Trail is a partnership with Visit Quad Cities.

In addition, those who have finished the trail will be automatically entered into a drawing for a $100 VISA Gift Card during the week of May 3, 2027. One random winner will be selected and notified via email.

“The addition of the Rock Island Arsenal Trail strengthens the Quad Cities’ unique position as a community deeply connected to the history and future of our nation. The Arsenal is a significant landmark that represents generations of service, leadership, innovation, and partnership within the United States,” said Dave Herrell, president and CEO of Visit Quad Cities. “As we approach the America 250 celebration, this self-guided trail offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect on that legacy and share it with others in an accessible and engaging way. The Arsenal is a destination and tourism asset that our region is proud to share its story and further activate its experience for visitors and residents.”

The new Rock Island Arsenal Trail is a partnership with Visit Quad Cities.

Locations include:

• The Golf Course
• Colonel Davenport Historic Home
• Mississippi River Visitor Center
• The Clock Tower
• 1856 Bridge Pier
• The Rock Island Arsenal Museum
• Sundial and Flagler’s Battery
• Rock Island Prison Barracks
• The Stone Shops
• Memorial Park
• Confederate Cemetery
• Rock Island National Cemetery
• Quarters One

“For generations, the Arsenal has played a vital role in supporting our nation’s defense while fostering strong partnerships across the Quad Cities,” said Col. Joe Parker, Garrison Commander, Rock Island Arsenal. “This trail invites people to experience that legacy firsthand by connecting past to present in a way that is both meaningful and accessible. It serves as a powerful reminder of the people, purpose, and progress that continue to define this historic site.”

The Rock Island Arsenal is a major Army installation that is the home to more than 80 tenant organizations that provide critical products and services to all of our Armed Services. It employs more than 6,000 military, civilian, and contractor personnel.

All U.S. citizens are welcome to visit Rock Island Arsenal. Simply enter through the Moline Gate off River Drive in Moline. Hours are from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. Visitors aged 18 and older without a Department of Defense ID must obtain a visitor pass at the Moline Gate Visitor Welcome Center.

Please bring a REAL ID or two forms of government-issued identification (such as a driver’s license, passport, social security card, or vehicle registration). All visitors must undergo a standard background check for entry. Note: Foreign nationals may only access the Arsenal for official business.

Visit the Arsenal’s official website for more information on access requirements

For more information on the Rock Island Arsenal Trail, visit RIATrail.com.

The Rock Island Arsenal Museum is among 13 attractions on Arsenal Island part of the new Rock Island Arsenal Trail.

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Jonathan Turner

Jonathan Turner -- who has called the Quad Cities home since 1995 -- has decades of experience as a professional journalist and pianist. His experience writing for daily newspapers, public radio and local TV encompasses a wide range of subjects, including the arts, politics, education, economic development, historic preservation, business, and tourism.

Jonathan most loves writing about music and the arts (which he now does as a freelancer for the River Cities Reader and Visit Quad Cities). He has a passion for accompanying musicals, singers, choirs and instrumentalists, including playing for QC Music Guild's 2023 productions of RENT and SWEENEY TODD. He is assistant music director and accompanist for the spring 2025 Music Guild show, ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE. He wrote an original musical based on The Book of Job, which premiered at Playcrafters in 2010. Jonathan penned a 175-page history book about downtown Davenport, that was published by The History Press in 2016, and a travel guide about the QC published by Reedy Press in 2022.