Muscatine Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Muscatine, Iowa, with this comprehensive tour guide. Learn about the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Muscatine

Nestled in the rolling hills alongside the Mississippi River, Muscatine is a quaint little town that boasts a rich history, culture, and natural beauty. With its picturesque views, Muscatine is an ideal getaway for nature lovers. The town is home to several parks that offer miles of hiking, biking, and walking trails, as well as opportunities for bird watching and fishing. The town’s downtown area is dotted with historic buildings that house museums, art galleries, antique shops, and restaurants. Whether you are a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie looking for a new culinary experience, Muscatine has something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Muscatine

Below are the top places to visit in Muscatine according to category:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Muscatine Art Center: Showcasing the works of local and regional artists, the Muscatine Art Center is a hidden gem that should not be missed.
  • The Pearl Button Museum: Chronicling the history of the button industry, this unique museum offers a glimpse into the button boom era of the late 19th century.
  • Muscatine History and Industry Center: Providing an in-depth look at the town’s history and industry, the Muscatine History and Industry Center has interesting exhibits that focus on river navigation, immigration, and local industry.

Natural Attractions of Muscatine: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wildcat Den State Park: An ideal destination for hikers and nature lovers, Wildcat Den State Park offers challenging trails that provide stunning views of the Mississippi River.
  • Pine Creek Grist Mill: A restored 19th-century mill that offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Deep Lakes Park: A popular spot for fishing and kayaking, with its calm and tranquil waters providing a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Muscatine

  • Muscatine Riverfront Trail: Running along the scenic Mississippi River, this 19-mile trail is perfect for biking or walking.
  • Fairport Recreation Area Trail: A 4-mile trail that winds through a scenic forest and offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River.

Best Things to Do in Muscatine: Activities and Tours

  • Riverboat Twilight: Take a sunset cruise on the Mississippi River aboard this historic paddleboat.
  • Kent Stein Park: The perfect spot for picnics and relaxation, this beautiful park offers a stunning view of the Mississippi River.
  • Village of East Davenport: A charming neighborhood with an eclectic mix of boutiques, restaurants, and antique stores.

Week-Long Itinerary for Muscatine

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Muscatine Art Center and the Pearl Button Museum
Day 2 Explore Wildcat Den State Park and hike the trails.
Day 3 Spend the day on the Mississippi River enjoying fishing, kayaking or a riverboat tour.
Day 4 Visit the Muscatine History and Industry Center and take a tour of the surrounding area by car or bike.
Day 5 Stop by Pine Creek Grist Mill, followed by a picnic at Kent Stein Park.
Day 6 Take a day trip to the Village of East Davenport and enjoy some shopping and dining.
Day 7 Relax at Deep Lakes Park and enjoy a day of fishing and boating.

Food and Drink Scene of Muscatine

Must-Try Dishes

  • Maid-Rite: A classic Iowa sandwich made with loose-meat ground beef and known for its savory seasoning.
  • Catfish: Muscatine is known for its freshly-caught catfish served in local restaurants.
  • Sweet corn: A summer staple in Iowa, fresh sweet corn is a must-eat when in Muscatine.

Local Beverages

  • Iowa Wines: The area surrounding Muscatine is full of wineries, where you can sample local varieties.
  • Muddy River Distillery: A local distillery that offers tours and tastings of their award-winning rum and whiskey.

Where to Stay in Muscatine: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Muscatine: A modern hotel that offers luxurious rooms and great amenities.
  • AmericInn by Wyndham: This hotel has a great location and offers affordable rooms.
  • Sullivan’s Inn: A charming bed and breakfast located near the riverfront.

What to Buy in Muscatine: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Pearl Buttons: A unique souvenir from Muscatine is a handmade pearl button, similar to those made during the town’s button boom era.
  • Wine: Take home a few bottles of locally produced Iowa wine.
  • Local Art: The Muscatine Art Center has a gift shop that features local art that makes perfect souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Muscatine

Iowa is known for its Midwestern charm and hospitality, and Muscatine is no exception. The town is friendly and welcoming, with locals ready to strike up a conversation and share their community pride with visitors. It is important to note that being respectful and courteous to locals is an essential part of Muscatine’s culture.

Best Time to Visit Muscatine

The best time to visit Muscatine is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm and perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and fishing. Additionally, the town’s festivals and events mostly happen during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Muscatine

Do:

  • Do try the local food and drink scene.
  • Do visit the local museums, parks, and natural attractions.
  • Do take part in the outdoor activities

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter.
  • Don’t vandalize local properties or attractions.
  • Don’t disrespect the local culture and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Muscatine

Muscatine is a safe town, with very low crime rates. Standard safety precautions like locking your car and valuables when parking in public places are essential, nonetheless.

Health in Muscatine

Muscatine has several medical facilities, including major hospitals and clinics. In case of an emergency, simply dial 911.

Getting to Muscatine: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Muscatine

The nearest airport to Muscatine is the Quad Cities International Airport, located about 24 miles away. Another option is the Eastern Iowa Airport, located about 35 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Muscatine

The Greyhound Bus station is in Davenport, situated approximately 30 miles away from Muscatine.

Other Options

The best way to get to Muscatine is by car. It has excellent interstate access with Interstate 80 and 380 bringing you within short proximity to the city.

How to Get Around in Muscatine

The best way to get around in Muscatine is by car. However, there are several taxi services if you require one. Some hotels offer shuttle services to local attractions.

Where to Go Next from Muscatine: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Amana Colonies: A group of seven villages located about 100 miles from Muscatine and famous for their German heritage, cuisine, and crafts.
  • Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and National Park: Located in West Branch, about an hour’s drive from Muscatine, this National Historic Site tells the story of Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States.
  • Maquoketa Caves State Park: Located about 80 miles from Muscatine, this park is a must-visit attraction for those who love exploring caves and hiking.

Conclusion

Muscatine, Iowa, might be less popular than other travel destinations, but it has plenty to offer. Its rich history and culture, beautiful natural scenery, and friendly locals ensure that visitors have an enjoyable and memorable experience in this charming Iowa town.