Destination: Quad Cities

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A look down the fairway on the 18th hole at TPC Deere Run during the 2009 John Deere Classic.

Jul. 6, 2010
By LINKS Magazine

If you're looking to visit America's heartland, there is no better destination than the cities of Rock Island and Moline/East Moline in Illinois, and Davenport and Bettendorf in Iowa. This foursome borders the mighty Mississippi River and is home to the John Deere Classic, as well as the sponsor company that is a symbol of the area's agricultural heritage.

WHERE TO PLAY

Glynns Creek Golf Course: In 1996 LINKS Magazine, in conjunction with Audubon International recognized this Iowa muni as one of 40 courses around the country to receive a "Golf and the Environment" award. It is easy to see how this well-designed layout was worthy of such an honor.

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Highland Springs Golf Course: This Rock Island layout features a number of risk-reward holes like the dogleg-right 505-yard 11th, where big hitters can have just a wedge into the green for the second shot if they can hit their drive over trees while challenging both a pond and out of bounds.

TPC Deere Run: Illinois native D.A. Weibring won his first PGA TOUR event in the Quad Cities in 1979, then later won the tournament two more times, the last in 1995. He later designed the layout that has hosted the event, now known as the John Deere Classic, for the last 10 years.

WHERE TO STAY

Beiderbecke Inn: Overlooking the Mississippi River in downtown Davenport, this Victorian home built in 1880 has three guest rooms with private baths and chestnut woodwork, as well as a library, two parlor rooms and seven fireplaces.

Jumer's Casino & Hotel: A Vegas feel permeates this luxurious art deco lodge that has more than 42,000-square feet of gaming in addition to 205 rooms, an indoor pool, a fitness center and spa.

Radisson on John Deere Commons: Located in the heart of downtown Moline and along on the banks of the Mississippi River, this contemporary and comfortable hotel is within easy walking distance of great shopping and restaurants.

WHERE TO EAT

Bass Street Chop House: Located just east of the John Deer Commons in Moline, this steakhouse offers dry-aged steaks and seafood served in a casually elegant atmosphere of dark walnut walls and leather upholstery.

Le Figaro Restaurant: This Rock Island institution, run by award-winning chef Rachid Bouchareb, offers up continental cuisine like chateaubriand, Dover sole and duck a l'orange in a romantic atmosphere.

Steventon's: High on a bluff with magnificent views of the Mississippi River, this casually sophisticated restaurant with a low-lit ambiance specializes in tableside flamb�s like bananas foster.