Quincy, Illinois - Attractions

Attractions

As the largest city between the Quad Cities, St. Louis, Springfield, and Columbia areas, the Quincy area contains numerous architectural and historical destinations. Some of the featured attractions in the city include: the Quincy Museum, the John Wood Mansion, the Gardner Museum of Architecture and Design, the Quincy Art Center, and the Villa Katherine Castle.

During the year, the city holds numerous events. Events on the riverfront include the annual Fourth of July fireworks show, the U.S. Catfish Anglers Tournament, and "Movies on the Muddy", showings of recently released movies along the banks of the Mississippi River. Since 2006, Quincy has been host to the Big Dam Film Festival, an annual international film festival sponsored by Young Professionals Quincy. In addition, Quincy hosts the Pepsi Little People's Golf Championships, an annual event that features talented young golfers from around the world. The "Smoke on the River" BBQ Competition has also been put on by the Quincy Exchange Club since 2007 and is hosted on the river front.

During the summer, Quincy features the Midsummer Arts Faire the 4th weekend in June in downtown Quincy's historic Washington Park. The juried fine art festival features artwork for sale by artists throughout the region and country as well as food, entertainment and children's activities. A Gus Macker 3 on 3 basketball tournament has also been hosted by the Quincy Exchange Club since 1990 on Memorial Day weekend. From June to September, there is a series of free "Blues In The District" concerts in Washington Park. Quincy's Christmas Candelight Tour is held in December and features a public walk through several historic homes decorated for the holidays. The Dogwood Festival is held in spring. A parade leads people to see dogwood trees in bloom throughout the city. Another popular event for kids in the summer is the Quincy Breakfast Optimist Club's Soapbox Derby Race. The Soapbox Derby is held the second weekend after Memorial day.

During October, The Early Tin Dusters are in town showing cars that range from the early years up to 1948. The event is first held in Downtown Quincy and on the last day it is held at upper Moorman Park.

Throughout the year, a local grassroots project called Chophouse Hijack spurs interest and patronage in local restaurants by "hijacking" them with a variety arts and entertainment attractions. The initiative is unique to Quincy and is a great way to take in the various flavors and atmosphere's of Quincy's many eateries. If you are ever looking for a good time, the estate of Matthew Witte is viewed as a classic in Quincy.