Blissful Escape on the Mississippi in LeClaire, Iowa
An amble about LeClaire, Iowa enchants with charming historic structures, unique local businesses, lovely Mississippi River views, a jovial ambiance, foodie temptations, libations and interesting stories from the past. A visit to LeClaire always provides us with a fun little escape so we enjoy a little meander whenever we are in the area.
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| Ambling through quaint shops. |
Historic buildings lining Cody Road elicit delight and curiosity beckoning explorers to experience a cache of small businesses. We enjoyed wandering as well as reposing on the patio of Mississippi River Distilling Company.
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| Relaxing while tasting at Mississippi Distilling Company. |
Interesting LeClaire Fact: Tug Fest in annual tug of war over the Mississippi River between LeClaire and Port Byron, Illinois.
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| Grasshoppers takes residence in an 1870's river pilot house. |
A Town Fit for River Pilots
An absolutely exquisite Victorian home perched on a ridge overlooking the downtown houses an extraordinary gift shop called Grasshoppers that fills room after room with treasurers. The well-loved gift shop also includes charming lodging options in historic properties.
Grasshoppers once was a river pilot house. LeClaire is noted for its remarkable collection of river pilot houses dating from about the 1850's-1870's. River pilots navigated the rocky and menacing upper rapids of the Mississippi between LeClaire and Rock Island. The river pilot homes in LeClaire not only treat us to beautiful structures but also lend a reminder of these important river navigators.
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| View of LeClaire from Grasshoppers. |
A Taste of the Wild West
Buffalo Bill Cody was born in LeClaire. So, it is only fitting that the town have a special museum exhibit about the larger-than-life figure of the Wild West and showman. The Buffalo Bill Museum and Lone Star Steamer Display also features exhibits about Native Americans, river pilots, 1900's women's fashion, the Lone Star (a wooden hull steam powered paddle wheel) and more. If you are looking for more Buffalo Bill history, Buffalo Bill Cody Homestead -- his boyhood home -- is located nearby elsewhere in Scott County.
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| Buffalo Bill Cody Homestead |
Adventure Picking Like American Pickers
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| Wandering Antique Archaeology looking for treasures. |
We visited tthe home base for American Pickers by taking a turn around Antique Archaeology. When visiting LeClaire, we just cannot resist a trip to the shop. We enjoy spotting items here and that we saw Mike and Frank discover on the show. Additionally, the former fabrication shop is full of show mementos and souvenirs. So fun!
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| Lovely display and a way to help others in LeClaire, Iowa. |
Strolling Along the Mighty Mississippi
I absolutely love striking water views! While visiting LeClaire, we had to walk a bit along the Mississippi. During our stroll, we noted the beautiful Riverboat Twilight. I could soak in Mississippi River views forever!
More Mississippi River Fun: While in LeClaire, take a hike on Smith's Island to enjoy Mississippi views and a dense forest. Also, don't forget to check for bald eagles in the area!
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| Riverboat Twilight awaits her next adventure on the Mississippi! |
We also discovered several markers including one of Iowa's Freedom Rocks! These rocks are part of an art project that dot all of Iowa. Another adventure to embark on!
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| Freedom Rock standing boldly and proudly in LeClaire, Iowa. |
Meanders through LeClaire always provide such a delightful escape. The historic charm of the town captivates immediately. Mississippi River views enchant. LeClaire certainly wraps us up in its special and fun character helping us relax and just be in the moment. We so cherish trips to LeClaire!
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