Quad Cities, IL/IA (September 27, 2024) - Visit Quad Cities announced the official designation of Union Station in downtown Davenport as an Iowa Welcome Center, solidifying its role as a key resource for visitors and residents across the region. Visit Quad Cities announced this during Union Station’s 100th anniversary celebration on Thursday, September 26, 2024, highlighting the building’s continued importance in the region’s tourism landscape.

The Iowa Welcome Center designation, awarded by the Iowa Economic Development Authority and Travel Iowa, places Union Station among an exclusive network of locations across the state dedicated to providing visitors with high-quality, personalized travel recommendations. With this new status, Union Station will continue to serve as a key resource for the Quad Cities region, enhancing visitor experiences and promoting the unique attractions and offerings of the area.

“We’re delighted to designate Visit Quad Cities’ Union Station as a partnership Iowa Welcome Center,” said Amy Zeigler, manager of the Iowa Tourism Office. “Visitors will not only receive personalized recommendations about the beautiful Quad Cities region but will also experience the warm, friendly hospitality that epitomizes ‘Iowa Nice.’ What a great way to welcome travelers to our state.”

A Milestone for Quad Cities and Iowa Tourism
This designation solidifies Union Station’s role in advancing Iowa’s tourism goals and aligns with Visit Quad Cities’ mission to enhance the visitor experience in the region. As the official destination management organization for the Quad Cities, Visit Quad Cities will use this opportunity to further promote local and state tourism initiatives.

“Union Station’s recognition as an Iowa Welcome Center is a tremendous honor and a pivotal moment for our region," said Dave Herrell, President and CEO of Visit Quad Cities. "This new designation allows us to amplify our efforts in welcoming visitors to the Quad Cities and showcasing the region’s unique attractions. We’re proud to enhance the visitor experience and deepen engagement with our local tourism initiatives."

Celebrating 100 Years of Union Station
In addition to the Iowa Welcome Center announcement, Thursday’s event also marked the 100th anniversary of Union Station. As part of the festivities, local leaders—including Mayor Mike Matson and Visit Quad Cities Board Chair Maria Ontiveros—reflected on Union Station’s historical significance as a transportation hub and its modern-day transformation into a vibrant Visit Quad Cities Destination Center.

Guests enjoyed live music by the Edgar Crockett Trio and witnessed the unveiling of a 2024 time capsule, filled with items representing the current era of the Quad Cities.

Union Station, located at 102 S. Harrison St. in downtown Davenport, is not only a registered historical landmark but also a dynamic space where visitors can explore local attractions, browse merchandise, rent bikes, and engage with interactive displays.