BETTENDORF, Iowa — Community leaders, local business owners, and tourism professionals gathered at the Quad-Cities Waterfront Convention Center in Bettendorf for Visit Quad Cities' annual “Destination QC” event. The organization showcased tourism’s significant economic role in the area and outlined plans to boost regional tourism, with an emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility.
According to Visit Quad Cities, tourism brings $1.3 billion to the Quad Cities each year, with over 6.7 million annual visitors. In addition to sports tourism, which accounts for 56% of the organization's group business, major events like the 50th anniversary of RAGBRAI, national river cruises, and initiatives like the John Deere Trail highlight the area’s appeal as a travel destination.
Visit Quad Cities’ President and CEO Dave Herrell emphasized that tourism supports over 9,000 local jobs, with a direct economic impact of over $30 million from group business alone.
“Seeing tax generation up year over year and jobs directly supported by the industry are really positive trends," Herrell said.
Visit Quad Cities also announced plans to host the NCAA Division I women’s golf regional in 2028 as well as the 2027 Small Market Meetings conference. Officials said those are both significant wins for local tourism. According to Herrell, tourism does more than boost the local economy—it strengthens community pride and national visibility.
"There’s so much behind the numbers, in terms of what we do for the region and sharing our story," Herrell said.
For details on Visit Quad Cities' initiatives, programs and events, and ways to support local tourism, click here.
