Old Schuetzen Park

A Piece of German-American Heritage

Tucked away in Davenport's west end lies Old Schuetzen Park, a charming 26-acre nature haven with roots stretching back to 1870. Founded by German-American immigrants, this spot started as a simple target shooting range and social gathering place, but quickly blossomed into something much more special.

In its heyday during the early 1900s, the park was quite the attraction - complete with an inn, dance hall, roller coaster, and even a zoo. Imagine the laughter and conversations that once filled this space as thousands gathered here for weekend entertainment!

Wander Through the Woods

Today, Old Schuetzen Park offers a refreshing escape from city life with its natural landscape and winding trails. You'll discover over a mile of looping paths that meander through dense woods, creating a peaceful retreat that feels miles away from urban bustle. The trails provide just enough challenge to count as a good workout while letting you soak in the serene forest atmosphere.

Where History Meets Modern Day

As you explore, you'll come across a beautifully restored 1911 streetcar waiting station near the main entrance - one of the few original structures still standing. The park features modern additions like picnic shelters, a bandstand for summer concerts, and an outdoor fireplace that's nice for cooler evenings.

Scattered throughout the grounds are plenty of spots to enjoy a packed lunch or quiet moment. There's also a shelter with kitchen facilities available to rent for events, however keep in mind there's no running water on the property.

Plan Your Visit

The park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 7PM, May through November. Being privately owned, it thrives on community support and dedicated volunteers who maintain its natural beauty and facilities.

Restroom facilities exist but aren't always accessible, so plan accordingly. If you're thinking of bringing your four-legged friend, you'll discover trash cans with dog waste bags available, although there seems to be some uncertainty about the pet policy - it might be worth checking current rules before your visit.

As you explore this unique Davenport landmark, take a moment to appreciate both its rich history and natural tranquility. It's the kind of place where you can step away from the noise of everyday life and find a quiet moment among the trees, just as visitors have been doing for over 150 years.