Quad-Cities residents gathered Wednesday in River Heritage Park, 615 E. River Drive, Davenport, to welcome Viking Cruise Lines' first Mississippi River cruise and its passengers to the area. The vessel began its journey in St. Paul, Minnesota Sept. 3, docking in communities along the river shore on its way to St. Louis.
Visit Quad Cities asked Dawn to commemorate the occasion with her painting, and rolled out the red carpet for passengers to disembark and head off to excursions, including the Deere-Wiman House and Butterworth Center, Figge Art Museum and John Deere Pavilion & Store. A band played jazz tunes while residents and passengers sipped champagne in the late summer sun.
Visit Quad Cities President and CEO Dave Herrell said at the ribbon cutting that Viking's stop in the Quad-Cities is another example of the region coming together to pursue the vision of becoming an internationally-known riverfront destination.
From city governments to local businesses and organizations, many partners collaborated to create a unique and welcoming experience for the tourists stepping off the boat.
"I think this is a very proud moment in the history of the Quad-Cities," Herrell said.
Davenport Riverfront Improvement Commission Executive Officer Steve Ahrens said he was satisfied seeing Viking Mississippi dock at the remodeled River Heritage Park. The city extended the river walk and beautified the park in preparation for increased foot traffic from the cruises.
