As nature opens the door to the road of travel this spring, Quincy, Illinois offers 50 inspiring area destinations to explore—for free. Plus trails, tours and festivals designed to envelope visitors in the local food & drink scene.

Experience the splendor of the Mississippi River along the Great River Road and the astounding architecture in four National Register Historic Districts. The Abundant Architecture Guide is a self-guided navigation of 48 properties representing 30 different styles from Art Deco and Lustron to Venetian Gothic and Victorian, with a walking tour of the majestic East End Historic District. For Mid-Century Modern lovers, Mid Mod Quincy is another self-guided driving tour of 30 prime locations from this marvelous era. The guide includes a 20-point itinerary with eating, shopping, recreation and cocktails, all retro themed.

While cruising the tree-lined streets of Quincy, pause to tour historic museums suggested on the 50 Free Things To Do List. The History Museum on the Square was built in 1888 as the city’s first public library, anchoring historic Washington Park and is now a touring museum with a stunning stained glass gallery and gift shop. The Quincy Art Center is another free gem featuring exhibits and engaging hands-on classes, with a portion of the gallery located in an 1852 carriage house.

Foodies unite on Quincy’s award-winning Summer Flavor Tours. SeeQuincy’s guided tours offer an immersive experience of the local culinary culture June-August. Owners of downtown venues share prized food and drink menus each Saturday and tour-goers hear entertaining nuggets of the city’s past along the way. Flavor Tours celebrates seven years and is a sell-out event garnering rave reviews.

Spring/Summer Food & Drink Focused Events/Tours:

  • Mayfest at Dick Brother’s Brewery / May
  • Saturday Farmers Market / May-Oct
  • Summer Flavor Tours / Saturdays June-Aug
  • Mississippi Valley Wine Trail / Year round
  • Tri-County Catfish Trail / Year round
  • Makers Markets at Quincy Brewing Co / June, July, Aug
  • Reserve Summer Flavor Tours at SeeQuincy.com / Saturdays, 11a-2p, June-Aug / 24-hour reservations
  • Reserve free 2-hr bike rentals at SeeQuincy.com
  • For more travel inspiration order your free 2026 Quincy Area Travel Guide