When you combine art and nature, you have an extra special experience. If you visit Rock Island, Illinois, one of the Quad Cities, you should visit The Quad Cities Botanical Garden located near the Mississippi River with a striking glass building. If you time it right, you could visit their "Flamingo Follies" event which displays plastic flamingo art.
The art program supports the non-profit. With a $10 fee, you pick up a plastic flamingo, decorate it, and deliver it to the garden for display. Participants have an opportunity to win in one of three categories (adult, youth, or professional). The botanical center utilizes the art to entertain guests and provide a second fund-raiser. Adult entries raffled off at Art in the Garden help support the non-profit.
We timed one of our visits to the Quad Cities Botanical Garden right. We were able to see the decorated flamingos amongst the tropical Sun Garden. This garden has palm trees, fish, coconut and chocolate trees, and orchids. The 14-foot waterfall adds to the lush environment.
When you have a nice day, check out the outdoor garden too. It includes a butterfly garden and places to relax.
Our interest in this botanical garden began before construction began. At a bridal expo, I learned about the plans for the botanical garden with a banquet facility. Considering our love for nature, supporting a non-profit with our wedding reception business felt just right. Without a brick laid, we took a chance and signed a contract. We had a wonderful experience with guests able to visit the garden prior to the reception, catered dinner, and a dance floor. Later we donated to buy an engraved brick that was paved as part of the walkway. You can help the garden by visiting ($7 adult, $4 youth), buying a membership ($70 annual family), buying a 4x6 brick ($150). If you have a group of 10 or more, you have more options. You can arrange a tour (self guided $5 each, tropical paradise $7, chocolate tour $12, botanical bliss with essential oil making $15). The garden location was so right for our reception. Taking a chance led to a beautiful experience. Now you can go visit and decide for yourself.
