The Mississippi River Visitor Center is located on the Rock Island Arsenal in Rock Island, Illinois at Locks and Dam 15 , overlooking the Upper Mississippi River. The Mississippi River Visitor Center is operated by the Mississippi River Project of the Rock Island District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Since the early 1800's the Corps of Engineers has been instrumental in making the river navigable for both commercial and recreational vessels. From early April through mid December visitors from around the world come to the visitor center to watch boats pass through the lock.

The visitor center welcomes over 60,000 people annually and is handicap accessible. In addition to providing lock and dam tours during the summer months, rangers also offer a wide range of programs to the local community.

The visitor center is open seven days a week with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
Hours of operation are 9:00 am - 5:00 pm. 

Click here to visit our directions page for specific information on finding our visitor center. Security personnel will meet you at the gate, and may inspect your vehicle and ask for picture ID for persons over 16 years of age. Parking is available in the visitor center parking lot. Foreigners should contact the visitor center before visiting.

Arsenal Island security requires that motor coach and other tours require two weeks advance notice.
No motor coaches carrying luggage will be allowed access to Arsenal Island.

For more information: call 309-794-5338