The John Deere Pavilion and its unique, hands-on look at the past, present and future of agribusiness and houses the world's largest agricultural exhibit.

Pavilion History

The John Deere Commons was developed as the centerpiece of the Quad Cities Riverfront Project, a $50 million civic renewal program that broke ground in 1993 with the development of the MARK of the Quad Cities, a world-class conference facility and entertainment arena. The crown jewel of the renewal program, however, is the John Deere Pavilion, now celebrated as the most comprehensive agricultural exhibit in the world.

The conception of the John Deere Pavilion took place more than 160 years ago when John Deere developed his first self-scouring plow. His invention, and the company John Deere soon built around it, is credited for changing the history of this Midwestern community.

The John Deere Pavilion opened its doors to the public on August 16, 1997 with a grand opening celebration that attracted over 52,000 people in the first week.

To date, the John Deere Pavilion has attracted over one and a half million guests from over 50 countries and all 50 states. It has become the Quad Cities' most popular tourist attraction and is now recognized as one of Illinois' top five tourist attractions.

The John Deere Pavilion and John Deere Commons project have drawn on the combined efforts and support of federal, state, and local officials. It is a great example of a public-private partnership that can help a city develop an attraction that will benefit an entire community socially and economically for years to come.