Quad City Botanical Center Offers Winter Escape

 You can escape winter weather without leaving the Quad Cities. Starting today, local residents can take a trip to the beach by visiting the Quad City Botanical Center in Rock Island. 
 
Education Manager, Ellen Loechner, says this is the third year the Botanical Center has filled its Sun Garden with two tons of sand, creating a giant "Sand Island." 
 
She says there are sand toys provided and kids can bring their own. The sand-box is open through March, and is included with general admission.
 
The Quad City Botanical Center will also have several ocean themed events for kids through January.