The John Deere Pavilion has been a top attraction in the Quad Cities and the state of Illinois since it opened in 1997, drawing millions of guests from around the globe. To ensure it continues to be a cutting-edge facility and top attraction in the area, the Pavilion will soon undergo a major redesign of the guest experience.

The transformation will be significant and result in a completely new look and feel to

A rendering of future exhibits at the John Deere Pavilion in Moline, Ill., offers a look at a variety of new experiences including an expanded kids area, products representing Deere & Company's global reach, simulators, films and interactive displays. The Pavilion will close for the redesign from December 12 through mid-February, 2012 (Rendering courtesy of John Deere).

the facility's interior. It will also make more effective use of the outdoor hardscape. The physical building will remain the same, as all enhancements will focus on new exhibits and presentation methods that provide a broader representation of the global operations of the company.

"As the cornerstone of the John Deere Commons, the John Deere Pavilion is a strong foundation to a thriving downtown in Moline," says Brian Holst, marketing manager for the John Deere Pavilion. "We are proud of the facility's success, yet we are always looking for ways to improve. Next year will be the Pavilion's 15th anniversary making this an ideal time to offer our guests and fans something completely new. This redesign is the result of several years of planning and we look forward to unveiling it to the public in mid-February."

The new guest experience will showcase the global reach of the company today and into the future as well as chronicle the company's rich history and heritage. Exhibits will feature all aspects of the company including its many businesses and global markets, broad range of innovative products, concept vehicles, and corporate citizenship.

Guests also will experience how the company's high-tech products and services are helping provide food, shelter and infrastructure for a growing global population aswell as enhance the lives and livelihoods of John Deere customers around the world who are linked to the land. An expanded children's area will offer a variety of hands-on learning activities, keeping the John Deere Pavilion a destination for the whole family.

The renovation requires the John Deere Pavilion to be closed for approximately eight weeks starting December 12, 2011. The Pavilion will reopen to the public inmid-February of 2012 and will continue to be a free attraction. The John Deere Store, located adjacent to the Pavilion, will remain open while the Pavilion is closed for the redesign.

To follow the progress during the renovation visit www.JohnDeereAttractions.com or visit it on Facebook.