10 Free & Low-Cost Family Activities in the Quad Cities That Your Kids Will Love
If you're like me—a parent always on the hunt for ways to make meaningful memories without blowing the budget—you're in luck. The Quad Cities are bursting with fun, family-friendly adventures that are totally free or super affordable.
Whether you're a local or just visiting, here are some of my favorite ways to spend time with the kids, make memories, and enjoy everything our beautiful community has to offer.
1. TAKE A STROLL THROUGH THE QC RIVERFRONT TRAILS
From Bettendorf to Rock Island, the Mississippi River Trail offers stunning views and miles of paved paths for biking, walking, or scootering. Bring snacks and make it a picnic at Schwiebert Riverfront Park or Leach Park! Check out the trail map.
2. VISIT THE FAMILY MUSEUM IN BETTENDORF (LOW-COST FUN)
Admission is budget-friendly—and worth every penny. Kids can explore interactive exhibits, climb through the outdoor play area, and enjoy rotating activities. Tip: Grab a summer pass that bundles admission with Niabi Zoo for the best value! Family Museum Website
3. SUMMER CONCERTS IN THE PARK
Many Quad Cities towns host free summer concerts in local parks. Bring a blanket, snacks, and let the kids dance in the grass while you enjoy the music and the moment. Don’t forget to check the summer schedules in Davenport, Moline, and Bettendorf.
4. FIGGE ART MUSEUM - FREE FOR KIDS
Located in downtown Davenport, the Figge offers free admission for children under 4 and often features hands-on art activities perfect for young creatives. A quiet, inspiring space for a slower-paced afternoon. Figge Art Museum
5. NIABI ZOO - AFFORDABLE MEMBERSHIP OR DISCOUNT DAYS
While not free, the zoo is still a budget-friendly adventure—especially with a seasonal membership. Bonus: they often run discount days in spring and fall. Great for a half-day trip the whole family will enjoy. Niabi Zoo
6. PARKS + OUTDOOR EXPLORATION GALORE
Vander Veer Botanical Park – A stunning, peaceful spot with gardens, fountains, ducks, a greenhouse, and a playground. Beautiful in every season.
Scott County Park – Perfect for a quick hike, a picnic, or even a nearby camping trip.
Nahant Marsh – A hidden gem for nature walks and bird-watching.
West Lake Park – Great for fishing, paddling, or lakeside lounging.
Fejervary Park – A local favorite with a pool, playground, and lots of space to roam.
7. QC AREA LIBRARIES = FREE STORYTIMES + EVENTS
From toddler storytimes to tween craft nights and teen coding clubs, the Moline, Davenport, and Rock Island libraries are loaded with (free!) programming for every age group.
8. SPLASH PADS AND PUBLIC POOLS
Beat the Midwest heat at public splash pads across the QC. Many are free or just a couple bucks.
9. WATCH BARGES AT LOCK AND DAM 15
It might seem simple, but watching the massive river barges move through the lock system is fascinating for kids (and adults!).
10. SEASON FESTIVALS AND FARMERS MARKETS
QC festivals are packed with kid-friendly fun—bounce houses, games, live music, and more. Check out:
Bettendorf Summer Fest
Rock Island Grand Prix
Freight House Farmers Market (which often has treats, performers, and music for kids!)
11. LOCAL HIKING GEMS
If you're up for a short drive, lace up your shoes and check out:
Maquoketa Caves State Park (a must for adventurous families!)
12. CHEER ON LOCAL SPORTS TEAMS
Catch a River Bandits baseball game at Modern Woodmen Park or root for the QC Storm during hockey season. Both are high-energy, family-friendly, and affordable.
13. QC BOTANICAL CENTER
Explore tropical greenhouses, koi ponds, and a children’s garden designed for hands-on play. A relaxing, educational stop that’s beautiful year-round.QC Botanical Center
14. JOHN DEERE PAVILLION
Let your little ones climb into massive tractors and learn about farming and innovation at this free, interactive museum in downtown Moline. John Deere Pavillion
15. RIDE THE CHANNEL CAT WATER TAXI
For just a few bucks, hop on and off the Channel Cat for a fun way to explore the riverfront and see the QC from the water. It’s a hit with kids and a unique summer experience. Channel Cat Water Taxi
DON’T FORGET TO DOCUMENT THE MAGIC
As a photographer (and a mom), I’m always encouraging families to slow down and capture the now. These simple, joy-filled moments—splash pad giggles, muddy hikes, barefoot concerts—are the good stuff.
You don’t need a fancy camera or a perfect setup. Just take the photo.
And if you're ever craving a deeper way to preserve these memories, a lifestyle or documentary session right here in the Quad Cities is the perfect way to tell your family’s story—authentic, messy, beautiful, and yours. I especially love to include what your family loves to do together. I’d love to meet and document your family.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Making family memories doesn’t have to cost a fortune. The Quad Cities is overflowing with charm, connection, and community—all waiting for you to explore. So grab your kids, your camera (or just your phone), and start making some memories that actually stick.
👉 Did I miss your favorite free or low-cost family activity in the QC? Let me know in the comments—I love discovering new gems!
MAGGIE RECHKEMMER
Maggie Rechkemmer is a family photographer and educator based in the Quad Cities. She’s passionate about documenting real, everyday moments through film, digital, and Super 8—capturing the magic in the messy and the beauty in the ordinary. When she’s not behind the camera or teaching fellow creatives, you can find her exploring with her kids, running through the trails, or working on her 1914 home.
Want to learn more? Head over to her main website here.