Looking for fun things to do in the Quad Cities without spending a fortune? Whether you’re planning a date night, a day out with friends, or just looking for something different to do on the weekend, there are plenty of activities around Davenport, Bettendorf, Moline, Rock Island, and surrounding towns that cost under $100.
From outdoor adventures and live entertainment to breweries and local attractions, here are some fun things to do in the Quad Cities that won’t break the budget.
Explore the Mississippi Riverfront
One of the best things about the Quad Cities is the Mississippi River, and spending time along the riverfront is completely free.
Great places to walk, bike, or relax include:
• Riverfront Trail – Davenport & Bettendorf
• Ben Butterworth Parkway – Moline
• Schwiebert Riverfront Park – Rock Island
Bring coffee, take a sunset walk, or simply enjoy the river views.
Visit Local Breweries
The Quad Cities has a growing craft beer scene, and visiting breweries can be a fun and affordable outing.
Some popular stops include:
• Great River Brewery – Davenport
• Crawford Brew Works – Bettendorf
• Wake Brewing – Rock Island
• Radicle Effect Brewerks – Rock Island
A couple of drinks and appetizers can easily keep a brewery outing under $100 for two people.
Explore LeClaire for an Afternoon
LeClaire is one of the most charming small towns near the Quad Cities and makes for an easy day trip.
Things to do in LeClaire:
• browse local boutiques
• grab lunch at a riverfront restaurant
• stop by Wide River Winery for a tasting
• walk along the Mississippi River
It’s a relaxing way to spend an afternoon without spending much.
Visit a Local Museum
The Quad Cities has several museums where admission is affordable.
A few worth checking out:
• Putnam Museum & Science Center – Davenport
• Figge Art Museum – Davenport
• Hauberg Estate – Rock Island
These spots offer a great mix of history, science, and art.
Go to a Trivia Night
Trivia nights are one of the most fun and inexpensive social activities around the QC.
You’ll find trivia events at many local bars and breweries, including:
• Front Street Brewery – Davenport
• Crawford Brew Works – Bettendorf
• Wake Brewing – Rock Island
Most trivia nights are free to join—just order food or drinks while you play.
Spend the Day at a Local Park
If you enjoy being outdoors, the Quad Cities has some beautiful parks.
A few favorites include:
• Vander Veer Botanical Park – Davenport
• Credit Island Park – Davenport
• Black Hawk State Historic Site – Rock Island
These parks offer scenic trails, picnic areas, and peaceful places to relax.
Check Out a Local Festival or Event
The Quad Cities hosts many free or low-cost events throughout the year, especially during warmer months.
Popular events often include:
• farmers markets
• live music events
• seasonal festivals
• food truck gatherings
Many of these events cost little or nothing to attend.
Why Affordable Activities Are Easy to Find in the Quad Cities
One of the best things about the Quad Cities is how many activities are available without spending a lot of money. Between riverfront parks, breweries, museums, and local events, it’s easy to plan a fun day or night out while staying within a budget.
✔ QC Girl Tip:
One of the best ways to keep a day under budget in the Quad Cities is to mix activities—start with a riverfront walk, explore a local park or museum, and finish the evening with drinks or dinner at a brewery on either side of the river.