Dozens of things to do in the QC with your family for under $1

Summer in the Quad Cities is a beautiful thing. (We deserve it after surviving winter.)

With the change of season comes a plethora of activities for families - but some may argue that all these events and festivals come at a cost. 

Not so fast! We have compiled a few of our very favorite local spring and summer activities for family - all for under $1. (Many are completely free!)

So you don't have to go broke to have fun and make memories this summer with your family. ​

• Don't miss the outdoor concerts this summer - you can find live music every night of the week. (Free)

• Don't forget our Quad Cities libraries this summer - Bettendorf, Davenport, Moline and Rock Island Public Libraries all have wonderful children's programs, scheduled storytimes and summer reading programs. Plus, our local libraries also have passes to local museums and the zoo for library card holders to check out at no charge. (Free, contact your local library for specific details and availability of passes.)

• The John Deere Pavillion is a great rainy day (or too-hot day) activity. (Free)

• The Putnam Museum has a number of wonderful exhibits - including the Science Center. ($1 entry on Mondays between June 15 and July 20 with a Family Dollar Days coupon.)

• Bike rides are a great way to get exercise and explore the community as a family - some favorite local paths include the Great River Trail in Illinois, RiverWay Trail in Iowa and Duck Creek Parkway in Iowa.

• Genesius Guild provides free theatre at Lincoln Park in Rock Island all summer. (Free)

• Enjoy one of the free movie nights in Veteran's Park, Bettendorf. (Free)

• Check out the Children's Garden at the Quad City Botanical Center. ($1 entry on Mondays between June 15 and July 20 with a Family Dollar Days coupon.)

• Fejervary Children's Center in Davenport is a gem - especially for the youngest kids. Check out the community garden and large sand play area. (Free, closed Mondays)

• There are endless options for hiking in the Quad Cities - try Wildcat Den State Park in Muscatine, Credit Island in Davenport, Black Hawk State Historic Site in Rock Island or Nahant Marsh in Davenport. (Free)

• The Walnut Grove Pioneer Village is a real blast from the past - it's also perfect spot for a picnic. (Free)

• West Lake Park in Davenport has four lakes for picnicking and fishing. (Free)

• Feed the ducks at Vander Veer Park. (For only .50, you can buy food right there.)

• Enjoy a swim night at Riverside Aquatic Center in Moline. ($1 entry on Monday evenings between June 15 and July 20 with your Family Dollar Days coupon.)

• There are amazing splash pads on both sides of the river - Schweibert Riverfront Park in Rock Island and Centennial Park in Davenport. Bring your towel and sunscreen! (Free)

• The Bettendorf Family Museum has a variety of fun exhibits for kids - including outdoor options.  ($1 entry on Monday evenings between June 15 and July 20 with a Family Dollar Days coupon.)

• Both Cinemark Theatre in Davenport and Regal Theatre in Moline offer $1 daytime showings of family-friendly movies all summer long. Visit their websites for full details. ($1 for certain showings)

• Don't miss the Backwater Gamblers Water Ski Show every Wednesday and Sunday evening all summer. (Free) 

There's no better investment in your family than time together. This strengthens the bond with your child and creates lasting memories. And these experiences don't have to cost anything but your time.

Try one of these ideas - and share your favorite things to do in the Quad Cities for under $1.