Family Fun: 8 Kid-Friendly Spots Near Iowa-Illinois

Looking for family-friendly activities near the Iowa-Illinois border? The Quad Cities - Davenport, Bettendorf, Rock Island, Moline, and East Moline - offer a variety of attractions for kids and parents alike. From interactive museums and zoos to botanical gardens and sports complexes, there’s no shortage of things to do. Here’s a quick rundown of eight must-visit spots:

• Quad City Botanical Center: Indoor and outdoor gardens with a mini-Mississippi River play area and scavenger hunts.
• Putnam Museum and Science Center: Hands-on STEM exhibits, a Dino Dig, and space exploration displays.
• Niabi Zoo: Over 600 animals, train rides, and conservation programs.
• Family Museum: Interactive exhibits for kids under 12, including water play and a climbing zone.
• TBK Bank Sports Complex: Sports facilities, arcade games, laser tag, and bowling.
• QC Family Entertainment: Bowling, laser tag, and arcade games in a weather-proof venue.
• Modern Woodmen Park: Baseball games with amusement rides like a Ferris wheel and carousel.
• The Fun Station: Indoor adventure park with trampolines, climbing walls, and a play maze.

These spots combine affordability, convenience, and entertainment, making them perfect for day trips or weekend outings. Whether you’re into outdoor fun, hands-on learning, or indoor adventures, the Quad Cities have you covered.

The Fun Station Quad Cities

1. Quad City Botanical Center

The Quad City Botanical Center offers a perfect mix of nature and fun, making it a great spot for families. It’s a place where kids can explore and play, while parents enjoy a relaxing escape. With both indoor and outdoor attractions, it’s an ideal destination no matter the weather.

Kid-friendly activities

The Children's Garden is packed with fun features for kids, including a mini-Mississippi River water play area, Storybook Landscapes, sandboxes, and an interactive scavenger hunt. There’s even a 1:24th scale garden train exhibit, courtesy of the Heartland Central Garden Railway [1][2].

Indoor and outdoor options

No matter the season, the center has something to offer. Outside, themed gardens like the Children's Garden provide plenty to explore, while indoors, the tropical Sun Garden atrium is a warm and inviting space to enjoy year-round [3].

Admission cost (USD)

• Adults (16+): $9.00
• Youth (2-15): $6.00
• Children under 2: Free

Special rates include seniors (65+) and military with ID at $8.00, college students at $4.50, and $2.00 admission through the Museums for All program. Local libraries may also have passes available [1][4].

2. Putnam Museum and Science Center

The Putnam Museum and Science Center, located at 1717 W. 12th Street in Davenport, Iowa, is a fantastic spot for families looking for an engaging and educational outing. With four exhibit halls and rotating traveling exhibitions, this interactive museum offers something for everyone, especially kids eager to explore and learn [6].

Kid-Friendly Activities

The Science Center focuses on STEM learning through hands-on exhibits that make science fun. Kids can play a laser harp or create their own cloud in the Weather Center, where they’ll dive into the fascinating world of meteorology. The Science of Space exhibit invites families to explore the wonders of space, while Quad City Innovators highlights local achievements in science and technology.

A standout feature is the outdoor Dino Dig, where children can excavate fossils and imagine themselves as paleontologists uncovering the secrets of prehistoric life [5]. This immersive experience gives kids a real taste of scientific discovery. Whether indoors or outdoors, every exhibit is designed to spark curiosity and excitement.

Indoor and Outdoor Fun

No matter the weather, the Putnam Museum has plenty to offer. On sunny days, the outdoor Dino Dig is a big hit with kids. When the weather isn’t cooperating, families can enjoy the museum’s climate-controlled indoor spaces, which house exhibits like the Weather Center, Science of Space, and Quad City Innovators. These year-round attractions ensure there’s always something to explore [6].

Admission Costs (USD)

Museum General Admission:

• Adults: $12.00
• Seniors (60+), College Students, Military (with ID): $10.00
• Youth (3-18 years): $10.00
• Children (2 and under): Free
• EBT Cardholders (with ID): $3.00
• Members: Free [7]

GIANT Screen Theater:

• Adult Movie Ticket: $9.00
• Seniors/Students/Military (with ID): $8.00
• Youth Movie Ticket (3-18 years): $8.00
• Children (2 and under): Free
• Members: $1.00 off ticket price [7]

Looking to save? The museum offers several discounts. During Discovery Happy Hour, visitors can enjoy $5.00 off admission on weekdays from 3:30 to 5:00 PM (extended to 8:00 PM on Thursdays) [7]. Military families can take advantage of the Blue Star Museums program, which provides free general admission to active duty personnel and up to five family members between Armed Forces Day and Labor Day [7]. Additionally, the museum hosts special promotional days throughout the year, offering free admission for mothers, fathers, grandparents, and veterans when accompanied by a paid child admission [7].

3. Niabi Zoo

Nestled in Coal Valley, Illinois, Niabi Zoo offers a charming wildlife experience with a variety of animals to discover. It's a perfect destination for families looking for an engaging day trip, complete with up-close animal encounters. With a 3.9 rating on Tripadvisor [8], visitors often highlight the zoo's welcoming staff and well-maintained facilities.

Kid-Friendly Activities

Niabi Zoo blends fun and learning, making it a hit with families exploring the Iowa–Illinois border. Activities like feeding koi fish or interacting with domestic animals add to the charm. For a special treat, kids can participate in the Guinea Pig Experience ($5.00 per person). The zoo also offers rides, including a train ($4.75 for ages 2 and up) and a carousel ($4.50). A thoughtfully designed playground caters to toddlers and older kids, ensuring safe and enjoyable playtime.

The zoo is also home to a significant conservation effort. In collaboration with the Amur Leopard Species Survival planning group, Niabi Zoo successfully bred two Amur leopard cubs in 2019. This effort is vital, as fewer than 60 of these critically endangered leopards remain in the wild [9].

"Lots of improvements. Great interactive events for the kids to feed the animals (worth the modest added cost). We'll be back!"
– t0nylist0n, Tripadvisor Reviewer [8]

Indoor and Outdoor Options

No matter the season, Niabi Zoo has something to offer. The Biodiversity Hall, an indoor exhibit featuring Asian small-clawed otters, ensures visitors can enjoy animal encounters even on rainy or chilly days. Outdoor exhibits, including the Amur leopard enclosure, are the main attraction during warmer months. In colder weather, the zoo implements safety measures like mask requirements indoors to protect both guests and animals [9].

Accessibility and Amenities

For those eager to learn more, guided tours are available for $5.00 per person, offering deeper insights into animal behavior and conservation efforts. The zoo also serves as a haven for rescued animals, giving visitors a chance to learn about the importance of animal welfare.

Admission Cost (USD)

• Adults: $11.00
• Seniors (62+): $10.00
• Military (active & retired): $10.00
• Children (2-12): $8.50
• Children (1 and under): Free
• Zoo Members: Free

Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance without any difference in price. Discounts are available for groups of 15 or more with advance registration. Families can also save with FunBundle memberships, which include admission to Niabi Zoo, the Quad City Botanical Center, and the Putnam Museum & Science Center. Another option is the Zooseum pass, which covers both Niabi Zoo and the Family Museum [10].

4. Family Museum

Bettendorf's Family Museum, with a solid 4.6/5 rating on Tripadvisor, is a haven for families with kids aged 8 and under [12]. It’s a place where learning and play blend seamlessly through hands-on exhibits designed to engage young minds and create lasting memories [14].

Kid-Friendly Activities

The museum offers eight interactive experiences that transform learning into a fun-filled adventure. In Fox Hollow, kids can step into the shoes of veterinarians, firefighters, and other exciting roles [11][13]. Over at George's Farm, little ones can harvest vegetables, feed animals, and even operate the Corn Factory [11][14].

For water-loving kids, Lil 'Ssippi River Valley features a 28-foot waterplay table complete with a working crane and bridges, letting them explore the dynamics of the Mississippi River [11][14]. The PlayHouse, crafted especially for children 4 and under, includes an alphabet kitchen, a laundry station, and even a virtual pond for imaginative play [11][14].

Creative minds will love the Imagination Studio, where they can dive into art supplies, clay, and building tools to create their own masterpieces [11]. The Russell Dig Zone is perfect for kids who enjoy digging, sifting, and dumping with big trucks, sand, and pea gravel [11]. And for those seeking a physical challenge, the two-story Luckey Climber invites kids to scale its platforms and netting for an exhilarating experience [11][14]. With so many options, the museum guarantees fun for all, whether indoors or outdoors.

Indoor and Outdoor Options

The Family Museum ensures year-round entertainment with its indoor exhibits and an outdoor play area. The outdoor space, featuring seasonal waterplay and hidden structures, comes alive during warmer months. Meanwhile, the indoor exhibits allow kids to move freely between themed zones, ensuring uninterrupted exploration and fun [11][14].

Accessibility and Amenities

The museum’s thoughtful layout is designed to encourage safe, independent exploration, making it easy for parents to supervise multiple children across different activity zones. Reviewers often highlight the engaging play areas and arts and crafts, which are particularly suited for kids aged 2–9 [12]. The space is both interactive and secure, giving families peace of mind while their children immerse themselves in the activities.

Admission Cost (USD)

• Ages 1–59: $10.00
• Under Age 1: Free
• Age 60+: $5.00
• Military (active, dependent, or retired), spouse, and children: $5.00
• EBT cardholders with valid photo ID: $4.00 per person
• Family Museum members: Free

The museum accommodates various payment methods and offers discounts for military families and those using government assistance programs, making it an accessible destination for all.

5. TBK Bank Sports Complex

Located in Bettendorf, Iowa, the TBK Bank Sports Complex spans 75 acres and combines sports and entertainment into one impressive venue. With a 273,000-square-foot indoor arena and a 64,515-square-foot two-story entertainment center, it stands out as one of the largest recreational hubs in the Quad Cities area [17][18]. There's truly something for everyone here.

Kid-Friendly Activities

The complex offers a variety of attractions that cater to all ages. Inside the entertainment center, you'll find an arcade with more than 60 games, a two-story laser tag arena, Pirates Revenge, 32 bowling lanes, and escape rooms perfect for older kids. For families celebrating birthdays, the venue provides party packages designed to make the day unforgettable [15].

Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive indoor facilities, including an 11v11 turf field, eight basketball/volleyball courts, batting cages, and a golf simulator. Outdoors, the complex boasts two lighted full-size turf soccer fields, two full-size grass soccer fields, ten lighted baseball/softball fields, and five sand volleyball courts [16][17].

Indoor and Outdoor Options

Whether you're looking for indoor fun or outdoor sports, the TBK Bank Sports Complex has you covered year-round. Here's a breakdown of its offerings:

This mix of activities ensures the complex appeals to both serious athletes and families just looking for a fun day out.

Accessibility and Amenities

The complex features 1,571 parking spaces, making it easy for families and groups to visit. On-site restaurants and bars provide a variety of dining options, while the Level II Fitness Center offers memberships, including family plans for up to four people (with an additional $10 per month for each extra member). Fitness enthusiasts can also take advantage of InBody 270 scans for $25, child watch services, and discounts for firefighters, EMTs, first responders, police officers, nurses, seniors, students, and corporate partners [20].

"Might possibly be the best thing that has ever come to the Quad Cities. Food, atmosphere and facility are absolutely amazing." – Rod, Bettendorf, IA [18]

Admission Cost (USD)

The TBK Bank Sports Complex operates on a pay-as-you-go system, with activities like bowling, laser tag, arcade games, and escape rooms priced individually [19]. If you're planning a celebration, birthday party packages bundle multiple activities together, offering better value than paying for each activity separately [15].

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6. QC Family Entertainment

Nestled in Moline, Illinois, QC Family Entertainment is an all-indoor destination perfect for families looking for fun regardless of the weather [21]. It complements the Quad Cities' range of family-friendly attractions by offering a dependable, weather-proof option.

Activities for Kids (and Adults, Too)

QC Family Entertainment has something for everyone with its trio of attractions. Families can enjoy classic bowling lanes, which are perfect for all age groups. The arcade games bring out the competitive spirit across generations, while the laser tag arena offers an exciting, team-based activity that gets kids moving. These options blend timeless fun with modern entertainment, ensuring no one is left out.

Year-Round Indoor Fun

Thanks to its climate-controlled environment, this venue provides a reliable escape for play - rain or shine, summer or winter. Families can count on consistent programming and activities every time they visit.

Amenities for a Hassle-Free Visit

Beyond the games and attractions, QC Family Entertainment features a full-service restaurant and bar, making it easy for parents to relax while the kids play. It’s a one-stop destination for stress-free family outings.

Admission Costs (USD)

Pricing is activity-based, with packages designed to fit different needs:

• $9.99 Golf & Games Pass: Available Monday through Friday, this includes miniature golf and arcade games.
• Unlimited Attractions Pass: Available daily for families looking to enjoy all the activities.
• Bowling Special: Lanes are available for $10.
• Birthday Packages: Bundled deals tailored for celebrations.

Whether you're planning a casual day out or a special event, QC Family Entertainment offers plenty of options to suit your family’s schedule and budget.

7. Quad Cities River Bandits at Modern Woodmen Park

Nestled in Davenport, Iowa, Modern Woodmen Park is more than just a ballpark - it's a destination for families seeking a mix of baseball and entertainment. As the fourth-oldest minor league park, it blends the charm of the game with attractions designed to keep kids engaged throughout the event [24].

Kid-Friendly Activities

Modern Woodmen Park goes above and beyond to ensure kids have a blast. Take, for instance, the 110-foot Ferris wheel towering over the left-field wall, offering breathtaking views of the Mississippi River [25]. Or the double-decker carousel, originally from Pier 39 in San Francisco, which welcomes toddlers under 3 when accompanied by an adult [25][23]. Beyond these, there are seven other rides catering to a variety of ages, like the Genesis Kidz Koaster for kids as young as 4, and other fun options such as the Wind Up, Double Play, Frog Hopper, and Screwball - each with specific height and age requirements to ensure everyone’s safety.

The fun doesn’t stop at rides. Families can head to the play area along the right-field line, where kids can enjoy a jumper, rock climbing wall, and speed pitch game [27]. Plus, the River Bandits Kids Club offers fans 12 and under special perks, including four Ferris wheel ride vouchers [22]. On Sundays, young fans can even meet their favorite players during pregame autograph sessions [24].

One of the park’s standout features is a nod to Iowa’s farming roots. Since 2008, field corn is planted along the left-field foul line, growing tall enough by mid-season for players to run through - a playful tribute to a classic baseball moment [25]. These unique touches make Modern Woodmen Park a memorable spot for family outings.

Outdoor Options

Every attraction at the park is designed to take advantage of its scenic location along the Mississippi River. Amusement rides operate during every River Bandits home game, though they may temporarily pause during bad weather, resuming once conditions improve [24]. The right-field area also offers extra outdoor amenities like a hot tub deck and a "tiki village" complete with three tiki bars, a covered lounge, and even a king-sized tiki bed. These features, added in 2008, create a laid-back, family-friendly vibe that sets the park apart.

Accessibility and Amenities

Modern Woodmen Park doesn’t just offer fun - it ensures comfort and convenience for every visitor. With a 4.6/5 rating on TripAdvisor, reviewers frequently highlight its welcoming atmosphere and variety of attractions [26]. As one TripAdvisor reviewer shared:

"Plenty for youngsters to do if they lose interest in the game...Kids enjoyed riding the rides. If you are in the Quad Cities area take in a game. Family fun, exciting action, money well spent." – Ron B, TripAdvisor Reviewer [26]

Parking is easy and affordable at $5.00 per car (credit card only), and the ballpark’s address - 209 S Gaines St, Davenport, IA 52802 - makes it simple to find [24].

Admission Cost (USD)

Modern Woodmen Park is budget-friendly, making it an excellent choice for families. Kids 2 and under get in free if seated on an adult’s lap [29]. On "Two Dollar Tuesdays", general admission tickets cost just $2 [28], while regular season ticket prices typically range from $17 to $25 [30]. Military personnel can enjoy $1 off game day tickets with a valid Military ID, and IHMVCU members can take advantage of buy-one-get-one-free tickets for all 2025 regular season home games starting April 8 [29].

For the rides, families can opt for individual tickets priced between $3 and $6 per ride or go all-in with an All-You-Can-Ride Wristband for $15.00 [23][24]. The River Bandits Kids Club membership, priced at $25 per child, includes four Ferris wheel vouchers and other exclusive perks [22].

8. The Fun Station - Quad Cities

Smack dab in the Quad Cities, The Fun Station is an indoor adventure park that packs 18 attractions under one roof. Rain or shine, families can enjoy year-round entertainment in a climate-controlled setting, making it a go-to spot for weather-proof fun [32].

Kid-Friendly Activities

The Fun Station caters to kids of all ages with attractions designed to keep them active and engaged. For starters, trampoline attractions welcome children as young as 3, offering a safe and energetic way to burn off some steam. Meanwhile, the Play Maze invites explorers of all ages to navigate its twists and turns - just don’t forget your grip socks for safety.

For a bit of variety, younger kids can try their hand at mini bowling for $3 per game, while the arcade section blends classic and modern games for endless entertainment. If you’re looking for something a little more high-tech, the virtual reality experiences are available for kids aged 4 and up at $5 per ride.

One standout activity is axe throwing, but with a twist. Using rubberized mallets instead of sharp blades, this family-friendly version costs $2 per player and provides a safe way for kids to try out this trending activity.

For more adventurous spirits, the climbing walls soar up to 28 feet, and the ropes courses test balance and bravery. Add in mega slick slides and spin zone bumper cars, and you’ve got a lineup of activities guaranteed to keep everyone entertained.

Indoor Options

The Quad Cities location is all about indoor fun, but The Fun Station is gearing up for something bigger. By fall 2025, a new 70,000-square-foot facility will open in Cedar Rapids, boasting 22 attractions and an outdoor patio overlooking a scenic pond [33]. This expansion promises even more entertainment options for families across Iowa.

Accessibility and Amenities

Safety is a top priority at The Fun Station. Activities like climbing walls and ropes courses require closed-toe shoes, while the Play Maze mandates grip socks for all participants. These measures ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Some attractions come with height and weight restrictions to match kids with activities suited to their age and abilities. Clear guidelines are provided for each activity, making it easier for parents to choose the right options for their children.

Admission Cost (USD)

The Fun Station offers pricing plans to fit different budgets and schedules. The Ultimate Ticket at $39.99 gives full access to all attractions, while the Jump & Climb Ticket at $26.99 focuses on trampolines and climbing activities. For shorter visits, the Jump Station Ticket at $19.99 provides limited access, and toddlers aged 3 and under can join the fun for just $9.99 with a Toddler Ticket.

Special deals sweeten the pot throughout the week:

• $5 Mondays: Individual attractions are $5 each, or enjoy all attractions for $15.
• Family Fun Night Thursdays: After 4:00 PM, attractions drop to $7 each.
• Family Pizza Package: On Thursdays, grab a large one-topping pizza and four drinks for $24.99.

Grip socks are required for certain activities and cost $4.50 per pair. Keep in mind, there’s a 3% surcharge on credit card transactions, so paying with cash can save you a bit. Gift cards and memberships are also available, and memberships can be used at other Fun Station locations, including Cedar Rapids and Dubuque [31].

Quick Comparison Table

Here’s a quick look at key details to help you plan the ultimate family outing. Use this table to compare destinations and find the perfect fit for your crew.

Quick Highlights:

• Indoor Options for Rainy Days: The Putnam Museum, Family Museum, QC Family Entertainment, and The Fun Station are great choices when the weather doesn’t cooperate.
• Affordable Choices: Many destinations combine reasonably priced admission with free on-site parking, making them easy on the wallet.
• Toddler-Friendly Fun: The Family Museum caters specifically to children aged 2–12, while other spots also offer activities for younger kids.
• Convenient Parking: Most venues provide free on-site parking, perfect for families juggling strollers and other gear. The only exception is Modern Woodmen Park, which has paid parking nearby.
• Dining Options: Whether it’s a snack bar, café, or nearby restaurant, every destination has food covered, so you won’t need to pack a lunch.

Use these insights to narrow down the best options for your family’s next adventure!

Conclusion

The Quad Cities region offers a variety of attractions, from scenic wildlife parks to hands-on museums, providing something for visitors of all ages. It’s a place where education meets entertainment, with engaging indoor activities and interactive exhibits that spark curiosity and keep the energy alive. And the best part? It’s all surprisingly easy on the wallet.

With free parking, reasonable admission prices, and plenty of convenient dining options, the Quad Cities make planning a day trip both affordable and stress-free. Whether you're looking for a quick family outing or a full day of exploration, this area has you covered.

To make planning even simpler, check out QC Day Trips - a user-friendly directory designed to help you discover family-friendly attractions in the area. It’s your go-to resource for finding exciting destinations and staying updated on new opportunities.

So why wait? Dive into the natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture of the Quad Cities. Every trip here feels like a special adventure waiting to be discovered.

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