Money Smarts Blog

Summer in the Quad-Cities is packed with possibilities. Festivals, farmers’ markets, outdoor concerts, riverfront strolls, and sunny days meant for making memories. But between vacations, BBQs, and kids being out of school, it’s also a season where expenses can pile up fast.

The good news? You don’t have to spend big to have a summer full of fun. Here are some simple, local-friendly ways to soak up the season and keep your budget in check.

1. Plan budget-friendly cookouts

Hosting a summer cookout doesn’t have to break the bank. Buy in bulk from local stores, plan potluck-style gatherings where everyone brings a dish, and opt for low-cost protein options like burgers or brats from local butchers. Check out our recent blog on how to Save Dough on Your Groceries.

Bonus tip: Aldi and Hy-Vee often run summer deals. Watch those flyers!

2. Take advantage of free & low-cost events

The Q-C is rich in free summer fun. Keep an eye out for:

• Backwater Gamblers Water Ski Shows – fun and interactive water ski show on the banks of the Rock River; every Wednesday and Sunday
• Movie in the Park: Moana 2 – join Moana and Maui for a brand-new ocean adventure filled with music, magic, and self-discovery at area parks in Kewanee, Ill., DeWitt, Iowa and Galesburg, Ill.  
• Freight House Farmers’ Market – great for cheap eats, live music, and supporting local vendors
• Figge Art Museum – culture without the cost; free admission days the first full weekend of every month
• Mercado on Fifth – an outdoor, summer night market featuring taco trucks, live Latin music, vendor booths from a variety of local crafters, and retailers and plenty of kids’ activities; every Friday during the summer
• QC River Bandits – baseball games, ballpark snacks, riverfront views, and Friday night fireworks at the “Best Minor League Ballpark”; plus members get BOGO tickets

You can find weekly event listings on local sites like Visit Quad Cities or through community Facebook pages.

3. Cool down without running up the AC bill

Summer utilities can spike if you're running the air conditioning nonstop. Try these instead:

• Use fans and keep blinds closed during the day
• Open windows at night for cool breezes
• Spend hot afternoons at the pool. IHMVC members get BOGO Free Swim to area pools, like Whitewater Junction in Rock Island, Annie Whittenmyer and Fejervary pools in Davenport, DeWitt Aquatic Center, Riverside Riverslide in Moline, and East Moline Municipal. It’s fun, affordable ways to stay cool!
• Stay cool out there – literally! Make sure your A/C is running like a champ, and don’t forget: IHMVCU members get 10% off services at O’Dell’s Heating & Air.

4. Try “staycations” & day trips

No need to travel far to get that vacation feel. Explore:

• Channel Cat Water Taxi – Hop aboard for a breezy ride along the Mississippi. Perfect for a fun, local adventure that feels like a getaway.
• Credit Island Park – Explore historic beauty where riverside trails, wildlife, and open green space make it the perfect spot for a laid-back local escape.
• Niabi Zoo – Spend the day getting up close with animals from around the world. An unforgettable local adventure for all ages, no passport required.
• Day trips to Maquoketa Caves or Dubuque’s Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium – budget-friendly adventures whether you're exploring underground caverns or diving into hands-on river history and wildlife.
• Adventureland Park - Thrill-seekers and families alike can enjoy roller coasters, water rides, and classic carnival fun. All just a short drive away for a full day of excitement. And IHMVCU members get discounted tickets!

5. Track spending with a summer budget

• Set a summer-specific budget for food, entertainment, and travel. Even a simple list in your phone can help you stay mindful of your spending. Better yet, meet with one of our financial coaches! They’re FREE for EVERYONE and can help you establish and reach your financial goals.

Summer memories don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With a little planning and some Quad Cities know-how, you can have a blast and stay within your budget.

Summer in the Quad-Cities is packed with possibilities. Festivals, farmers’ markets, outdoor concerts, riverfront strolls, and sunny days meant for making memories. But between vacations, BBQs, and kids being out of school, it’s also a season where expenses can pile up fast.

The good news? You don’t have to spend big to have a summer full of fun. Here are some simple, local-friendly ways to soak up the season and keep your budget in check.

1. Plan budget-friendly cookouts

Hosting a summer cookout doesn’t have to break the bank. Buy in bulk from local stores, plan potluck-style gatherings where everyone brings a dish, and opt for low-cost protein options like burgers or brats from local butchers. Check out our recent blog on how to Save Dough on Your Groceries.

Bonus tip: Aldi and Hy-Vee often run summer deals. Watch those flyers!

2. Take advantage of free & low-cost events

The Q-C is rich in free summer fun. Keep an eye out for:

• Backwater Gamblers Water Ski Shows – fun and interactive water ski show on the banks of the Rock River; every Wednesday and Sunday
• Movie in the Park: Moana 2 – join Moana and Maui for a brand-new ocean adventure filled with music, magic, and self-discovery at area parks in Kewanee, Ill., DeWitt, Iowa and Galesburg, Ill.  
• Freight House Farmers’ Market – great for cheap eats, live music, and supporting local vendors
• Figge Art Museum – culture without the cost; free admission days the first full weekend of every month
• Mercado on Fifth – an outdoor, summer night market featuring taco trucks, live Latin music, vendor booths from a variety of local crafters, and retailers and plenty of kids’ activities; every Friday during the summer
• QC River Bandits – baseball games, ballpark snacks, riverfront views, and Friday night fireworks at the “Best Minor League Ballpark”; plus members get BOGO tickets

You can find weekly event listings on local sites like Visit Quad Cities or through community Facebook pages.

3. Cool down without running up the AC bill

Summer utilities can spike if you're running the air conditioning nonstop. Try these instead:

• Use fans and keep blinds closed during the day
• Open windows at night for cool breezes
• Spend hot afternoons at the pool. IHMVC members get BOGO Free Swim to area pools, like Whitewater Junction in Rock Island, Annie Whittenmyer and Fejervary pools in Davenport, DeWitt Aquatic Center, Riverside Riverslide in Moline, and East Moline Municipal. It’s fun, affordable ways to stay cool!
• Stay cool out there – literally! Make sure your A/C is running like a champ, and don’t forget: IHMVCU members get 10% off services at O’Dell’s Heating & Air.

4. Try “staycations” & day trips

No need to travel far to get that vacation feel. Explore:

• Channel Cat Water Taxi – Hop aboard for a breezy ride along the Mississippi. Perfect for a fun, local adventure that feels like a getaway.
• Credit Island Park – Explore historic beauty where riverside trails, wildlife, and open green space make it the perfect spot for a laid-back local escape.
• Niabi Zoo – Spend the day getting up close with animals from around the world. An unforgettable local adventure for all ages, no passport required.
• Day trips to Maquoketa Caves or Dubuque’s Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium – budget-friendly adventures whether you're exploring underground caverns or diving into hands-on river history and wildlife.
• Adventureland Park - Thrill-seekers and families alike can enjoy roller coasters, water rides, and classic carnival fun. All just a short drive away for a full day of excitement. And IHMVCU members get discounted tickets!

5. Track spending with a summer budget

• Set a summer-specific budget for food, entertainment, and travel. Even a simple list in your phone can help you stay mindful of your spending. Better yet, meet with one of our financial coaches! They’re FREE for EVERYONE and can help you establish and reach your financial goals.

Summer memories don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With a little planning and some Quad Cities know-how, you can have a blast and stay within your budget.