Save This Summer With 17 Quick And Cheap Vacation Ideas

We are all excited for summer, but with the heat rising it looks like the price of things is as well. Let's save up with these awesome family vacations near Iowa.

Budget Trips are great if you can do them right.

From adventures in Iowa, Illinois, or Wisconsin we have something for everyone. Adult getaways and family vacations alike.

Things to Do Near The Quad Cities

A Ride On The River

From river taxis to a celebration on the Belle, a ride on the Mississippi is a great way to stay cool, have fun, and of course stay in the Quad Cities this weekend. If you want to avoid all that driving, this is the perfect event. Learn more about the Celebration Belle.

Rhythm City Casino Resort

This one is for the adults obviously, but it's quick and fun. A perfect trip for you and that special someone. Rhythm City Casino Resort is a casino and resort located in Davenport, Iowa. It's basically right down the road! This makes for a great weekend getaway.

Wild Rose Casino & Hotel

Another one for the adults, but a great getaway for all of those who work, and deserve some time off. Learn more here, and go win some money in Clinton.

Isle Casino Hotel

Just going to throw in this casino as well, that way you know you have options. You can learn more here.

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The Fun Station

Located on 14th Ave in Eldridge Iowa this spot has been adding new attractions since its opening. 2022 has already seen some of these new additions, but more are on the way. It is a great spot for kids and has some awesome 4th of July Specials. You can learn more here.

Off Shore Hotel & Resort

Everyone has been talking about this one after it blew up online. Just over an hour away from the QCA, you can find it nestled right on the Mississippi River in Bellevue Iowa. Altogether it's a hotel, bar and grill, event center, and campsite. You can learn more here.

Grizzly Jack's Grand Bear Resort

Just under an hour and a half from Davenport, this waterpark is also a quick drive from the QCA. When you look up great waterparks near the Quad Cities, this one almost always shows up. According to best waterparks.org, this is one of the best spots to bring the family.

Field Of Dreams

Everyone knows it, why not go see it? The Field of Dreams is located In Dyersville Iowa. Only an hour and a half away from the QCA.

Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark

Just over an hour away from Davenport, this spot should be less than an hour and a half for almost anywhere in the Quad Cities. Located at 350 Bell Street, Dubuque, IA 52001. This spot is a 25,000-square-foot indoor waterpark that offers a great time for the kids, and families alike.

Various

Drive-In Theaters

These theaters have seen a boom since 2020, and give a lot for how cheap they are. Three locations near the Quad Cities are,

Blue Grass Drive-In: Located at 774 W Mayne St, Blue Grass, IA 52726.

61 Drive-In Theater: Located at 1228 US-61, Delmar, IA 52037.

The Midway Drive-In: Located at 91 Palmyra Road Sterling, Illinois 61021.

Galena Illinois

This one is for the history buffs wanting to make a pretty quick drive over to a well-known spot. You can eat great food, walk with goats, AND check out the home of Ulysses S. Grant! (Union general, and president of the USA)

Lost Island Waterpark

From my exact location in Davenport, this spot is 3 minutes under 2 hours away. For some, it may be a bit over 2 hours, but this spot is amazing. Located at 2225 E Shaulis Rd, Waterloo, IA 50701. It is one of the best waterparks in the Midwest. (See Below) This spot also now has a fully functional theme park that adds more fun for your weekend!

Adventureland

Just over two hours away in Altoona Iowa, Adventureland is much more than just a day trip, with a theme park, and waterpark it's the perfect place to spend two days, and right next to the park in their Adventureland hotel. There is also a casino nearby as well.

Google Maps

Chicago

I'm sure you saw this one coming. Not too bad of a drive, and the fireworks are sure to be amazing! You can learn more here. These are a few well-priced spots you can stay at as well.

Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown

Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown South Loop

Hyatt Place Chicago Midway Airport

Wisconsin Dells

Let's get the obvious one out of the way first! We all know about the Dells, but this spot is perfect for a week-long trip, or just a quick weekend stop. It has countless different indoor activities, and many of the parks offer great deals for families. Here are a few:

Lake Geneva Wisconsin

This spot is just over three hours away, but it's considered one of the most beautiful spots in America. It's the closest spot to the QCA that is on the list of most beautiful locations in America. You can see that list and information here.

Was that 17 great vacations or day trip spot? eh probably, but who cares we're going on vacation! Have fun and stay safe!