ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS (September 2, 2026) — The Quad City Botanical Center is allowing guests to pay what they want for admission to the gardens Friday, September 4 through Sunday, September 6. By giving guests the chance to name their price of admission, we hope to allow every community member a chance to experience all the summer gardens have to offer.
The public is welcome to visit during general admission hours September 4 through September 6. Standard general admission is $10 for adults sixteen and older, $7 for youth ages two through fifteen, and toddlers under age two receive free admission. Members always get in free.
Summer highlights at the Botanical Center include the adventurous water play area in the Children’s Garden, the Garden Glass exhibit, with glass art by local artists at Hot Glass, colorful perennial and wildflower prairie gardens that attract butterflies, a whimsical fairy wonderland called Pat’s Garden, reflection ponds, and an indoor Tropical Sun Garden with a waterfall.
Visit the lobby to view the monarch caterpillar enclosures, where a group of monarchs are currently in chrysalis, preparing to emerge as butterflies.
The garden train railway exhibit will be open, with trains running on Saturday and Sunday of Pay What You Want, weather permitting.
Ask in guest services at the entrance about scavenger hunt lists. Most guests enjoy a visit of one hour. If visiting the Children’s Garden, most guests spend one to two hours interacting with the water feature.
HOURS
Monday–Saturday 10AM–5PM
Sunday 11AM-5PM
DAILY GENERAL ADMISSION
FREE for Members
$10.00 Adults (sixteen-plus)
$7.00 Youth (ages two through fifteen)
FREE for Toddlers (under two)
DISCOUNTED ADMISSION
Senior (65+): $9.00
Military: $9.00
College Student: $5.00
Museums for All: $2.00
Must show appropriate ID where applicable to receive discount: Military ID, Student ID, EBT/WIC Card
Check your local libraries for passes to explore local attractions, including the QC Botanical Center.
Enjoy FREE general admission all year long as a member: qcgardens.com/memberships.
