Fun In Iowa City: Kid-Friendly Activities

Welcome to Iowa City, a lively and vibrant city that offers a wide range of fun and exciting activities for both kids and adults. Whether you are a local resident or just visiting, you will find endless entertainment options that are perfect for the whole family. From interactive museums and outdoor adventures to unique festivals and events, Iowa City has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore some of the best kid-friendly activities in Iowa City, guaranteed to create lasting memories and bring smiles to the faces of children of all ages. So, get ready to embark on a thrilling journey of fun and adventure in the heart of Iowa City!

Iowa Children's Museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	The Iowa Children's Museum
Type	Children's museum in Coralville, Iowa
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 959
Address	1451 Coral Ridge Ave, Coralville, IA 52241
Phone	(319) 625-6255
Hours	Monday - Closed Tuesday - 10 AM–6 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–6 PM Thursday - 10 AM–6 PM Friday - 10 AM–6 PM Saturday - 10 AM–6 PM Sunday - 10 AM–6 PM
Profiles

The Iowa Children's Museum is a fun and exciting destination for kids in Iowa City. This interactive museum offers a wide range of activities and exhibits that are both educational and entertaining.

One of the main highlights of the museum is the Explore It! exhibit, which is designed for children ages 2-10. This exhibit features a variety of hands-on activities that promote creativity, problem-solving, and imaginative play. Kids can build structures with giant foam blocks, explore the sensory wall, play musical instruments, and much more.

Another popular exhibit is the PlayHouse exhibit, which is specifically designed for children ages 0-3. This space provides a safe and engaging environment for infants and toddlers to explore and discover. There are soft play areas, a sensory wall, and interactive toys that help stimulate early development.

The STEM Studio is another must-visit area of the museum. This exhibit focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math and offers hands-on activities and experiments for kids of all ages. Children can learn about circuits, gravity, magnets, and more while having fun and engaging with the exhibits.

The museum also offers a variety of rotating exhibits, which means that each visit can be a unique experience. Past exhibits have included topics such as dinosaurs, outer space, and animals. These exhibits often feature interactive displays, life-sized models, and educational information to create a memorable and engaging learning experience for children.

In addition to the exhibits, the Iowa Children's Museum also hosts a variety of special events and programs throughout the year. These include storytime sessions, art workshops, science demonstrations, and more. These events provide additional opportunities for kids to learn and explore in a fun and interactive way.

Overall, the Iowa Children's Museum is a fantastic destination for kids in Iowa City. It offers a wide range of exhibits and activities that are both educational and entertaining. Whether your child is interested in building, exploring, science, or art, there is something for everyone at this museum. It's the perfect place for kids to learn, play, and have fun in Iowa City.

Iowa City Farmers Market

Characteristic	Description
Name	Iowa City Farmers Market
Type	Farmers' market in Iowa City, Iowa
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 397
Address	405 E Washington St, Iowa City, IA 52240
Phone	(319) 356-5100
Hours	Monday - 8 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 8 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 8 AM–5 PM Thursday - 8 AM–5 PM Friday - 8 AM–5 PM Saturday - Closed Sunday - Closed
Profiles

The Iowa City Farmers Market is a fun and family-friendly activity that kids will enjoy. This market takes place every Saturday from May to October in downtown Iowa City. It is a vibrant and bustling event that offers a wide variety of goods and activities for kids of all ages.

One of the main attractions of the Iowa City Farmers Market is the fresh produce and locally made products. Kids will have the opportunity to see and taste a wide variety of fruits and vegetables that they may not have encountered before. They can learn about different types of produce and how they are grown. They may even discover new favorite foods that they can incorporate into their meals at home.

In addition to fresh produce, the market also offers a variety of arts and crafts vendors. Kids can explore the colorful booths and discover unique handmade items. They can even try their hand at making their own crafts by participating in interactive workshops and activities.

Another highlight of the Iowa City Farmers Market is the live entertainment. There are often musicians and performers who provide lively and engaging shows for children. Kids can enjoy music, dancing, and even interactive storytelling. These performances add to the festive atmosphere of the market and create a fun and enjoyable experience for kids and their families.

The Iowa City Farmers Market also prioritizes education and community engagement. There are often educational demonstrations and workshops that teach kids about sustainable agriculture, gardening, and environmental stewardship. These activities help kids understand the importance of supporting local farmers and eating fresh, healthy foods. They can also learn about the benefits of buying locally and reducing their carbon footprint.

Furthermore, the market offers a wide variety of food vendors, selling everything from freshly brewed coffee to delicious baked goods. Kids can indulge in tasty treats while exploring the market. There are also picnic areas where families can sit and enjoy their food while soaking up the lively atmosphere.

Overall, the Iowa City Farmers Market is a fantastic destination for families with kids. It offers a wide variety of activities that are not only fun but also educational. Kids can learn about the importance of local food and sustainability while enjoying delicious treats and lively entertainment. So, next time you are looking for a fun activity in Iowa City for your kids, be sure to visit the Iowa City Farmers Market.

Coral Ridge Mall - featuring an indoor ice skating rink and a children's play area

Characteristic	Description
Name	The Rink at Coral Ridge
Type	Ice skating rink in Coralville, Iowa
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.4 / 336
Address	1451 Coral Ridge Ave, Coralville, IA 52241
Phone	(319) 774-5920
Profiles

If you're looking for a fun day out with the family in Iowa City, then look no further than the Coral Ridge Mall. This one-stop destination offers a range of activities and attractions that are sure to keep kids of all ages entertained.

One of the highlights of the mall is the indoor ice skating rink. Whether your little ones are experienced skaters or just starting out, they'll love gliding across the ice in this spacious and well-maintained rink. There are ample skate rentals available, so you don't have to worry about bringing your own equipment. Skating sessions are held throughout the day, making it easy to fit in a visit to the rink no matter what your schedule is like.

For younger children, the mall also boasts a fantastic children's play area. This dedicated space is filled with colorful and interactive play equipment that is designed to stimulate their imagination and keep them active. From climbing structures and slides to interactive games and puzzles, there's something for every child to enjoy. The play area is conveniently located near various seating areas, allowing parents to relax while keeping an eye on their little ones.

When it's time for a break, the Coral Ridge Mall offers a wide range of dining options to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. From fast food favorites like McDonald's and Subway to sit-down restaurants like Buffalo Wild Wings and Red Lobster, there's something to suit every taste. You can enjoy a leisurely meal with the family or grab a quick bite before heading back to the fun.

In addition to ice skating and the children's play area, Coral Ridge Mall offers a variety of other entertainment options. There's a movie theater that shows the latest releases, perfect for a family movie night or a rainy day activity. The mall also hosts regular events and activities, such as live performances and seasonal celebrations, so there's always something new and exciting to look forward to.

With its indoor ice skating rink, children's play area, dining options, and more, Coral Ridge Mall is the perfect destination for a fun day out with the kids in Iowa City. Whether you're looking to beat the heat in the summer or escape the cold in the winter, this mall offers a range of activities that are sure to keep the whole family entertained. So grab your skates and head to Coral Ridge Mall for a day of fun and excitement!

Terry Trueblood Recreation Area - offers opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and bird-watching

Terry Trueblood Recreation Area - Fun in Iowa City for Kids

Iowa City is a vibrant city with plenty of recreational activities for kids. One such fun-filled destination is Terry Trueblood Recreation Area. Located just south of downtown Iowa City, Terry Trueblood Recreation Area offers a wide range of outdoor activities for children and families to enjoy.

One of the main attractions of Terry Trueblood Recreation Area is its beautiful and scenic hiking trails. The area features several well-maintained trails that wind through the woods and meander along the banks of the Iowa River. These trails provide the perfect opportunity for children to explore nature and get some exercise at the same time. Along the way, kids can spot native birds and wildlife, adding a fun and educational element to their adventure.

For families who love a good picnic, Terry Trueblood Recreation Area has numerous picnic areas with tables and grills. These spots make for a great place to relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. Children can also play on the nearby playgrounds, which feature swings, slides, and climbing structures. This allows kids to burn off some energy and have fun while parents prepare the picnic.

Another exciting activity for kids at Terry Trueblood Recreation Area is bird-watching. The area is home to a variety of bird species, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Kids can bring their binoculars and spot birds such as woodpeckers, blue jays, and cardinals. They can also learn about different bird species and their habitats, further enhancing their understanding of the natural world.

In addition to these activities, Terry Trueblood Recreation Area hosts various events and programs throughout the year that cater to children. From nature walks to educational workshops, there is always something happening to engage young minds and keep them entertained. These events provide a wonderful opportunity for kids to learn about the environment, conservation, and wildlife in an interactive and enjoyable way.

Overall, Terry Trueblood Recreation Area in Iowa City is a fantastic destination for families looking for fun activities for their kids. With its hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and bird-watching opportunities, children are sure to have a memorable time exploring the great outdoors. Whether it's a weekend outing or a summer day trip, Terry Trueblood Recreation Area offers something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

Ashton House Museum

Located in Iowa City, Ashton House Museum is a hidden gem for kids and families looking for a fun and educational experience. Filled with artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Iowa, this museum offers a variety of activities and displays that are sure to captivate young minds.

One of the main attractions at Ashton House Museum is the interactive exhibits. Kids can explore different rooms and learn about how people lived in the past. They can try on period clothing, play with historic toys, and even participate in hands-on activities. This allows children to get a hands-on experience with history, making it more relatable and engaging.

Another highlight of the museum is the collection of artifacts and objects on display. From Native American artifacts to early settlers' tools, children can see up close the items used by people in the past. This can ignite curiosity and spark conversations about the history of Iowa City and its residents.

In addition to the exhibits, Ashton House Museum also offers educational programs and workshops for kids. These programs cover a wide range of topics, including art, science, and history. From pottery-making workshops to science experiments, there is something for every child’s interest. These programs are designed to be both educational and fun, allowing kids to learn while having a great time.

For families visiting Ashton House Museum, there are also special events that take place throughout the year. These events often include live performances, demonstrations, and hands-on activities. They provide the perfect opportunity for children to not only learn about history but also see it come to life before their eyes.

One of the unique features of Ashton House Museum is its beautiful gardens. Kids can explore the gardens and learn about different plants and flowers. They can also enjoy picnics or simply run around and play in the outdoor space. The gardens provide a tranquil and relaxing setting that is perfect for families to unwind and enjoy some quality time together.

Overall, Ashton House Museum is a fantastic place for kids to have fun and learn about the history of Iowa City. With its interactive exhibits, educational programs, and special events, children are sure to have a memorable and enriching experience. Whether you are a local resident or visiting Iowa City, be sure to plan a visit to Ashton House Museum for a day of family-friendly fun.

Iowa City Public Library - hosts various kid-friendly events and storytimes

Iowa City is a city in the state of Iowa known for its vibrant cultural scene and family-friendly activities. If you're visiting Iowa City with kids, there are plenty of fun things to do that are sure to keep them entertained. One of the top attractions for kids in Iowa City is the Iowa City Public Library, which regularly hosts various kid-friendly events and storytimes.

The Iowa City Public Library is a hub for children's programming in the city. They offer a wide range of activities that cater to different age groups and interests. One of the most popular events at the library is the storytime sessions. These sessions feature librarians reading engaging and interactive stories to children, helping to foster a love for reading and storytelling from an early age.

In addition to storytimes, the library also hosts craft workshops for kids. These workshops encourage children to explore their creativity and make their own artwork. From painting and drawing to collage-making and jewelry-making, there is always something exciting happening at the library to spark the imagination of young ones.

For older kids, the Iowa City Public Library offers various educational programs that are both fun and informative. They often invite special guests such as authors, scientists, and artists to give presentations and workshops. These events not only entertain but also inspire children to learn new things and explore their interests.

The Iowa City Public Library also provides access to a vast collection of children's books, movies, and music. Kids can easily find their favorite stories and characters, as well as discover new ones. The library's friendly staff is always available to help kids and parents find the perfect book for their interests and reading level.

Aside from the regular programming, the Iowa City Public Library also hosts special events for kids throughout the year. These events may include themed parties, puppet shows, live performances, and even visits from popular characters like superheroes or princesses. These events are a great way for families to bond and create lasting memories together.

In conclusion, the Iowa City Public Library is a fantastic destination for families with kids. With its wide array of children's programs, including storytimes, craft workshops, and educational presentations, there is always something fun and engaging happening for kids at the library. Whether you're a resident of Iowa City or just passing through, be sure to check out the Iowa City Public Library and take advantage of the wonderful opportunities it provides for kids to have a great time while learning and exploring.

Frequently asked questions