Things To Do With Kids In Iowa City

Hey there, fellow parents! Ever found yourself in Iowa City, wondering how to keep the little ones entertained? Well, you've come to the right place. I'm here to spill the beans on some awesome things to do with kids in this charming city. So, grab a coffee, get comfy, and let's dive in!

Petting Zoo Fun at the Iowa Children's Museum

First things first, let's talk about the Iowa Children's Museum. This place is like a playground for your kid's imagination. They've got a whole floor dedicated to animals, with a petting zoo that's just begging for cuddles. My little one, Lily, loves it there. Last time we went, she spent what felt like hours trying to teach a goat how to play peekaboo. It was adorable, and the goat seemed to enjoy the game too!

But that's not all, folks. This museum is a treasure trove of interactive exhibits. From building blocks to water tables, there's something for every age and interest. And the best part? It's all hands-on, so you can join in the fun too. Just remember to leave your inner adult at the door and let your inner child run wild!

Storytime at the Iowa City Public Library

Now, if you're looking for a quiet morning activity, the Iowa City Public Library is a gem. Every week, they host storytime sessions that are perfect for little bookworms. My husband, Tom, took our son, Max, to one recently. They sat cross-legged on the floor, surrounded by other kids and their parents, listening to tales of talking animals and magical adventures. Max was captivated, and Tom even admitted he enjoyed it too. Who knows, you might discover your new favorite children's author!

And here's a little secret: after storytime, you can explore the library's kids' section. It's like a mini wonderland, with books, puzzles, and even a play area. Just try not to get lost in the pages yourself. We all know how tempting those grown-up books can be!

Top 10 Fun Activities To Do With Kids In Iowa City | QuartzMountain

Nature's Playground at Lake Macbride State Park

Alright, let's talk about the great outdoors. Iowa City might be a city, but it's not short on nature. Lake Macbride State Park is just a hop, skip, and a jump away, and it's a nature lover's paradise. Pack a picnic, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for a day of fun.

Lily and Max love the playground there. It's not your average jungle gym - it's a wooden fortress, complete with slides, swings, and even a suspension bridge. Tom and I have been known to join in the fun, trying to keep up with their boundless energy. It's a great workout, if nothing else!

But the fun doesn't stop at the playground. There are hiking trails aplenty, perfect for little explorers. We like to make a game of it, seeing who can spot the most interesting leaves, rocks, or birds. And if you're feeling really adventurous, you can rent canoes or paddleboards and hit the lake. Just remember to keep an eye on the little ones - safety first, folks!

Top 10 Fun Activities To Do With Kids In Iowa City | QuartzMountain

Ice Cream Heaven at The Ice Cream Social

Now, I don't know about you, but I believe every day should end with ice cream. And luckily for us, Iowa City agrees. The Ice Cream Social is a local institution, serving up scoops of happiness in every flavor imaginable. From classic vanilla to unique concoctions like lavender honey and goat cheese (yes, you read that right), there's something for everyone.

Last time we were there, Lily decided she wanted to try every single flavor. I'm pretty sure she thought she was going to turn into a human ice cream sundae. But hey, it's all about the memories, right? And I'll never forget the look on her face as she took her first lick of 'Dirt' - a scoop of chocolate ice cream with a fudge 'dirt' swirl and Oreo 'crumbles'. It was priceless.

So there you have it, folks. Iowa City might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think 'family fun', but it's got a lot to offer. From museums to libraries, parks to ice cream parlors, there's something for every age and interest. So next time you find yourself in the Hawkeye State, give these places a try. Your kids will thank you, and you might just have a blast yourself. Happy exploring!