8 Pandemic Friendly Spring Break Activities in the Iowa City Area

Spring Break is on the way! It seems almost cliche to say, but — like so many other things in the past 12 months — it’s going to be different this year.

This year won’t have as many beach vacations, or trips to the water park, or even trips at all. My family, like many others, are still sticking pretty close to home and away from crowds. But that doesn’t mean that we can’t have fun while the kids are out of school!

Be sure to check for any current COVID-19 restrictions before you head out and don’t forget your mask!

8 Pandemic Friendly Spring Break Activities in the Iowa City Area


Photo: 8 Pandemic Friendly Spring Break Activities in the Iowa City Area


Go for a hike

The Iowa City area is home to many wonderful parks and trails. Spring break is a great excuse to try one you haven’t visited yet — including hiking paths near, but outside, of Iowa City!

Go for a bike ride

It’s time to bust those bikes out of the garage! Fill the airs with tires and gets some grease on the chains. Take a spin around your neighborhood or check out a destination park. Try the ramps and other features at Woodpecker Single track.

Explore your neighborhood

The Iowa City area is home to many unique neighborhoods with parks and nearby businesses. What’s in your area? Make a map of the places you find!

Eat local

Many restaurants are re-opening outdoor dining as the weather warms. Eat outside or order carry-out from a local favorite or try one you haven’t had before. You can always eat at home and then go out for ice cream, too!

Create something

Try the Play Packs from the Iowa Children’s Museum for hands on learning. Or channel your inner artist with a Take and Make paint kit from Big Picture Gallery and Studio or a “to go” ceramic kit from Renee’s Ceramic Cafe.

Movie night

Beloved local movie theater, FilmScene, offers virtual screenings and a to-go popcorn pack that also includes you-pick candy and soda. Bonus: a portion of the sales from those goodie-packs support local non-profits!

Day trip

Take a simple road trip to destinations like Des Moines, Dubuque, the Quad Cities, Decorah, Maquoketa Caves, or Backbone State Park. These are all an easy drive from Iowa City.


So, what are you doing for spring break? Share more ideas in the comments!

Sarah Bengtson
Sarah is a proud Iowa native who currently lives in North Liberty with her husband and 2 sons. She grew up in rural Benton county and moved to the Iowa City area in 2005 to attend graduate school at the University of Iowa in Physical Therapy. Now she balances raising two growing boys with a work as a pediatric physical therapist. Outside of work and family, Sarah loves music, playing her cello, running, baking, crochet, church activities, and cheering for the Hawkeyes and the Minnesota Vikings.

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