Top 24 Things To Do In Coralville, Iowa

things to do in Coralville IA
Herine
Herine 
Updated
| 10 min read

Pack a bag and head to Coralville, which is a city suburb in Johnson County, Iowa. It got its name from the limestone along Iowa River in which coral fossils were found. In 1864, samples of these fossilized corals were presented in a lecture by Louis Agassiz at the University of Iowa which inspired the locals to give this city its name. Coralville offers several sightseeing opportunities in Iowa that will be worth your visit. Have fun with your kids at Iowa Children’s Museum which features interactive educational exhibits. S.T. Morrison Park offers a day of relaxation and is also the location of Coralville Community Aquatic Center. If interested in archaeological sites, explore the Devonian Fossil Gorge. Let your love for cars take you to Antique Car Museum of Iowa where you will see displays of vintage cars and transportation exhibits.

For accommodation, Coralville provides several options for Airbnb vacation rentals. But if you’re inclined to traditional yet refreshing stays, the hotels with pools in Iowa City are your best bet for nearby hideaways. To have a fun-filled excursion, scroll down to find out more about the top things to do in Coralville, Iowa.

1. Marvel at vintage cars at Antique Car Museum of Iowa

Who can guess the make, model, and year of this car?

Posted by Antique Car Museum of Iowa on Saturday, 20 August 2016

Learning about cars is always interesting and fun. Visit this museum which takes pride in enlightening you on the history of transportation. Displayed in a 28,000-square foot (2601 square meter) showroom are over 90 cars manufactured between the years 1899 to mid-1970. On-site are also a Skelly gas station and an Abernathy Boys exhibit. Admire the vintage cars in their original state which will take you through the evolution of cars to what we have now. Get gift items such as car-related memorabilia, t-shirts, and hats from their gift shop to remind you of this unique experience.

Antique Car Museum of Iowa

Address: Xtreme Arena, 200 E 9th St, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

Website: Antique Car Museum of Iowa

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 5 USD

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2. Take a leisurely stroll along Iowa River Landing Sculpture Walk

"Iowa Blue: The Urbane Chicken" by artist Amber O'Harrow sits in her new home on Ponseti Way after being moved one block.

Posted by City of Coralville, Iowa Government on Thursday, 21 September 2017

On a bright and sunny day, enjoy walking along Iowa River Landing Sculpture Walk. See the 11 permanent sculptures installed in various points along the stretch. The sculptures are made by different Iowa artists and are inspired by works from Iowa Writer’s Library. Enjoy the surrounding scenery of the beautiful vegetation as you walk in the trails. Not only will you be keeping fit but also taking amazing photos with the beautiful sculptures as your back drop. This is definitely an exciting way to spend your day.

Iowa River Landing Sculpture Walk

Address: 209 E 10th St, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

Website: Iowa River Landing Sculpture Walk

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3. Catch a live performance at Coralville Center for the Performing Arts

100 students were on the stage tonight playing the 1812 Overture.

Posted by Coralville Center for the Performing Arts on Tuesday, 24 January 2012

Experience the thrill that comes with watching a live performance in a theater. Coralville Center for the Performing Arts has a seat capacity of 472. It also features a 38-foot (11.6 meters) wide stage and state-of-the-art lighting and sound system. The ambiance fully immerses you into the live performance. Choose from a variety of performances including musicals and plays, orchestra concerts, and solo recitals. As you enjoy the experience, get to also learn about local culture from the diverse performances.

Coralville Center for the Performing Arts

Address: 1301 5th St, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

Website: Coralville Center for the Performing Arts

Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 12pm - 4pm (closed on Mon & Sat - Sun)

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4. Have fun with your kids at The Iowa Children's Museum

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by The Iowa Children's Museum on Wednesday, February 10, 2021

Playing is one of the most effective methods through which children get to learn and develop skills. This museum offers children-friendly and interactive activities and exhibits that ignite their curiosity and creativity. The interactive exhibits explore areas such as Arts & Culture, School Readiness, and STEM. Enjoy a day of bonding with your kids here as they indulge in educational activities that will teach them about the world in a fun way. They will also get to interact with other children and build their collaboration skills.

The Iowa Children's Museum

Address: 1451 Coral Ridge Ave, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

Website: The Iowa Children’s Museum

Opening hours: Tue - Thu, Sat: 10am - 6pm; Fri: 10am - 8pm; Sun: 11am - 6pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 9 USD

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5. Cool off the heat at Coralville Community Aquatic Center

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Coralville Community Aquatic Center is one of the many fun places to visit in Coralville, Iowa. This center promises hours of fun with its many water-based attractions. With over 11,000 square feet (1,022 square meters) of surface water area, the facility houses a large L-shaped pool and three different slides. Furthermore, those brave of heart can try the diving board. Your little ones will experience countless hours of joy with the splash pad, water fountains, and play zone.

Moreover, the fun does not have to stop because you are hungry. To that end, the center offers a concession stand with delicious menus, including burgers, shaved ice, pizzas, and more, so you can refuel and dive back in.

Coralville Community Aquatic Center

Address: 1513 7th St., Coralville, IA 52241

Website: Coralville Community Aquatic Center

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11am - 7pm; Sat - Sun: 12pm - 6pm

Price: 6 USD (daily); 4 USD (on Sunday between 3pm and 6pm); free (children under the age of 2)

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6. Go hiking at Auburn Hills Park

things to do in coralville ia | go hiking at auburn hills park
Source: instagram

Sitting on 76.5 acres (31 hectares), this park features a gym, playground, and hiking trail. The trail is 3.3 miles (5.3 kilometers) long and suitable for all ages. Marvel at the scenic views of the river and vegetation as you enjoy your hike and keep fit. Take in breaths of fresh air, relax, and let yourself bask in the serene and beautiful surrounding. The trail is also dog-friendly in case you have a dog. By the end of your hike, you will be feeling rejuvenated.

Auburn Hills Park

Address: 380 Auburn Hills Dr, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

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7. Try ice skating at Coral Ridge Ice Arena

A great weekend to skate! Saturday, April 2 8:00 - 9:00 Freestyle 9:15 - 11:45 Learn To Skate...

Posted by Coral Ridge Ice Arena on Saturday, 2 April 2016

Brave the fear of falling down while ice skating at Coral Ridge Ice Arena. Rent some skating gear and feel the thrill as you have fun skating across the rink. If you are a beginner, professional ice skating lessons are offered year-round for people three years and above. You can also enjoy watching people compete at figure skating and ice hockey. Despite the few falls that may come with it, you will definitely have a lot of fun. There is also a food court nearby in case your energy runs low and you need some replenishing.

Coral Ridge Ice Arena

Address: 1451 Coral Ridge Ave, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

Website: Coral Ridge Ice Arena

Price: 6 USD (admission); 3 USD (skate rental)

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8. Shop till you drop at Coral Ridge Mall


A day of shopping is always a most welcomed idea. Visit Coral Ridge Mall which is the most popular shopping mall in Coralville. It has stores that sell clothing, electronics, health and beauty products, home and housewares, and jewelry. Some of the anchor stores include Dillard’s, Target, and Best Buy and other stores include Barnes & Noble HomeGoods and Ulta Beauty. With the variety of stores available, you cannot miss to get something you fancy. The mall also has an ice rink, a 10-screen movie theater, a carousel, children’s play area, and restaurants. It is home to Iowa Children’s Museum.

Coral Ridge Mall

Address: 1451 Coral Ridge Ave, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

Website: Coral Ridge Mall

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 9pm; Sun: 11am - 6pm

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9. Take a relaxing walk at Coralville Creekside Ballpark

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Late rain shower got us again Games are cancelled for 9/26/23

Posted by Coralville Creekside Ballpark on Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Feeling tired after attending all the events in Coralville, Iowa? Coralville Creekside Crossings Park is the perfect respite for your fatigue. This 2.6-mile (4.1-kilometer) course is perfect for cross-biking and cross-skiing. There are several trails to facilitate all kinds of recreation here, including the three flow trails for cyclers of all skill levels. You can even begin your mornings in this charming city with a jog at this park to energize you for the rest of the day. You can even catch ball games at the park on certain dates.

Do note that the park’s opening and closing timings are dependent on the seasons.

Coralville Creekside Ballpark

Address: 3550 340th St SE, Coralville, IA 52241

Website: Coralville Creekside Ballpark

Price: Free

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10. Visit Iowa Firefighters Memorial

Posted by Mark Hodson on Friday, 15 February 2019

Visit this memorial park which aims to honor and celebrate the selfless work of Iowa firefighters from the past, today, and in the future. See the beautiful and unique memorial sculpture, wall and eternal flame which add to the tranquility of the park. The walls have names of those who died serving in the Iowa Fire Department. Pay your tributes to the fallen and active firefighters who put their lives at risk to save people. Take in the beauty of the park which is a great tribute to them.

Iowa Firefighters Memorial

Address: 900 1st Ave, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

Website: Iowa Firefighters Memorial

Opening hours: 6am - 10:30pm (daily)

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11. Jog your mind solving puzzles at Outfox - Escape Room

Posted by Outfox on Wednesday, 29 July 2015

How exciting is it to be trapped in an Escape Room where only your wit at solving puzzles can set you free? Outfox - Escape Room offers just this experience. Grab your friends and come here for an exciting and mind-boggling experience. It features the beginners’ Think or Swim room where you have to recover hidden research and save a rare creature. The intermediate Finding Spirit room involves bringing back a team’s spirit before their next game. The difficult Cabin room involves saving of hostages and revealing who their captor is. Whatever your choice of game, you will have 60 minutes to solve the puzzle and save the day. Enjoy this fun and entertaining activity that also builds your problem-solving skills.

Outfox - Escape Room

Address: 2401 Coral Ct, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

Website: Outfox - Escape Room

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 5pm - 10pm; Sat: 10am - 10pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm

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12. Tee away at Brown Deer Golf Club

Welcome to the Chamber of Commerce Group today! Over 100 local business leaders are hitting the fairways today at Brown Deer Golf Club.

Posted by Brown Deer Golf Club on Friday, 22 August 2014

Brown Deer Golf Club features an 18-hole golf course, full service pro shop, and an arts and craft-themed clubhouse. Indulge in this relaxing sport as you tee away in the well-manicured fairways. This beautiful golf course is nestled in the undulating greens. Marvel at the picturesque scenery that makes the experience even more enjoyable. Get to slow burn those calories as you enjoy a round of golf.

Brown Deer Golf Club

Address: 1900 Country Club Dr, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

Website: Brown Deer Golf Club

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7am - 9pm; Sat - Sun: 6am - 9pm

Price: From 18 USD

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13. Check out the unique brick-built Old Town Hall of Coralville

Posted by Coralville Old Town Hall on Thursday, 7 July 2016

Old Town Hall of Coralville is a historical landmark in Coralville that was built in the 1880’s. After its construction, it was used for religious and public gatherings and later as a town hall. A visit here will enable you to learn about the building’s and city’s history. You will also see the Flexible Flyers exhibit which showcases Victorian-era sleds. For the history lovers or those interested in learning about the history of Coralville, this is a tour that you do not want to miss.

Old Town Hall of Coralville

Address: 407 5th St, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

Website: Old Town Hall of Coralville

Opening hours: Sat: 3pm - 5pm (closed from Sun - Fri)

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14. Get active at Altmaier Disc Golf Course

Posted by Coralville Parks and Recreation Department on Sunday, 30 September 2018

If you are looking for a more energy-consuming type of golf, disc golf is the sport to engage in. Altmaier Disc Golf Course features 18 holes. Have fun throwing the golf disc from the tee area to the target on the well-manicured fairways. Remember, the lesser throws to the target, the more points you get. Indulge in a little friendly competition with your friend and see who is crowned the disc golf champion at the end of a round. Fun and fitness combine at this joint to give you an entertaining experience.

Altmaier Disc Golf Course

Address: 3444 Deer Creek Rd, Oxford, IA 52322, United States

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11am - 11pm; Sat - Sun: 24 hours

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15. Pamper yourself at Spa Bilancia

Hot Stone massage is one of our favorite classic spa treatments! Hot stones help warm and relax the muscles as well as...

Posted by Spa Bilancia on Tuesday, 14 May 2019

Step away from the hustles and bustles of life and indulge in some self-pampering and healing at Spa Bilancia. The tranquil and beautiful space allows you to relax as the friendly staff attend to you. It offers services such as massage therapy, facial and skin care treatments using only organic products, eye beauty treatments, hair removal, reflexology, and micro-needling. Enjoy the first class services that will refresh your mind, body, and soul. By the time you leave Spa Bilancia, you will be feeling rejuvenated and beautiful both inside and outside.

Spa Bilancia

Address: 59 2nd St, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

Website: Spa Bilancia

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 9pm; Sat: 9am - 6pm (closed on Sun)

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16. Indulge your sweet tooth at Winans Chocolates & Coffees

Posted by Winans Chocolates + Coffees on Tuesday, 19 February 2019

Satisfy your sweet tooth cravings at Winans Chocolates & Coffees. They take pride in making premium handmade chocolate and serving freshly roasted and brewed coffees. The authenticity and flavors of their products are highly appreciated. To try out all their chocolates, you can buy their one-pound (0.5 kilograms) assorted chocolate box. Feel the sweetness and different tastes as the chocolates melt in your mouth. The different coffee flavors served add to the satisfaction you get from these finger-licking and mouthwatering treats. They will even make you forget about the extra calories you might add onto your daily intake.

Winans Chocolates & Coffees

Address: 470 1st Ave, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

Website: Winans Chocolates & Coffees

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 6pm; Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 10am - 3pm

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17. Watch a movie at Coral Ridge Cinema


A cinema date has always been an entertaining way to spend your day since time in memorial. The thrill that comes with watching a movie at a theater is the best. Coral Ridge Cinema features cozy seats, digital sound system, and digital 3D. The whole stadium seating setup and the movie comfort foods sold at the concession stands contribute to an overall amazing experience. This cinema shows the latest mainstream films. Whether you are alone or with company, you are guaranteed of an amazing time here. You will also keep abreast with the latest movies.

Coral Ridge Cinema

Address: 1451 Coral Ridge Ave, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

Website: Coral Ridge Cinema

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18. Catch a football game at Tailgators Sports Bar and Grill

Posted by Tailgators Sports Bar & Grill on Saturday, 7 October 2017

This sports bar offers a unique sports-watching experience. It features a huge screen and stage and every wall also has a large screen. This ensures that you can clearly and comfortably watch a game from any spot in the sports bar. The bar also has a pub-grub menu with delicious snacks, karaoke nights where you can sing your heart out, live music, and trivia nights. With such amenities, there is no reason to go anywhere else to watch your favorite sports.

Tailgators Sports Bar and Grill

Address: 450 1st Ave, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

Website: Tailgators Sports Bar and Grill

Opening hours: 11am - 2am (daily)

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19. Explore local breweries with Iowa Brew Tours

Posted by Iowa Brew Tours on Tuesday, 6 December 2016

Go on this exciting tour that takes you through three breweries and a tap house in a Ford Transit that carries 14 people. Choose to either go on a public or private tour that starts at 30hop American Grill. Learn about the history of brewing in eastern Iowa. The public tour package is inclusive of tasting either one pint (473 milliliters) of your favorite beer or sampling four to five of their top beers. The private tour allows you to plan your activities, includes pick-up and drop-off anywhere you want in Iowa City or Cedar Rapids Metro Area but excludes beer-tasting. Enjoy exploring the best breweries and drinking the best beer in Iowa.

Iowa Brew Tours

Address: 2876 High Bluff Dr, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

Website: Iowa Brew Tours

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: From 59 USD (public tour); 115 USD per hour (private tour)

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20. Go on a camping adventure at Coralville Lake

Camping by the lake side
Source: Pexels

Coralville Lake was artificially created from the Coralville Dam. The area has 3 campgrounds with about 620 campsites for you to choose from. Enjoy the surrounding beautiful scenery of the lake, lush greenery, and wildlife. While camping here, you can indulge in other activities such as swimming, boating, fishing and hiking. Get to relax and forget about the hustles and bustles of being in the city. The serenity and tranquility of the environment allows you to relax and meditate. This is an ideal way to experience nature at its finest.

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21. Dine with spectacular river views as your backdrop at Iowa River Power Restaurant

Iowa River Power restaurant
Source: Photo by user Alan Light used under CC BY 2.0

Located next to Iowa River, this restaurant offers its patrons fine dining combined with amazing water views. Choose to sit either at the river view lounge, private dining area, or outdoor patio. The chef takes pride in using fresh ingredients to prepare the most delectable meals. Their menu features American cuisine including steaks and seafood. Relish the serenity the restaurant provides as you have your finger-licking food. By the time you leave, not only will you be satisfied but relaxed too from viewing the water which has a calming effect.

Iowa River Power Restaurant

Address: 501 1st Ave, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

Website: Iowa River Power Restaurant

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 5pm - 9pm; Fri: 5pm - 10pm; Sat: 4pm - 10pm; Sun: 10am - 1:30pm, 4pm - 9pm

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22. Play tennis at S.T. Morrison Park

Men playing tennis
Source: Pixabay

For the people who enjoy playing tennis, S.T. Morrison Park features several tennis courts where you can indulge in the sport. Play a friendly competitive game of tennis to help you burn those calories and have a lot of fun while at it. The park also features a fishing pond, playground, swimming pool, and sand volleyball courts. It is also home to Coralville Community Aquatic Center.

S.T. Morrison Park

Address: 1513 7th St, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

Website: S.T. Morrison Park

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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23. Discover historical artifacts at Johnson County Historical Society

Posted by Johnson County Historical Society on Tuesday, 15 March 2016

Visit this museum dedicated to enlightening its visitors on the history and culture of Johnson County community. Learn about the county’s past and modern diverse heritage from over 10,000 historic artifacts. The permanent exhibit shows the evolution of farming and human life in the farm, history of the Meskwaki in the county, different components that make up Iowa culture and so much more. The museum also displays a number of traveling and special exhibits. Take a walk down memory lane and discover the growth of the county’s history and culture to become what it is now.

Johnson County Historical Society

Address: 860 Quarry Rd, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

Website: Johnson County Historical Society

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 5 USD

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24. Drink refreshing craft beers at 30hop Iowa River Landing

Hawkeye football and BOCO!

Posted by 30hop IRL on Friday, 28 November 2014

Stop by this bar and grill which offers a variety of rotational craft beers on tap and a seasonal menu. From the moment you step into the bar, you feel the energy in the room. The fun ambiance on the main level and the rooftop patio provides the perfect spot to relax and unwind as you enjoy your refreshing beer and scrumptious food. With an amazing view, tasty beers, and delicious food, you will have no reason to go anywhere else.

30hop Iowa River Landing

Address: 900 E 2nd Ave, Coralville, IA 52241, United States

Website: 30hop Iowa River Landing

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 11pm; Fri: 11am - 1am; Sat: 10am - 1am; Sun: 10am - 10:30pm

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Have fun discovering the city of Coralville

From lakeside camping, exploring local breweries and tasting craft beers, marveling at antique cars, to taking your chance at solving puzzles to save the day, this city has a lot to offer. You can never run out of fun activities to engage in. Plan a trip here and explore what Iowa’s Coralville is known for using our list of things to do.

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Frequently asked questions about the things to do in Coralville, Iowa


  • What are the top attractions in Coralville?

    Coralville offers an array of attractions to explore. Take your loved ones out for a romantic movie at the Coral Ridge Cinema or hit the local breweries. Sports enthusiasts can head to Tailgators Sports Bar and Grill and cheer for their favorite team while indulging in delicious food. Also, a day at Spa Bilancia is worth it.

  • Which activities in Coralville are great for families with kids?

    Families will have loads of fun in Coralville. Your kids will love to learn the local history at the Johnson County Historical Society as well as enjoy a tennis game at S.T. Morrison Park. Moreover, take your little ones out to explore nature at Coralville Lake. A splash time at the Coralville Community Aquatic Center is also in the cards.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Herine is from Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. As a travel enthusiast, she always takes interest in learning about and visiting new places. She has traveled to many places within the country,...Read more

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