There is so much fun to be had in Iowa City, Iowa. There are many people out there who think all that Iowa has to offer is corn. Trust me, being from there, I’ve heard it a million times. But I am always eager to correct them and feel ready with a list of fantastic things going on there. And Iowa City is generally at the top of my list!

I was born in a hospital in Iowa City and have been attracted ever since! It wasn’t until I was able to attend the University of Iowa that I gained a real understanding of the limitless possibilities that town has to offer. Still when I return I am amazed at all I missed out on. Not to mention how much of it is free!

As it is summer I will share with you just a taste of some of the seemingly endless opportunities offered to you and your family that will be going on during this season.

I’ll start with the movies on the quad. Once a week, on Saturday night, you can find a great movie playing across a screen set up on the Pentacrest. People bring blankets and picnics and enjoy a glorious free movie night! Perfect for families with children of all ages.

Also going on in the summer, from the middle of May to September, every Friday night there is live music downtown on the Pedestrian Mall. The musicians are all local and play a large variety of music. Make sure you get there early enough to secure your spot because there’s always a great turnout! Food vendors line the streets and some of the shops stay open for those wandering by. Several coffee and tea shops also keep their lights burning for the thirsty music fan.

In early June you can head downtown for the free Iowa Art’s Festival. It’s a weekend long celebration and has a wide variety of visual artists, musicians, and even a culinary expo! This is a wonderful opportunity to wander through the downtown area of Iowa City and see what the local talent has been drumming up over the past year.

In early July, for those of you music lovers out there, you can meander on downtown, once again, for another fantastic free event: the Iowa City Jazz Festival! There are several stages boasting all kinds of local talent as well as internationally acclaimed artists as well. Make sure to bring your lawn chair and sunscreen for this one as the music runs from early afternoon till late evening!

Like I said earlier, this is just a taste. There is so much more going on throughout Iowa City by means of shopping, dining, and exploring. Too much to cover in one article! But if you and yours are headed that way I certainly suggest hitting up as much as you possibly can. You may have a packed schedule but you will remember your time there for years to come!