Things To Do
in Coralville

Coralville, located adjacent to Iowa City in the United States, is a vibrant community known for its blend of urban amenities and outdoor activities. The city features a picturesque environment with numerous parks and trails, making it ideal for nature lovers. Coralville is also home to a lively arts scene, with several galleries and theaters showcasing local talent.

Additionally, the city offers a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making it an appealing destination for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day at the Coralville Reservoir, where you can enjoy a scenic walk or rent a kayak to paddle on the water.

afternoon
:

Visit the Coral Ridge Mall for shopping and lunch at one of its many eateries.

evening
:

Enjoy a performance at the Coralville Center for the Performing Arts, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Hike along the trails of the nearby Hickory Hill Park, taking in the beautiful landscapes.

afternoon
:

Explore the Iowa River Landing area, stopping at local shops and the outdoor farmer's market.

evening
:

Dine at a waterfront restaurant with views of the river, followed by a stroll along the riverwalk.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$4
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1.50
🏨Hotel (per night)$100
🛒Grocery Bill (weekly)$75

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • A vibrant arts and culture scene.
  • Family-friendly atmosphere with various activities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Cold winters may deter some visitors.
  • Smaller dining options compared to urban centers.

Places to Visit in Coralville

Visit one of these nice places.

Coralville Reservoir

A beautiful expanse of water surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for sunset photography.

Iowa River Landing

An urban area with modern architecture and scenic views of the Iowa River, great for architectural and landscape shots.

Hickory Hill Park

A serene park featuring diverse landscapes, trails, and wildlife, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Coralville

Coralville boasts a diverse culinary scene that reflects its Midwestern roots and local flavors, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Coralville Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pork Tenderloin Sandwich

A local favorite featuring a breaded pork loin served on a bun, often accompanied by pickles and onions.

Must-Try!

Maid-Rite

A loose meat sandwich that is a classic Iowa dish, served on a bun with optional toppings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Coralville Farmers Market

Held weekly during the summer months, this market features local produce, crafts, and food vendors offering delicious street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Coralville experiences a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm to hot, with temperatures averaging in the 80s°F (27-35°C), while winters can be cold, with average temperatures ranging from 15°F to 30°F (-9 to -1°C). Spring and fall offer mild temperatures with beautiful foliage, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Polite greetings and small talk are common; a friendly 'hello' goes a long way.

Queueing

Waiting in line is expected; cutting in is considered rude.

Personal Space

Respecting personal space is important; maintain a comfortable distance in conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Coralville is generally considered safe, with a lower crime rate compared to national averages. However, visitors should remain vigilant in busy areas and secure personal belongings. It's advisable to stay in well-lit areas at night and to use common sense when exploring.

Tipping in Coralville

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip servers 15-20% in restaurants, while rounding up for baristas and taxi drivers is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, and mobile payments are also widely accepted.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer offers warm weather perfect for hiking, water sports at the reservoir, and enjoying local concerts and events.

Fall

Fall is characterized by stunning foliage and cooler temperatures, perfect for scenic walks and harvest festivals.

Winter

Winter can be cold with snow, but offers opportunities for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Coralville at Night

Coralville offers a laid-back nightlife scene with a variety of bars, pubs, and live music venues. The Iowa River Landing area features several spots where locals gather for drinks and entertainment. Additionally, you can find karaoke bars and dance clubs that cater to a younger crowd. For a quieter evening, enjoy a nightcap at a cozy café or wine bar.

Hiking in Coralville

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cedar River Trail

A picturesque trail that runs along the Cedar River, offering scenic views and varying difficulty levels for hikers.

Devil's Glen Park

Located a short drive away, this park features numerous trails through wooded areas and along the river, suitable for all hiking levels.

Airports

How to reach Coralville by plane.

Eastern Iowa Airport (CID)

Located about 20 minutes from Coralville, this airport offers domestic flights and is the main airport serving the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Coralville is relatively walkable, particularly in areas like the Iowa River Landing and Coral Ridge Mall, where amenities are close together. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian paths are available in many neighborhoods. However, some areas may require a car for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

With the nearby University of Iowa, Coralville has a significant student population that contributes to its vibrant atmosphere.

Families

Many families reside in Coralville, attracted by the city's community-oriented amenities and excellent schools.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

College Football

The University of Iowa's football team draws large crowds and is a significant part of local culture.

Basketball

Iowa has a strong basketball tradition, with both college and recreational leagues thriving in the area.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Coralville is generally light, with most residents using cars for commuting. Public transportation is available through the Iowa City Transit system, which connects Coralville to Iowa City and surrounding areas. Biking is also popular, with designated bike lanes and paths throughout the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Coralville.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, ensuring that those with dietary restrictions can enjoy a fulfilling meal.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several establishments provide gluten-free menu items for guests with gluten sensitivities.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Coralville has access to quality healthcare facilities, including the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics located in nearby Iowa City. Emergency services are available, and there are several clinics and pharmacies throughout the city for routine care and medications.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide