Johnston

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Johnston's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival in Johnston
morning
:

Arrive in Johnston, settle into your accommodation, and soak in the local atmosphere. Visit a nearby café for breakfast, enjoying the delightful options available. Spend some time exploring the town's parks and getting acquainted with the community.

afternoon
:

Head to the Johnston Historical Society to gain insight into the rich history of the area. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local restaurants where you can sample regional cuisine. Take a stroll around the neighborhood to admire the picturesque landscapes and friendly ambiance.

evening
:

Dine at a charming bistro that features local favorites, experiencing the culinary scene. After dinner, attend a community event or live performance if one is available. Wind down your day by relaxing at your accommodation or taking a peaceful evening walk.

day 2
Exploring Parks and Recreation
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, then make your way to the beautiful Johnston Greenbelt Trail. Enjoy a refreshing walk or bike ride along the scenic pathways, surrounded by nature and wildlife. Take photos to capture the beauty of the local flora.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the many parks in Johnston, like Terra Park or Johnston Commons. Spend the afternoon engaging in outdoor activities such as frisbee, badminton, or simply lounging under a shady tree. Consider visiting the local skate park if you're feeling adventurous.

evening
:

Head back to your accommodation to freshen up before dinner. Choose a restaurant with outdoor seating to enjoy the pleasant evening weather while tasting delicious dishes. After dinner, catch a movie at a nearby theater or enjoy board games with friends.

day 3
Cultural Day in Johnston
morning
:

Visit the Johnston Arts Center to immerse yourself in the local art scene. Participate in a workshop, where you can create your own piece of art to take home. Enjoy a light breakfast at the center's café, featuring local and organic options.

afternoon
:

Explore nearby galleries and studios, appreciating various forms of creativity in the heart of Johnston. Enjoy lunch at a trendy eatery that promotes local ingredients and dishes. Spend some time shopping at local boutiques for unique handmade souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant known for its farm-to-table offerings, relishing fresh seasonal ingredients. After dinner, attend a local theater performance or live music event to experience the vibrant cultural life of Johnston. Reflect on your day over dessert at a charming ice cream parlor.

day 4
Adventure in Nature
morning
:

Kick off your day with an energizing breakfast and prepare for a day of outdoor adventure. Head to nearby parks for hiking or birdwatching, taking in the stunning Iowa landscapes. Bring along a camera to capture the majestic views along the trails.

afternoon
:

After a productive morning, enjoy a packed lunch in nature, surrounded by the sounds of wildlife. Continue your outdoor escapade with activities such as kayaking or fishing at one of the local lakes or rivers. This is the perfect opportunity to disconnect and rejuvenate.

evening
:

Return to Johnston, and clean up before heading to dinner at a barbecue joint known for its flavorful dishes. Spend your evening relaxing at a local pub with live music or trivia night. Wind down the day by sharing stories of your adventures with fellow travelers or locals.

day 5
Family Day Out
morning
:

Start with a family breakfast at a popular spot that offers a variety of kid-friendly options. Spend the morning at a local family-friendly attraction such as the Adventureland Park, where fun awaits everyone. Engage in games and rides that promise a day full of laughter and excitement.

afternoon
:

Continue the fun with a picnic lunch in the adjoining park, allowing the kids to play and explore. Visit a local zoo or petting farm for the afternoon, where children can interact with animals and learn about wildlife. Capture special moments with family photos throughout the day.

evening
:

Have a special family dinner at a chain restaurant that offers something for everyone. After dinner, consider a screening of a family movie at a nearby cinema for a classic end to a fun-filled day. Finish off with a sweet treat from an ice cream shop before heading home.

day 6
Day of Relaxation
morning
:

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a café, treating yourself to a light and indulgent meal to start your relaxation day. Spend the morning at a local spa, indulging in massages or pampering treatments designed to melt away stress. Mingle with friendly locals as you unwind and recharge.

afternoon
:

Have a light lunch at a low-key restaurant and enjoy some downtime at your accommodation to read or catch up on favorite shows. Explore nearby shops for some retail therapy, picking up items that bring joy and relaxation. A leisurely afternoon at a cozy coffee shop can also provide a perfect respite.

evening
:

Dress up for a delightful dinner at a higher-end restaurant with ambiance and sophisticated options. Post dinner, enjoy a serene evening walk in one of the parks, under a starry sky, allowing the tranquility of Johnston to envelop you. Conclude your day with a bubble bath or quiet night in, reflecting on your experiences.

day 7
Sports and Activities Day
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast to fuel up for a day filled with sports and activities. Attend a local sports event or participate in community activities like a fun run or cycling event. Cheer on locals or fellow participants, getting into the spirit of friendly competition.

afternoon
:

After the morning’s excitement, enjoy a casual lunch at a sports pub, discussing the day’s events with fellow enthusiasts. Spend the afternoon visiting local sports complexes, playing basketball, or even trying out disc golf. Engage with community members involved in sports to learn about upcoming events.

evening
:

For dinner, opt for a restaurant that celebrates the local sports culture with game-day specials. After dining, gather at a local bar to watch a professional game, joining fans in cheers and excitement. Wrap up your day by sharing sports stories and experiences with newfound friends.

day 8
Culinary Exploration
morning
:

Kickstart your culinary journey with breakfast at a local café known for its gourmet options. Join a food tour to discover local delicacies across Johnston, learning about the rich culinary traditions in Iowa. Taste various dishes that reflect the community’s culture and history.

afternoon
:

Continue your culinary exploration with a lunch stop at a farmer's market where you can sample fresh produce and local delicacies. Attend a cooking class or workshop to learn about preparing regional dishes you can recreate at home. Spend the afternoon visiting food producers to learn more about local ingredients.

evening
:

Indulge in a memorable dinner at a fine restaurant, experiencing a chef’s tasting menu that showcases the best of Johnston's culinary scene. Share your experiences of the day with a toast, savoring every bite. Wrap up the night with dessert at a renowned bakery, taking home treats to remember your culinary adventure.

day 9
Creative Arts and Crafts
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a creative café that stimulates inspiration through art and design. Attend an arts and crafts workshop offered at a community center, giving you the chance to explore your creative side. You'll have the opportunity to meet fellow artisans and share ideas in a supportive environment.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a light lunch at a café before heading to visit local artisan studios to admire their work. Participate in a pottery or painting class to create a unique piece of art, perhaps even using techniques learned earlier in the day. Spend the afternoon letting your creativity flow in a fun and encouraging setting.

evening
:

Dine at a quirky restaurant adorned with local art, where you can enjoy fusion cuisine. Post-dinner, attend an art gallery opening or an exhibition to celebrate local talent. Finish your creative day with a glass of wine or craft beer at a bar that supports local artists in the area.

Discover Johnston

Read more in our Johnston 2025 Travel Guide.

Johnston Travel Guide