As you gear up for your college move-in weekend, it’s not just about unpacking boxes, arranging furniture, and meeting new roommates or seeing your friends—it’s also an opportunity to explore the University of Iowa, Iowa City and the surrounding area.

You are likely receiving a lot of valuable information from the University about what’s going on for move in day and even activities that go on all week long. But we know you’re also likely interested in learning more about the best or most popular local places to visit during this busy weekend. Not sure where to start? Here’s a sample itinerary with everything you need to plan the entire weekend, from where to stay, eat, shop, and explore. No matter what your student or family loves to do, there is always something to fit your interests in the vibrant Iowa City area. 

• Day one focuses on arriving in Iowa City and just getting a lay of the land, checking into your hotel, and exploring lunch or dinner. 
• Day two is for shopping for last minute essentials, exploring campus and downtown, and heading out for a family friendly activity before taking in one of Iowa City’s many restaurant options. 
• Day three is for moving in, meeting new friends, and a celebratory lunch or dinner.

Day 1: Arrival in Iowa City and Settling In

You’re almost here! Before you arrive in vibrant Iowa City, here are some tips to make your arrival as smooth as possible. Let’s talk about traffic. Depending on where you are coming from (Chicago residents and Chicago suburb residents) you may find traffic to be a breeze no matter how busy it is. Or if  you’re from a smaller town, or just haven’t had as much experience driving in a Big Ten college town on move in weekend, we want to offer some tips. 

Traffic Tips

Ultimately, we know you will rely on Waze and Google Maps to let you know where traffic is heavy or slow on your way into Iowa City, but we wanted to give you a heads up about a few areas under construction for the 2024 move in. We’ll start with this for the many people who will come into town that day and want to unload their move in items immediately. 

Currently, the University recommends you avoid entering town via Melrose Avenue or Riverside Drive on the westside of Iowa City due to construction. Melrose is the road that leads to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics and past Kinnick Stadium so this can be a hectic area to navigate on any day, even without construction. 

There is also major construction underway off of the First Ave. Coralville exit on Interstate 80. This is the exit that features Trader Joe’s and the growing Iowa River Landing. You will definitely want to put this area on your visit list for the weekend, but for purposes of getting to campus we recommend you take the following Interstate 80 exits depending on where you are coming from. 

• Coming from the west, we recommend you take Exit 240, the Coralville Mall exit which brings you into town via what locals call the Coralville Strip (Waze will call it US-6 West). 
• Coming from west or east, we highly recommend exit 244 Dubuque Street which will take you directly into downtown Iowa City. It’s the shortest route from Interstate 80 to campus. 
• Coming from the east, you might want to jump off at Exit 246, Dodge Street, which becomes a two-lane, one-way street into downtown after the first mile.  
• From the Cedar Rapids Airport, head west on Wright Brothers Boulevard SW, then merge onto I-380 South. Take Exit 0 for I-80 East toward Davenport.   Once on I-80 we again recommend you take Exit 244.

For more information on getting to campus, check out Maps & Transportation.

Hotel Recommendations

One of the biggest items to knock off your to do list as you look ahead to move in weekend is finding a hotel. Lucky for you, we have some great recommendations to fit any interests and location.  

Downtown

• Check out the Graduate Iowa City. It’s conveniently located in the heart of the Ped Mall near restaurants and vibrant nightlife and just steps from campus. The hotel is a place where “local history, legends and Hawkeye traditions, including creative interiors and college nostalgia come together for a stay that’s undeniably Iowa City.” Located on the downtown Ped Mall, the hotel is within walking distance of the University of Iowa campus. Graduate also has Wilder restaurant and Poindexter Coffee on site. 
• Just one block from the Ped Mall is Hotel Chauncey Iowa City, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. It offers breathtaking floor-to-ceiling views, proximity to everything downtown, and entertainment built in with SpareMe bowling alley and the very modern FilmScene movie theater located on site.

Near Kinnick Stadium

•  Courtyard by Marriott University Heights on Melrose Avenue is one of the area’s newest hotels and is located across the street from Kinnick Stadium and just blocks from Carver-Hawkeye Arena. The hotel has a spacious Bistro (including an on-site Starbucks® and full-service cocktail bar and menu) on the first floor with high-top tables and private wrap-around booths that feature individual TVs to catch any game. Nestled within the west side of campus, it’s also near popular restaurants and venues such as Stella, Barre3, Sidekick Coffee & Books, Maggie’s Farm Wood-Fired Pizza, and more.

Near Iowa River Landing in Coralville

• If you’re bringing your pet or just looking for something affordable with a complimentary breakfast, Comfort Inn & Suites Coralville-Iowa City near Iowa River Landing is ideal. Located right off of Interstate 80 in Coralville, it’s within walking distance to dozens of restaurants, coffee shops, the Von Maur department store, Trader Joe’s, and so much more. It’s also only a short drive to Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum or Coralville Lake.

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Before heading out to explore, fill up at a family-friendly local lunch spot. Quinton’s Bar and Deli is known for its delicious sandwiches, soups, and salads. Or start the weekend off right with Burger Haul and its welcoming atmosphere and fantastic food. Don’t leave without signing the wall! You also might want to check out Pancheros Mexican Grill (bowls and burritos), Micky’s Irish Pub (great burger baskets), or Basta (sit on the patio!).  

Explore the University of Iowa Campus

Now it’s time to hit the campus and explore downtown. Here are a few campus highlights you don’t want to miss. 

• The Iowa Memorial Union is a hub for students. Visit the Hubbard Commons for events, grab a coffee at Java House, or enjoy the scenic view of the Iowa River from the terrace.
• The Pentacrest is the heart of campus. It features iconic buildings like Old Capitol, Jessup Hall, and the Macbride Hall Observatory. Take a moment to appreciate the beautiful green space and the historic architecture.
• Stroll down the Ped Mall, a lively pedestrian area lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Grab a bite, browse local boutiques, and enjoy street performances.
• The University Bookstore is more than just textbooks. Explore shelves filled with Hawkeye gear, literature, and gifts. It’s a great place to find UI-themed merchandise and show your school spirit!
• And if you’re eager to get started, the Main Library is a treasure trove of knowledge. Wander through its stacks, read in the Learning Commons, or admire the stunning Dome Room.

Dinner and Relaxation

Treat yourself to a great meal after your first day of learning your way around town and campus. St. Burch, Joseph’s Steakhouse, and fan favorite Pagliais Pizza are all downtown. Or, you can head out to Iowa River Landing where 30Hop, Tribute, and The Athletic Club are all great for a family meal with great dinner and drink options. All of them have either a rooftop or patio dining. 

Day 2: Shopping and College Move-In Preparation

Now that you know your way around campus, use today to make any last minute preparations to move-in. 

Breakfast at a Local Café

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner. Hamburg Inn No. 2 is a can’t-miss spot while you or your student attends the University of Iowa. But this local gem is popular, so arrive early. For a classic breakfast diner feel, check out Bluebird Diner. Located in downtown Iowa City, you’ll find just the morning boost you want.

Shopping for College Decor and Essentials

Do you still have a few things on your home shopping list? If you’re looking for an iconic piece to add to space, you can’t miss Design Ranch to find the unique and stylish item on your list. For a traditional college room shopping list, there are two Target stores in the area, one located in downtown Iowa City and the other near more shopping and restaurants at Coral Ridge Mall in Coralville. If you’re hoping to pick up a gently-used piece for your college home, then Stuff, etc., is the place for you. With new items on the floor daily, this second chance store has something for everyone. 

And don’t forget your home essentials! At the Old Capital Mall in downtown Iowa City, you can find a CVS Pharmacy that meets any health and wellness needs. Or, if you need groceries, you can grab a cartful at any of our local Hy-Vee stores. Or, for a bountiful, organic produce section, check out New Pioneer Food Coop.

Break for Lunch or Dinner

For a quick lunch break near shopping, check out Z’marik’s Noodle Cafe in downtown Iowa City, which is the perfect place to grab a quick noodle bowl. Or if you’re out by Coral Ridge Mall, check out the food court or the many restaurants that surround the mall.  

Is it dinner time already? Find the perfect restaurant to celebrate the end of a busy day. The food and ambiance are so good at The Webster, it made national news. They earned a spot on the 2023 New York Times Restaurant List. Or grab a napkin and dig into the delights at Jimmy Jack’s Rib Shack, which offers a family-friendly atmosphere and a delicious menu. Another popular option is Orchard Green, which offers more upscale dining upstairs and less formal downstairs. Did we mention they also offer free valet parking?

Family Friendly Activities

Round off a productive day with some family fun in the Iowa City area.  Visit a local park or see what’s on stage at the Englert Theater for a relaxing evening. You can also find great entertainment at The James Theater. 

Are you still looking to explore? The Natural History Museum in the Pentacrest is a free museum that spans the eons. You also should take time to enjoy the amazing Stanley Art Museum on campus. It’s here where you can see Jackson Pollock’s 1943 masterpiece Mural.  In 1951,  it was donated to the university by dealer and art impresario Peggy Guggenheim. The painting cemented the school’s reputation as one of the most progressive art institutions in the country.

Want to bike around town. Check out Pedego in Coralville where you can rent e-bikes. Want to explore the outdoors, head to the Devonian Fossil Gorge or the Coralville Reservoir beach. They are less than 15 minutes outside of town. 

Day 3: College Move-In Day

It’s finally moving day!

Grab an Early Breakfast

Check out these coffee shops and local bakeries for a quick grab-and-go breakfast. Bruegger’s Bagel and Jamba Juice have bagels loaded just the way you like and coffee or a smoothie to go. With locations in downtown Iowa City, Coralville, and Riverside Drive, there’s one on the way to campus. Or fuel up at Coffee Emporium with fresh coffee breakfast sandwiches you want to take advantage of.

Parking Near Residence Halls and Apartments

With so many college students moving in at the same time (for the most part), parking isn’t always easy. But if you’re moving into the residence halls, you may be surprised at how well the University runs the “pull up and unload” part of the process. Yes, you still have to find parking nearby after you unload, but the pressure of carrying your heavy items for blocks is one you can avoid for the most part. 

At least that’s the case if you are here on the University’s official move in days where they have hundreds of volunteers across all of the residence halls helping to manage traffic lines and unloading.  For those living off campus, particularly downtown, it may be harder. But because everyone is moving in typically over a two week period beginning after August 1 for apartments, most people recognize that it won’t be uncommon to see a car pulled up with red lights blinking as they unload and then move on. So, bring your patience, but also know there is a reason people here are called Iowa Nice. Most will be ready to lend a helping hand whether it’s to offer you advice on where to park or to pick up the other end of that couch you’re carrying.

Move-In Process

This is why you’re here! Moving is stressful, but it can also be fun! Remember that it’s an exciting time, and here are a few tips for making it go as smoothly as possible. 

• Arrive Early: Plan to arrive early on move-in day. Beat the crowds and secure a good parking spot. If you’re moving into a dorm, check your assigned time slot and follow it diligently.
• Be Organized: Label your boxes clearly with room numbers or contents. This makes unpacking a breeze. Keep important documents (ID, housing info, etc.) easily accessible.
• Pack Smart: Prioritize essentials like bedding, toiletries, and a basic toolkit. Consider collapsible storage bins—they’re handy for organizing and can double as under-bed storage.
• Know Your Space: Measure your room dimensions beforehand if possible. This helps when arranging furniture. Dorm rooms are cozy, so maximize vertical space with shelves or lofted beds.
• Connect with Roommates: Reach out to your roommates before move-in day. Coordinate who brings what (mini-fridge, microwave, etc.). Set the tone for a fun year of learning and growth with a friendly introduction.

As you wrap up your move into your college dorm or apartment, remember to take care of yourself amidst the hustle. Moving can be exhausting, especially during hot weather. Keep a water bottle handy and sip water throughout the day. Take breaks when you need them. And focus on unpacking the essentials first. Start with bedding, toiletries, and any immediate necessities. You can tackle the rest gradually over the next few days.

Lunch Near Campus

During one of those much-needed (and deserved) breaks, snag a quick lunch for yourself and your moving party. Bread Garden Market has convenient and quick options for a busy day, with plenty of outdoor seating in the Ped Mall. Or grab a pita or grill plate at Oasis Falafel and find a spot at a picnic table to enjoy this local favorite.  

Farewell Dinner

For a special dinner to end a special weekend, check out Big Grove Brewery Taproom, which has a delicious menu. It’s ideal for a memorable family meal before parting ways. Or, for a great ambiance and menu, end your trip on a high note at Pullman Bar and Diner.

As you conclude your college move-in weekend, take a moment to reflect on the experience and the exciting journey ahead. This weekend isn’t just about settling into your new home; it’s about embracing the vibrant community and discovering all that Iowa City has to offer. Whether you’ve enjoyed the local eateries, explored the beautiful campus, or tackled your shopping list, there’s so much more to see and do.

To make the most of your time here, we invite you to explore our website for more recommendations on the best places to eat, shop, and experience in the area. Dive into the local culture, uncover hidden gems, and start your college journey with unforgettable adventures. Let the exploration continue!

Looking for More Great Tips? 

Check out our blog on planning your summer vacation in Iowa City.