How about experiencing the Iowa City community from a new perspective? Here are a few local spots that provide an above ground view.

30hop offers a rooftop patio with bar and drink service overlooking the Iowa River Landing. The string lighting provides a warm setting for sunset, especially when local bands play during the Rhythm & Brews series.

FilmScene hosts film screenings on its rooftop in the warmer months, providing a unique and memorable experience to movie lovers.

Vue Rooftop offers arguably the best view of downtown Iowa City (pictured at right). Situated on top floor of the Hilton Garden Inn, it is a spacious bar and restaurant with an inviting outdoor lounge area, complete with a fire pit. Don’t miss music by dueling pianos on the first Friday of the month.

The Vista Room on the top floor of the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital offers incredible view of campus, along with the south part of Iowa City. Take Public Elevators 1 and 2 to Level 12 and look for the purple hot air balloon icon. There is also a terrace outside of the Rooftop Café in the Main Hospital (Elevator F, Level 8) open for visitors.

The University of Iowa campus boasts an observatory on the roof of Van Allen Hall and is open to the public two evenings each month, weather permitting. Roof Access is a stairway adjacent to the 7th Floor East Elevator Door. Celestial views, anyone?

Ryerson’s Woods, a park just south of the Johnson County Fairgrounds, offers a scenic overlook accessible by a hiking trail, just under a mile in length. Its location allows for a view that includes most of Iowa City looking to the east.

This collection of communities encourages exploration – in all kinds of spaces, high and low.