Looking for Midwestern charm, prehistoric discoveries, and family-friendly attractions? Head to Coralville, Iowa! Located next to Iowa City, Coralville is known for its outdoor recreation, welcoming community, and rich natural history. Whether you’re visiting the University of Iowa, biking scenic trails, or exploring ancient fossils, Coralville offers a unique and accessible Iowa getaway.
Coralville, IA Highlights:
- For Science Lovers: Visit the Devonian Fossil Gorge – Walk through a 375-million-year-old fossil bed exposed by flooding, with visible coral and marine fossils.
- For Nature Enthusiasts: Explore Coralville Lake and Dam Complex – Go hiking, boating, or birdwatching along this massive reservoir and park system.
- For Families: Learn and play at The Iowa Children's Museum – Hands-on exhibits designed for creative learning and interactive fun inside the Coral Ridge Mall.
- For Cyclists: Ride the Clear Creek Trail – A scenic biking and walking trail that connects Coralville to Iowa City and beyond.
- For Shoppers: Explore Coral Ridge Mall – With over 100 stores, an ice rink, a movie theater, and restaurants, it's a great indoor stop year-round.
Best Time to Visit Coralville, IA
The best time to visit Coralville is during the spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) for mild weather, college sports, and colorful landscapes. Summer is great for lake activities and festivals, while winter offers indoor attractions and holiday cheer.
How to Get to Coralville, IA
- By Car: Coralville is conveniently located along I-80, about 20 minutes from Cedar Rapids and 1.5 hours from Des Moines.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) in Cedar Rapids, about 25 minutes away by car.
- By Bus: Several intercity bus services stop in Iowa City, including Megabus, Burlington Trailways, and Greyhound.
Where to Stay in Coralville, IA
- Recommended for Families: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Coralville – Spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and close proximity to the mall and museum.
- For Convenience: Drury Inn & Suites Iowa City Coralville – Complimentary breakfast and evening snacks, centrally located near shopping and dining.
- For a Boutique Stay: Hotel Chauncey (nearby in Iowa City) – Stylish, modern hotel with rooftop views and walkable downtown access.
Best Things to Do in Coralville, IA
⮕ Iowa Firefighters Memorial
Honor heroic service and reflect at this solemn, easy-to-reach memorial site.
© Iowa Firefighters Memorial
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What is the Iowa Firefighters Memorial?
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The Iowa Firefighters Memorial was created to honor, celebrate, and inspire the spirit, service, and courage of firefighters in Iowa, including those from the past, present, and future.
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Why is the memorial significant?
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Iowa was the first state to establish a firefighter memorial, making this site a meaningful tribute to firefighters and an inspiration to people of all ages.
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What is the mission of the Iowa Firefighters Memorial?
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The memorial was established to continue a tradition of service to others and the community, exemplifying the values and pride of the state of Iowa.
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What features are included at the memorial site?
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The Iowa Firefighters Memorial site consists of a visitor center, an eternal flame, and a memorial wall and sculpture.
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What is the address and contact information?
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900 1st Ave, Coralville, IA 52241, Phone: 319-337-6592.
⮕ Coral Ridge Mall
Shop, skate, or catch a movie during a quick, family-friendly outing.
© Coral Ridge Mall
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What is Coral Ridge Mall?
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The Coral Ridge Mall is considered the premiere destination for entertainment, dining, and shopping in Coralville, Iowa, as well as the Midwest region.
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What entertainment options does the mall offer?
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Coral Ridge Mall features a reproduction antique carousel, a play area for children, the Iowa Children’s Museum, an NHL-regulation-size ice arena, and a ten-screen movie theater.
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How large is the food court?
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The mall has a 1,000-seat food court, offering a wide variety of dining options.
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How many stores and retailers are in the mall?
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Coral Ridge Mall is home to over 120 stores and retailers, including Francesca’s, White House Black Market, Target, Old Navy, Best Buy, Barnes & Noble, Ashley Homestore, Petsmart, Ulta, and Sephora, among many others.
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What dining options are available?
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The mall offers a variety of restaurants and fast-food options, including Mellow Mushroom, Panera Bread, Chili’s, Red Lobster, Panda Express, Chick-fil-A, and more.
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What is the address and contact information?
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1451 Coral Ridge Ave, Coralville, IA 52241, Phone: 319-625-5522.
⮕ 1876 Coralville Schoolhouse
Step back in time and explore this unusual glimpse into 19th-century education.
© Johnson County Historical Society
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What is the 1876 Coralville Schoolhouse?
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The 1876 Coralville Schoolhouse is a restored historic schoolhouse dating back to 1876. It now serves as a space for hands-on activities and interactive exhibits designed for kids.
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Can visitors take tours of the schoolhouse?
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Yes, tours can be arranged by appointment and are led by costumed guides, offering an immersive experience of the past.
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What is the history of the Coralville Schoolhouse?
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The schoolhouse is a red-brick, two-room building that served as Coralville’s primary school from 1876 to 1951.
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What can visitors experience at the schoolhouse?
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Guests can see and experience what school was like for children during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They can step into a time when students of all ages learned in the same room with simpler, less modern surroundings.
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What is the address and contact information?
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310 5th St, Coralville, IA 52241, Phone: 319-351-5738.
Attractions for Couples
⮕ Johnson County Historical Society
Discover local history and see curated exhibits in this affordable museum.
© Johnson County Historical Society
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What is the Johnson County Historical Society?
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The Johnson County Historical Society is a non-profit, private organization dedicated to fostering an appreciation for Johnson County’s cultural and historical heritage through interpretation, preservation, and education.
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What does the historical society operate?
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The society runs a museum in Coralville, Iowa that houses over thirteen thousand historic artifacts showcasing the county's rich history.
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What historical periods does the museum cover?
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The museum’s exhibits span from the time of the Meskwaki tribe and the area’s early settlers through to contemporary times, providing a comprehensive look at the region’s past.
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When is the museum open to the public?
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The museum is open to the public from Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, and on Sundays from noon until 5:00 PM.
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What is the address and contact information?
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860 Quarry Road, Coralville, IA 52241, Phone: 319-351-5738.
⮕ Brown Deer Golf Club
Tee off and enjoy scenic fairways perfect for a summer weekend outing.
© Brown Deer Golf Club
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What is the Brown Deer Golf Club?
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The Brown Deer Golf Club is a beautiful eighteen-hole golf course in Coralville, Iowa. It is an award-winning golf destination known for its scenic design and well-maintained facilities.
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Is Brown Deer Golf Club open to the public?
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Yes, Brown Deer Golf Club is open to the public, welcoming golfers of all skill levels.
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What are the architectural features of the clubhouse?
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The clubhouse is designed in an arts-and-crafts style and is one of the largest clubhouses in eastern Iowa, providing ample space for guests and events.
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What amenities does the clubhouse offer?
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Guests can enjoy a practice green, a full-service pro shop, facility rentals for special events and parties, a driving range, and a complete practice hole.
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Does the golf club have a restaurant?
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Yes, the Brown Deer Golf Club features DIVOTS Bar and Grill, which serves food from 11:00 AM until 9:00 PM.
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What is the address and contact information?
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1900 Country Club Dr, Coralville, IA 52241, Phone: 319-248-9300.
Where to Eat in Coralville, IA
⮕ Monica's
Savor Italian classics or enjoy wine at this cozy, romantic restaurant spot.
© Monica's
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What is Monica’s?
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Monica’s is a locally owned and operated restaurant in Coralville, Iowa, known for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu.
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Has Monica’s received any awards?
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Yes, Monica’s has won numerous “Best of the Area” awards, including Best Lunch Spot, Best Family-Friendly Restaurant, and Best Restaurant Overall. It has also been ranked in the top three for Best Pizza and Best Italian Restaurant.
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What are the restaurant’s hours?
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Monica’s is open seven days a week, making it a convenient dining option for any day of the week.
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What kind of food does Monica’s serve?
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The menu features a wide variety of American favorites, including jambalaya, pot roast, and meatloaf. It also offers Italian specialties such as chicken balsamico, shrimp diavolo, ravioli, and baked ziti.
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Does Monica’s serve pizza?
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Yes, Monica’s serves brick oven pizza, prepared with handmade dough and the highest quality ingredients.
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What is the address and contact information?
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303 2nd St, Coralville, IA 52241, Phone: 319-338-7400.
More Places to Eat in Coralville, IA
- For Casual Dining: Backpocket Brewing – A lively local brewery with craft beer, pizza, and an outdoor beer garden.
- For Upscale Fare: Twelve01 Kitchen and Tap – Elevated American dining with steak, seafood, and an extensive drink menu.
If you are interested in local events:
- For Art Lovers: Iowa Arts Festival (June, Iowa City) – Regional and national artists, live music, and food vendors in a downtown celebration.
- For Summer Fun: Coralville 4thFest (July) – A patriotic festival with parades, concerts, fireworks, and family events.
- For Sports Fans: Iowa Hawkeyes Football Games (Fall) – Join the excitement at nearby Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30–90 Minutes of Coralville, IA:
- For History & Architecture: Amana Colonies (30 min) – A group of historic villages with crafts, German food, and old-world charm.
- For Outdoor Fun: Lake Macbride State Park (20 min) – Swim, hike, and paddle at this popular local lake with trails and beaches.
- For Big City Culture: Cedar Rapids (30–35 min) – Museums, breweries, the Czech Village, and events in Iowa’s second-largest city.
- For Scenic Views: Palisades-Kepler State Park (45 min) – Explore cliffs, wooded trails, and the Cedar River.
- For Unique Stops: Kalona Amish Community (45 min) – Tour Amish farms, quilt shops, and learn about the area's Mennonite heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What makes Coralville, Iowa unique?
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Known as one of the “Curious Communities” of Iowa City, the town of
Coralville, Iowa offers a number of activities for tourists or locals
who want to explore their surroundings.
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What shopping and dining options are available in Coralville?
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Coralville offers numerous shopping opportunities, including the
Coral Ridge Mall, and a variety of restaurants such as
Monica's, known for serving delicious food.
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What historical attractions can visitors explore in Coralville?
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History enthusiasts can visit the Johnson County Historical Society Museum
or the 1876 Coralville Schoolhouse.
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Are there any notable landmarks in Coralville?
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The Iowa Firefighters Memorial is worth a stop as well.
Plan Your Trip