We’ve all been struggling through the harsh temperatures and ever-lasting snowfalls of an Iowa winter but it’s finally begun to give way to spring. With the nice 70-degree weather that comes with spring, many more activities can be done. Here are some ideas of things to do to make this spring one to remember.

Have a Rainbow Picnic

A picnic is the most classic spring activity. The soft checkered blanket on fresh green grass is straight out of children’s books. A rainbow picnic, however, is a fun twist on the classic outdoor meal. Get together a group of friends and each person buys a small food item from each color of the rainbow. When you get to the picnic, there’s a surprise course in every color! 

Plant a Spring Garden

As the weather gets warmer, the season for starting gardens comes with it. All throughout spring, there’s an abundance of different plants that will thrive in a garden. Any small plot of land, a few seeds, and some tender love and care will work perfectly as a garden. Plant lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and more throughout the spring planting season. 

Go Birdwatching

The chirping of birds in the morning is something that is often associated with spring. That makes sense because in Iowa all the birds are flying back from down South. Going out with the sole purpose to look at birds may sound boring, but it can actually be very relaxing. Surrounding yourself in nature and counting the different birds you see is an experience you can’t judge until you’ve tried it. 

Go to a local Farmer’s Market

 In our area, there are two farmer’s markets to choose from! One in Iowa City and one in Coralville. There you can find locally grown produce, flowers, and other treats. It’s a fun activity to do if you find yourself with some extra time on a Saturday or Wednesday morning in May. Buying from a farmer’s market is a great way to support your area’s local farmers. 

Go Puddle Jumping

Spring is the season of rainy days. As the well-known saying goes “April showers bring May flowers” but they also bring puddles! Rainy days can be gloomy but gearing up in big raincoats and boots and going out to splash through some puddles can brighten your day. This is a great way to connect with your inner child and let go of the worries and stress in your life.

Take a Hike

When the weather gets warmer and the trees become green again it’s the perfect time to go for a hike. There are plenty of beautiful spots in and around the Iowa City area. Andrea Harms, a biology teacher at West High is an avid hiker. “Our family loves Squire Point- there are places to see the water and workout machines along the way.” She also recommends Kent Park and Terry Trueblood as great spring hiking locations.