What to do? Kids’ activities in Cedar Rapids
We’re in the dead of winter right now, and I don’t know about you, but my kids are going absolutely CRAZY being cooped up all day long! It’s been so cold lately that my older daughter’s preschool class hasn’t been able to play outside for weeks. What to do when you HAVE to get out of the house, but the park is out of the question and the pools and splash pads aren’t an option? Here are some of our favorite kids’ activities in Cedar Rapids – have you been to any of these? Any new ones we need to try?
Cedar Rapids Public Library – this is one of our favorites! There are frequent programs for toddlers and young kids during the day and evening, as well as tons of books, toys, and computers with kid-friendly games. They also have lots of DVDs and music albums you can borrow. Their Play & Learn program is awesome, and is offered in the evenings as well for working parents. The new library downtown is just gorgeous and one of my favorite spots to shoot!
Wickiup Hill Learning Center – This is just north of Cedar Rapids, but well worth the drive. There are tons of things to do there – sometimes they have special programming, or you can just explore at your own pace. Best of all, it’s FREE! The outdoor areas are really neat, but when you’d rather be inside, there are lots of options as well. My girls’ favorite area is the giant water table in the watershed learning center – splashing is encouraged!
AirFX Junior Jumpers – This is a GREAT way to let your kiddos burn off some energy! Junior Jumpers is for kids 6 and under, and is only $5 – one parent is included for free! There are weekday and weekend morning slots, and if you can’t make Junior Jumpers, they have a separate area just for younger ones during their regular hours. In addition to the trampolines, they also have arcade games and a concession stand – my girls always have a blast there!
Music on the Move – Lisa provides an awesome music class for ages 0-5, held at Baby Time. Every Thursday morning and one Saturday a month, kids are lead in singing, dancing, and playing instruments. Lisa is a board certified music therapist and is amazing with the kids!
Iowa Children’s Museum – If you’re up for the drive, there’s a ton to do at the Coral Ridge Mall. The Children’s Museum can keep my girls busy for hours, and all of their stations are so imaginative – great for creative play! There’s also a large indoor play place at the opposite end of the mall, as well as shopping, ice skating, and movies for the older kids.
(Phone picture) 😉
The Play Station – SO much fun to be had here! Lots of tunnels, slides, and climbing – and they even have Tot Tuesdays! Kids ages 1-4 are $4.50 on Tuesdays from 10-2. Great for when you have a little one who doesn’t want to get trampled by bigger kids!
When all else fails, Cedar Rapids Macaroni Kid has an incredible events calendar with a ton of local options for children – most for free or low cost!
Hopefully that gives you some ideas for some fun kids’ activities in Cedar Rapids – I’d love to hear if you have any others! I know I’m not the only one who’s ready for spring! <3
