Well it seems as if the warm, snowless weather that December promised us for most of the month has come to an end. If you don’t believe me, just look at the snow on the ground around campus and the 0 degree weather that has taken over the first couple weeks as classes have started. Now don’t go on complaining about this weather because I can remember lots of us were super excited for the leggings/boot/scarves/hot cocoa weather, so its time to embrace it now, especially in returning to the wonderful city of Iowa City.
Let’s go over some super fun winter activities that can be found around Iowa City…
Ice Skating
Now I couldn’t find anywhere around us that has outdoor ice skating, but the indoor skating rink at Coralridge Mall is the perfect place to have some great winter fun without the super cool temps. Whether you’re interested in a fun winter date or a fun girls day out, this place is a great way to have fun!
Sledding
What’s better than standing and looking at the perfection of the University of Iowa Pentacrest?
Ummm, maybe sledding down the back of it! The hill right behind the Old Capitol downtown is a popular sledding spot for many students. Just make sure you slow down before the road! Another place that’s great for sledding is right behind Hillcrest. That crazy big hill that everyone hates walking up after classes is the perf place to slide down. Just go buy a dollar sled and gather a few buddies, and you’re set.
SNOW BALL FIGHT!
Iowa City is the home to over 42 parks, which are the perfect places to hunker down, make a fort, and start throwing balls of snow back and forth with your friends. Yes, it sounds a bit childish, but why not channel your inner child with a harmless little war. The parks also have great trails that are even cleared for walking in the winter. Our city is full of endless opportunities when it comes to nature. Go beyond the city, and do some exploring!
Coffee, warmth, and a nice book.
If you’re not really about the whole dressing in five layers of clothes and diving in the snow, there’s nothing wrong with hiking down the road and finding your favorite coffee shop. Many of the coffee shops downtown have comfy areas to sit and big windows that allow you to watch the miraculous little snowflakes fall. It may not be the typical winter activity, but it most definitely is my favorite.
Happy winter, collegiettes!
Photos:
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