If you're visiting with children, there's plenty of ways to keep the little ones entertained. The Iowa Children's Museum, located in Coralville just outside of Iowa City, is fun, educational, and extremely popular. The museum has a range of interactive permanent exhibits focusing on the arts, science, financial literacy, and health. There's also a whole slate of special events and workshops that are great for kids and families.
The University of Iowa Museum of Natural History is another fun choice for families. The oldest museum west of the Mississippi River, it has a wide range of geological and natural exhibitions. Check out the Biosphere Discovery Hub and the Laysan Island Cyclorama which simulates a 360-degree view of a Hawaiian island.