By Fatima Salinas  

Longer days and warmer weather are finally here. 

With finals approaching, it’s important to find moments to recharge. Take advantage of the spring weather by studying outside, exploring a new spot on campus, or planning a picnic.  

Below are some suggestions to brighten the spring days ahead. 

Try a new coffee shop or restaurant 

The rising temperatures and sunny weather bring new opportunities to try more of the coffee shops and restaurants around Iowa City.  

From Java House, to The Encounter Cafe, and Hyper Energy Bar, each spot has unique drinks to cool down as the temperature rises. Additionally due to the warm weather, many outdoor spaces are starting to open – providing the perfect opportunity to venture out, sit outside, and support local businesses in Iowa City. 

Visit the pool at the Campus Recreation and Wellness Center 

Even though the pool is open year-round, the warm weather might motivate you to go swimming and relax at the Campus Recreation and Wellness Center or Field House. 

Recreational Services offers a variety of aquatics programs. These include swim lessons, open swim, lap swim, Masters Swim, an age group competitive swim club (the Iowa Flyers), and American Red Cross Certification Courses.   

If all you’re looking for is to relax and swim in the pool with friends, it is open to do that, too.  

Plan a picnic 

Campus has many beautiful outdoor spaces, and this time of year is the perfect time to take to explore these. Some ideas include: outside on the Pentacrest, Hancher, greenery on the West side, and parks around Iowa City. Bring a book, food, a friend or two, and use this opportunity to decompress, relax, and journal.  

Around this time, you’ll find many students laying out, relaxing, playing games or even soaking in the sunshine. This opportunity would be great to branch out and connect with your fellow peers.  

Start a new project or hobby 

As schedules wind down, you might find yourself with extra time in your day-to-day schedule. During this time, it could be fun to find a quick hobby to keep you occupied.  

You could focus on reading, exercising, or watching a new movie or TV series. Or learning to cook a new meal, bake, or create a bucket list for the summer. 

Plan an outing 

Whether it is a walk around campus, a hike, bike ride, attending a community event, or going beyond Iowa City, this time of year is perfect for traveling and being outside. The spring weather will bring many opportunities to move around campus and get connected with the community around you.  

For more information, make sure to check out the Downtown Iowa City events calendar and the UI event calendar for on-campus events.