It’s Tuesday, June 24, 2025.

These Fourth of July fireworks shows in Iowa will have you “ooh-ing” and “ah-ing.” (Arthur Chauvineau/Unsplash)

We just survived our first heat wave—must be officially summer in Iowa now!

So here’s a quick guide of some of the best ways to enjoy it.

Like:

• Some of the most banging fireworks displays in the state;
• Activities for the whole family to make you feel like a kid again;
• Outdoor adventures, from river rafting to natural wonders;
• Free or discounted activities;
• The best ice cream and other summer treats!

Check them out below, share with a friend, or reply and tell us your faves.

Whether you’re camping, hiking, or crafting, here’s how to feel like a kid at camp this summer. (Hans Isaacson/Unsplash)

Who says that kids are the only ones who can have fun in the summer?

Scroll through for some fun ways to liven up your June, July, and August.

More ways to feel like a kid again:

• Plenty of putt-putt: 11 mini golf courses in Eastern Iowa
• Informative AND fun factory tours in Iowa
• Iowa’s 10 most Instagram-worthy state parks
• 7 Iowa zipline adventures for every thrill level
• These 4 Iowa drive-in movie theaters make for retro summer fun
• The 4 best water parks in Iowa, according to our research

Rafting in Iowa is fun for the whole family. (Anne Nygård/Unsplash)

Interested in river rafting in Iowa?

To help you plan your next trip, here’s a list of some of the best spots, along with other helpful info you should know.

More outdoor adventures:

• Fly fishing in Iowa: 6 beautiful & bountiful spots
• Uncover hidden gems: Iowa’s best state park views
• 6 awesome natural wonders in Iowa
• The 8 most underrated state parks in Iowa
• The top wildlife refuge in the nation is right here in Iowa
• Stand-up paddleboarding in Iowa: What to know & where to go

Libraries know how to keep kids busy during the summertime.

But did you know you can check out an “Adventure Pass” from your local library that will give you discounts or free admission to great attractions and museums all around the state?

More free and discounted fun:

• 4 free things to do for family fun in Des Moines
• 5 certified dark sky parks in Iowa to best see the stars
• 12 of Iowa’s wackiest roadside attractions
• Silver savings: The best senior discounts in Cedar Rapids

Ice cream parlors are the sweetest solution to Iowa’s hot summers, and thanks to our Starting Line Facebook friends, we now have 106 ice cream parlors to try this summer.

In case that list is too long for you, we’ve narrowed it down to just 30.

More summer treats:

• Forget chocolate & vanilla—these 12 Iowa ice cream shops offer funky flavors
• Dog-friendly bars, breweries, & restaurants in Davenport
• 10 brunch spots in Iowa with Bloody Mary bars
• Here are 13 Locally Owned BBQ Joints Iowans Love

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