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Top 24 Hotels Near Colonial Lanes
2253 Old Hwy 218 S Iowa City, IA 52246
Hampton Inn Iowa City / University Area
Colonial Lanes is a simple drive from Hampton Inn Iowa City / University Area, a plan that ensures travel plans are always straightforward.
Hot breakfast service at Hampton Inn delivers dependable variety each morning, helping guests fuel up and establish clear routines. Each suite includes sofa beds, televisions, and lounge tables, creating comfortable zones where families can relax or dine together. Breakfast spaces with omelet stations, pastries, and hot entrees provide clarity and routine, ensuring mornings are consistent for guests.
Complimentary breakfast, EV charging, indoor pools, Pavilion Pantry counters, and Wi-Fi support balance that meets modern travel needs.
Courtyard by Marriott Iowa City University Heights
Because Courtyard by Marriott Iowa City University Heights is a straightforward drive from Colonial Lanes, guests can simply transition to the next part of their day.
In Courtyard lobbies, polished reception counters, bright lighting, and clear signage help travelers orient quickly and reduce stress. Each guest room provides smart TVs, coffee makers, and ergonomic chairs, ensuring convenience for entertainment and work alike. Guests visiting the business center use shared computers, Wi-Fi, and printers, practical amenities that support productivity daily.
Amenities include Starbucks® service, complimentary Wi-Fi, outdoor pools, and 24/7 markets, providing consistency for all travelers.
Hyatt Place Iowa City Downtown
In Iowa City, Hyatt Place Iowa City Downtown is situated a quick drive from Colonial Lanes, a position that makes travel easy.
Grab-and-go counters in Hyatt Place lobbies supply snacks, beverages, and travel basics, supporting convenient and flexible routines. All guest rooms include plush Hyatt Grand Beds®, blackout drapes, and climate controls, supporting restful nights and consistent comfort. Breakfast areas presenting hot selections, pastries, and cereals support clarity and convenience for both family and business travelers.
Fitness centers, meeting rooms, and reliable Wi-Fi pair with breakfast and indoor pools, covering both business and leisure routines.
Hilton Garden Inn Iowa City Downtown University
The hotel's spot an easy drive from Colonial Lanes gives Hilton Garden Inn Iowa City Downtown University guests a easy way to manage their daily schedule.
Hilton Garden Inn receptions include mobile check-in and Digital Key services, letting travelers bypass delays and begin their stay smoothly. Each suite includes rainfall showers, premium toiletries, and soft towels, letting guests refresh with a touch of comfort and care. Lobbies combining community seating, lounge bars, and natural light create welcoming hubs that foster connection and clarity.
Complimentary internet, hot breakfast, meeting rooms, self-parking, and laundry services give guests flexible convenience and ease.
Element Iowa City
The hotel's spot a quick drive from Colonial Lanes gives Element Iowa City guests options in how they plan their local travel.
Complimentary Rise breakfast at Element features healthy selections and fresh coffee, ensuring mornings begin with clarity and dependable care. Each guest room offers full kitchens with cooktops, dishwashers, and fridges, enabling long-stay guests to maintain home-style convenience easily. Business workspaces contain ergonomic chairs, outlets, and Wi-Fi, allowing continuity for professionals who need reliable office setups on trips.
Guests benefit from outdoor patios, complimentary Wi-Fi, pet-friendly stays, and self-parking, supporting comfort and balance across all visits.
Graduate by Hilton Iowa City
Reaching Colonial Lanes from Graduate by Hilton Iowa City is an easy drive, a feature that weaves convenience into the start of any day.
Hilton provides casual lobby bars and evening socials, creating rituals that encourage guests to relax and connect after check-in. Suites supply separate living areas, dining spaces, and smart TVs, creating environments that balance leisure and productivity daily. The fitness center with treadmills, ellipticals, and weights helps guests maintain wellness routines consistently while away from home.
Amenities like breakfast buffets, self-parking, Wi-Fi, and 24/7 markets simplify travel and create reliable convenience for families.
Heartland Inn
From Heartland Inn, Colonial Lanes is a simple drive, a detail that gives guests more command over their travel.
Heartland Inn typically provides a practical desk, nearby parking, and a small seating area designed to support swift guest arrivals. Accommodations often highlight comfortable bedding, Wi-Fi, and compact work surfaces, providing guests with simple and functional routines. Shared spaces may include modest lobbies, vending machines, and compact business corners that help reinforce functional routines.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, vending access, guest laundry, and continental breakfast, reinforcing functional ease in budget settings.
SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Coralville Iowa City
Because SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Coralville Iowa City keeps Colonial Lanes within easy reach, guests can choose to begin their day with a simple commute.
In roadside and suburban footprints, Best Western marks drop zones beneath canopies, making unloads predictable before vehicles proceed to park. Guest rooms, with crisp linens and supportive pillows, help muscles recover so wake-ups feel steadier and first hours run more smoothly. Guest laundries position detergent vending beside machines, reducing friction so items are ready before the next leg of the trip.
With co-working nooks, printers, Wi-Fi, and small meeting pods, short work blocks proceed smoothly while travel remains compact and on site.
Super 8 by Wyndham Iowa City / Coralville
A defining quality of the Super 8 by Wyndham Iowa City / Coralville experience in Iowa City is having Colonial Lanes within easy reach, which adds reliability to logistics.
Lobby seating at Super 8 includes simple chairs and tables, allowing families or groups to regroup comfortably after check-in. Guest rooms supply ergonomic chairs, large desks, and Wi-Fi, letting professionals remain productive while away from their offices. Breakfast counters serving cereals, coffee, and fruit make mornings smooth, giving guests predictable clarity across all stays.
Complimentary breakfast, free parking, and Wi-Fi connect with fitness centers and pools, ensuring clarity across family and leisure stays.
Hyatt Regency Coralville Hotel & Conference Center
From Hyatt Regency Coralville Hotel & Conference Center, the easy drive to Colonial Lanes is a core principle of accessibility uncomplicated that defines the beginning of the stay.
Open atrium layouts at Hyatt Regency reduce congestion, ensuring groups and solo guests can orient themselves without stress at check-in. Guest rooms supply ergonomic desks, ample outlets, and Wi-Fi, allowing travelers to maintain productivity while away from home. Fitness centers offering updated machines, open space, and stretching mats allow travelers to stay balanced while on the road.
Concierge desks, fitness centers, and breakfast buffets work alongside business centers, removing friction for travelers on the go.
Staybridge Suites Iowa City Coralville by IHG
This useful drive to Colonial Lanes from Staybridge Suites Iowa City Coralville by IHG is a key feature, as it frames a stay built around efficiency.
With automatic doors and level thresholds, Staybridge Suites keeps carts and strollers moving smoothly through the entry vestibule. Standard guest rooms include a trash-recycle pair and easy-wipe surfaces, making quick resets so spaces read tidy each day between uses. Computer alcoves with browser access and USB ports make quick uploads and ticket changes manageable near seating and the lobby printer.
With breakfast seating, tray returns, and steady coffee plus Wi-Fi and a market, morning flow stays organized during busy windows.
Quality Inn Coralville - Iowa River Landing
At Quality Inn Coralville - Iowa River Landing, Colonial Lanes is a simple drive, a core aspect that enhances the freedom of the guest.
Quality Inn positions charging nooks and small work surfaces near seating so quick emails and itinerary checks fit naturally into arrivals. Every guest room features a flat-screen TV with streaming and reliable Wi-Fi, combining entertainment with easy connectivity for calls. Co-working nooks provide modest privacy screens, outlets, and task lighting so quick calls and focused work happen away from crowds.
Family-focused amenities—laundry, mini-fridges, and pools—compress daily needs so itineraries stay compact and predictable for caregivers.
Comfort Inn & Suites Coralville - Iowa City near Iowa River Landing
For travelers who appreciate a direct route, Comfort Inn & Suites Coralville - Iowa City near Iowa River Landing is an easy drive from Colonial Lanes, making for a low-stress trip.
Comfort Inn arrival paths keep circulation clear from doors to elevators so groups with luggage move without bottlenecks. Suites add separate closets and extra counter space so luggage and meal setups remain organized outside the sleeping area for easy access. Business support desks handle parcel acceptance, printing, and small supplies, simplifying shipping needs and last-minute materials on site.
With accessible parking, EV charging where available, luggage storage, and Wi-Fi, arrivals and departures proceed with clear options.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Coralville - Iowa River Landing
At Homewood Suites by Hilton Coralville - Iowa River Landing, Colonial Lanes is a simple drive, a practical aspect that simplifies event-day travel.
Homewood Suites offers seating clusters near reception, allowing travelers to pause and coordinate plans before moving toward suites. Suites combine separate bedrooms, work tables, and smart TVs, offering balance for long-stay travelers managing multiple routines. Outdoor patios with grills and shaded tables offer families a chance to cook meals together and connect casually during extended stays.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, pet-friendly rooms, hot breakfast, and outdoor grills provide flexibility that eases stays for all travelers.
Hampton Inn Iowa City / Coralville
Reaching Colonial Lanes from Hampton Inn Iowa City / Coralville is a simple drive, a feature that weaves convenience into the start of any day.
Lobby coffee service at Hampton Inn reflects attention to detail, providing familiar comfort that eases arrivals and guest transitions. Every guest room contains microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers, providing guests convenient access to snacks and drinks anytime. Fitness facilities with ellipticals, resistance gear, and stretching zones keep wellness routines intact, helping guests stay balanced.
On-site markets, complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast bags, fitness studios, and laundry facilities provide dependable routines for travelers.
Holiday Inn Coralville Iowa City by IHG
This convenient commute to Colonial Lanes permits Holiday Inn Coralville Iowa City by IHG to be a convenient anchor before the on-site experience starts.
Holiday Inn & Suites designs incorporate statement lighting and natural finishes, reinforcing predictable brand identity worldwide. Guest rooms emphasize plush mattresses, blackout shades, and quiet HVAC systems, creating reliable comfort across every property. Business centers with computers, printers, and Wi-Fi access help professionals complete tasks and remain productive while traveling.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and fitness centers combine with self-parking and pools, covering essentials across every property.
Travelodge by Wyndham Iowa City
From the lobby of Travelodge by Wyndham Iowa City, Colonial Lanes is a simple cross-town drive for an easy commute, simplifying the visit.
Seating clusters in Travelodge lobbies provide regrouping spaces for families or colleagues, offering comfort while check-in is completed. All guest rooms present sofa seating, flat-screen HDTVs, and USB ports, creating functional spaces for relaxation and connectivity. Fitness rooms with cardio equipment, free weights, and stretching mats support balance and exercise routines across daily travel.
Free Wi-Fi, laundry, and breakfast buffets align with parking and vending, giving travelers clarity across both short and long trips.
The Highlander Hotel Iowa City an Ascend Collection Hotel
Colonial Lanes is an easy drive from The Highlander Hotel Iowa City an Ascend Collection Hotel, a layout that ensures travel logistics are always straightforward.
At The Highlander Hotel Iowa City an Ascend Collection Hotel, arrivals typically blend refined décor, professional staff, and complimentary infused water to shape an upscale welcome. Guest rooms often present refined furnishings, plush bedding, and bathrooms finished with marble or stone to reflect upscale standards. Facilities may provide stylish lounges, refined restaurants, and wellness services that underscore a sophisticated guest impression.
Guests may encounter elegant lounges, wellness facilities, valet parking, and Wi-Fi, reinforcing polished consistency during travel.
Comfort Suites Coralville I-80
This easy drive to Colonial Lanes from Comfort Suites Coralville I-80 helps guests to feel oriented and comfortable in the Iowa City area.
With canopy or sheltered entries in many locations Comfort Suites helps guests avoid weather exposure while luggage is handled efficiently. Standard guest rooms provide easy-access outlets near desks and beds, letting charging and last-minute prep happen without hunting for plugs. Guest vending corners stock batteries, toiletries, and snacks so travelers avoid late-night trips off property during busy stays.
With business centers, printing, and fast internet, last-minute copies and slides are handled on site to keep meetings running smoothly.
Holiday Inn Express Coralville by IHG
This useful drive to Colonial Lanes from Holiday Inn Express Coralville by IHG is a key element, because it ensures the stay is built on simplicity.
Reception areas at Holiday Inn Express are supported by attentive staff, reinforcing dependable service at the start of each stay. Each guest room contains branded bath amenities, walk-in showers, and soft towels, supporting refreshing morning and evening routines. Business corners equipped with computers, Wi-Fi, and printers allow travelers to handle urgent work tasks quickly and conveniently.
Pet-friendly accommodations, breakfast buffets, and Wi-Fi link with fitness centers and parking, delivering family convenience daily.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Coralville
At SpringHill Suites by Marriott Coralville, Colonial Lanes is within easy reach, a useful aspect that simplifies event-day travel.
With fresh design elements and comfortable communal zones, SpringHill Suites creates a first impression that balances energy with relaxation. Suites highlight open layouts, sofa seating, and entertainment options, offering families and groups flexibility to rest and connect comfortably. The lobby lounge contains communal tables, sofas, and charging hubs, creating a central hub that supports relaxed conversation and productivity.
Amenities include self-parking, complimentary breakfast, a 24/7 Market, and fitness facilities, giving guests convenient comfort throughout.
Woodspring Suites Coralville Iowa City
Because Woodspring Suites Coralville Iowa City keeps Colonial Lanes a simple drive, guests can decide to start their day with a moment of quiet reflection.
After a late arrival, WoodSpring Suites directs guests to dial x500 from lobby phones for check-in support, keeping access consistent. Standard guest rooms include microwaves, stovetops, and sinks, keeping extended-stay routines straightforward and self-sufficient. Vending machines throughout corridors extend quick snack options, keeping guests supported during long stays or odd-hour arrivals.
Between wireless internet, refrigerators, microwaves, and housekeeping, travelers keep connected while sustaining daily independence.
Home2 Suites Iowa City Coralville
This convenient location makes Colonial Lanes within easy reach from Home2 Suites Iowa City Coralville, ensuring a simple start.
With colorful art, playful décor, and music playlists, Home2 Suites creates a lively lobby environment that energizes every arrival. Suites present sofa beds, smart TVs, and dining areas, offering convenience and flexibility for relaxation or casual gatherings. In the laundry room, washers, dryers, and detergent dispensers give long-stay travelers practical tools to maintain clothing routines.
Guests access breakfast, fitness centers, markets, and Wi-Fi, enjoying routines that combine convenience with daily reliability.
Residence Inn by Marriott Coralville
In Iowa City, Residence Inn by Marriott Coralville's location a simple drive from Colonial Lanes lets guests commute easily before their stay begins.
Natural lighting and open seating in Residence Inn receptions give parts of arrival flow clarity while reinforcing branded hospitality tone. Each suite offers dining tables, coffee makers, and microwaves, giving guests flexible setups that support meals or snacks anytime. Fitness facilities with free weights, cardio equipment, and stretching mats support wellness balance while reinforcing travel consistency.
Meeting rooms, complimentary breakfast, outdoor pools, concierge services, and high-speed internet keep routines efficient and stress-free.
Book as a group & pay separately.
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Colonial Lanes Local Area Guide
Welcome to the Colonial Lanes Local Area Guide, designed to help you plan your visit to this popular Iowa City entertainment hub. Whether you're coming for a casual afternoon of bowling, a lively birthday party, or a competitive league night, this guide will orient you to the surrounding area. Discover nearby attractions, dining options, essential services, and local insights to make your experience smooth and enjoyable. We'll cover everything from getting around to finding the best spots for a bite or a break, ensuring you have all the information you need to make the most of your time in Iowa City.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Colonial Lanes (Iowa City, IA)
Colonial Lanes is situated in the southern part of Iowa City, easily accessible from major roadways that connect the city to the wider region. Its location along Old Highway 218 South places it in a dynamic area that blends suburban convenience with proximity to urban amenities. Major access points include Highway 218 itself, which provides a direct route north into downtown Iowa City and south towards other communities. Interstate 80 is also a short drive away, offering broader connectivity across Iowa. For travelers, the Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) is the nearest major air hub, located approximately 20-30 minutes north, depending on traffic. Public transportation options within Iowa City are available, though less frequent in this particular area, making personal vehicles or rideshares common for many visitors. Smart arrival tactics involve understanding that traffic can increase during peak evening hours, especially on weekends, so allowing a little extra time can prevent stress. Parking at Colonial Lanes is typically ample and straightforward, but during large events or league finals, it can fill up.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Colonial Lanes
The area immediately surrounding Colonial Lanes is primarily characterized by commercial development, with a scattering of residential neighborhoods. While Colonial Lanes is a destination in itself, a cluster of hotels can be found a short drive north towards the heart of Iowa City, particularly near the University of Iowa campus and the downtown district. Many visitors opt for accommodations in these central areas, offering a wider range of amenities and dining choices, and then drive or take a rideshare to Colonial Lanes. For those seeking convenience, some more budget-friendly motel-style options might be situated closer to the highway interchanges. Demand for accommodations can spike around university sporting events or major downtown festivals, so booking in advance is always recommended. When searching for lodging, utilize map filters to identify hotels that offer easy access to Highway 218 South and consider properties that provide a good balance between proximity to downtown attractions and the short drive needed to reach Colonial Lanes.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) is about a 25-minute drive north from Colonial Lanes.
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early for leagues or parties to secure parking and check in smoothly.
- Short drive to downtown Iowa City for diverse food, drink, and entertainment options.
- Hy-Vee grocery store offers ready-to-eat meals and supplies, a short drive away.
- Colonial Lanes itself is a great regrouping spot for teams and families.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
As your group arrives, the initial focus is on getting settled and ready to bowl. Aim to arrive about 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled start time, especially for leagues or booked parties. This buffer allows ample time for parking, locating your assigned lanes, and heading to the check-in counter or host. If you're part of a league, check-in procedures might involve signing a roster or confirming your team's presence. For parties, the host will likely guide you to your designated area. The main concourse provides a good space to gather, put on bowling shoes, and perhaps grab a quick drink before stepping up to the lanes. Don't forget to set up any personal items, like bags or jackets, in the designated areas near your lanes to keep the approach clear.
Mid-Day Regroup
Bowling can involve periods of waiting between turns, making it ideal for regrouping and enjoying the social atmosphere. Colonial Lanes offers an in-house snack bar, a convenient spot to grab refreshments and light bites without straying far from the action. This is a perfect time to refuel with a snack, review scores, or simply chat with teammates and family members. If you have a longer break between games or if some members of your group are not bowling, they can find comfortable seating in the lounge area or near the arcade. For those looking for more substantial options, a short drive outside the immediate vicinity opens up a variety of restaurants for a more complete meal.
Wrap-Up & Departure
As your bowling session concludes, the focus shifts to wrapping up and planning your departure. Ensure all personal belongings are collected from the lanes and surrounding areas. If you participated in a league or event, be sure to check for any final score reporting or standings updates. Payment for lane time, shoe rentals, or any food and beverages should be settled at this point. The parking lot can become busy as multiple groups depart, so exercise patience when exiting. If you've arranged for rideshare services, designate a clear pick-up point to ease the coordination. For those heading home or to nearby accommodations, consider any evening traffic patterns on Highway 218 or in downtown Iowa City.
Things to Do Near Colonial Lanes
Walkable
Colonial Lanes Arcade
While primarily a bowling alley, Colonial Lanes features an on-site arcade with a variety of video games and redemption games. It's a perfect spot for younger bowlers or anyone looking for a bit of competitive fun between frames. The arcade offers a lively atmosphere with flashing lights and energetic sounds, providing a classic entertainment experience. Prizes can often be won by collecting tickets redeemed from various games. This is a convenient way to extend the entertainment value of your visit without needing to leave the facility. It’s a great option for a quick break or for those who finish their bowling games before others.
0.0 miColonial Lanes Bar & Grill
The integrated bar and grill at Colonial Lanes serves as a convenient hub for refreshments and casual dining during your visit. Offering a selection of snacks, appetizers, and main dishes, it caters to bowlers looking to refuel between games or families seeking a bite after an active session. The bar area provides a relaxed setting to enjoy a drink and catch up, while tables offer a more traditional dining experience. It's an ideal spot for birthday parties, league gatherings, or simply to enhance the overall bowling outing. Patrons can expect casual fare perfect for a laid-back atmosphere.
On site5–15 Minutes Away
University of Iowa Campus
The University of Iowa campus, located just a short drive north, offers a vibrant atmosphere and numerous attractions. Explore the beautiful pedestrian mall downtown, visit the Stanley Museum of Art, or catch a performance at Hancher Auditorium. The campus itself is a pleasant place for a walk, with historic buildings and scenic green spaces. During the academic year, the energy is palpable, with students frequenting local businesses and cafes. Depending on the season, you might catch a Hawkeyes sporting event or other university-hosted activities, adding another layer of potential engagement to your visit.
3.3 miOld Capitol Museum
The Old Capitol Museum, a National Historic Landmark, offers a glimpse into Iowa's rich history. Housed in the original capitol building of the state, it features exhibits on the state's political past, early settlement, and university history. The building's architecture is impressive, and its central location makes it an easy addition to a downtown Iowa City itinerary. Guided tours are often available, providing in-depth historical context. It's a quiet and educational counterpoint to the lively entertainment at Colonial Lanes, perfect for those interested in local heritage.
3.7 miBeyond the Event: Just beyond the immediate 15-minute radius, you can find larger shopping centers, more diverse dining experiences, and extensive recreational areas like Hickory Hill Park. The greater Iowa City area offers ample opportunities for exploration, ensuring that a visit to Colonial Lanes can be easily combined with other activities. Consider planning a full day or weekend that incorporates a mix of entertainment, cultural exploration, and local flavor.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Colonial Lanes
Inside & Adjacent
Colonial Lanes Snack Bar
The Snack Bar at Colonial Lanes provides convenient, casual food options right within the bowling alley. It’s the go-to spot for quick bites, satisfying hunger pangs between turns or during breaks. You can expect typical comfort food fare like pizza, burgers, chicken tenders, and fries, alongside a selection of beverages including soda and beer. It’s designed for easy consumption, allowing bowlers to stay close to the action while enjoying a meal or snack. This is an essential amenity for any long bowling session or party, ensuring energy levels stay high.
On siteConey Island Drive-In
A local classic, Coney Island Drive-In offers a nostalgic fast-food experience with a focus on classic American fare. Known for its hot dogs, burgers, and milkshakes, it’s a popular spot for quick, satisfying meals. The drive-in atmosphere adds to its charm, making it a fun, casual stop. It’s ideal for grabbing a bite before or after your bowling excursion, especially if you’re craving straightforward, crowd-pleasing food. Their menu is designed for speed and value, making it a practical choice for families and groups.
2.3 miNearby Gathering Spots
Big Grove Brewery & Taproom
Big Grove Brewery is a popular Iowa City destination known for its craft beers brewed on-site and a lively atmosphere. They offer a robust food menu featuring elevated pub fare, including unique burgers, sandwiches, and shareable plates. The spacious taproom often hosts events and live music, making it a great gathering spot for groups looking for a more social experience after bowling. With a wide selection of beers on tap, it caters to a variety of tastes, and the energetic environment makes it suitable for both casual meetups and celebratory occasions.
3.1 miSoseki
For a more refined dining experience, Soseki offers an innovative take on Japanese cuisine, specializing in omakase and high-quality sushi. Located downtown, it provides an elegant setting for a special meal or an impressive culinary adventure. The focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and meticulous preparation makes Soseki a standout choice for those seeking exceptional food. It’s a sophisticated option for a group celebrating a successful league season or looking for a memorable meal after a day of activity, offering a contrast to the casual vibe of bowling.
3.5 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Formosa Chinese Restaurant
Formosa offers a wide array of traditional Chinese dishes, serving authentic flavors in a comfortable setting. It's a long-standing favorite in Iowa City for those seeking classic Chinese takeout or a sit-down family meal. The extensive menu covers a range of regional specialties, ensuring there’s something to satisfy diverse palates. Its convenient location makes it a good option for picking up food to enjoy elsewhere or for a relaxed dinner after an afternoon of bowling, providing a familiar and dependable culinary choice.
2.5 miTavern Blue
Tavern Blue presents a modern American menu with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering a polished dining experience. Located in downtown Iowa City, it features a stylish interior and a well-curated selection of dishes, from appetizers to entrees. The restaurant also boasts an impressive drink menu, including craft cocktails and a thoughtful wine list. It’s an excellent choice for groups looking for a quality meal in a contemporary setting, providing a sophisticated option that complements a fun day of bowling with a touch of class.
3.6 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Traffic on Highway 218 can be slow during weekday rush hours and on weekends, especially near event times.
- The University of Iowa campus area, particularly downtown and the pedestrian mall, is usually bustling during the academic year.
- If visiting during a major Hawkeyes football game, expect significantly increased crowds and traffic throughout the city.
- Many local restaurants, especially those downtown, can get very busy on Friday and Saturday nights; reservations are advised.
- Parking in the downtown core can be challenging, particularly during university events or festivals; utilize parking garages.
Weather & Seasons at Colonial Lanes
- Winter: Winter in Iowa City typically brings cold temperatures, often with single-digit highs and freezing lows, accompanied by snow and ice. Visitors should pack heavy, insulated clothing, including warm coats, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots. Shorter daylight hours mean indoor activities are favored, and icy conditions can make driving and walking hazardous, so allow extra travel time and exercise caution.
- Spring & early summer: Spring sees temperatures gradually warm from chilly to mild, with increasing chances of rain showers and occasional thunderstorms. Early summer continues this trend, with days becoming consistently warm and pleasant. Packing layers is advisable, including light jackets or sweaters for cooler mornings and evenings. Outdoor activities become more feasible, but quick-changing weather means always being prepared for a pop-up rain shower.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer is characterized by warm to hot and humid conditions, with average temperatures often in the high 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit. Light, breathable clothing is essential. While sunny days are common, the humidity can make it feel warmer, and the potential for strong thunderstorms persists. Staying hydrated and seeking shaded areas or indoor venues like Colonial Lanes during peak heat is a good strategy.
- Fall season: Fall brings cooler, crisp air and vibrant foliage, with temperatures transitioning from mild to cold. Mornings and evenings can be quite chilly, while afternoons may remain pleasant. Layering is key, with sweaters, light jackets, and perhaps a warmer coat as the season progresses. This is a popular time for outdoor activities, but be ready for fluctuating temperatures, especially as October turns into November.
- Rain & snow: Rainfall is common throughout the spring and summer, often manifesting as moderate showers or significant thunderstorms that can cause localized flooding. Winter brings snow and ice, which can lead to travel disruptions. Always check local weather forecasts and road conditions before heading out. Pack appropriate rain gear or snow essentials depending on the season, and be prepared for potential delays or adjusted plans due to adverse weather.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: University of Iowa Hawkeyes
- Neighborhood: South Iowa City Commercial Area
- Nearest airport: Eastern Iowa Airport (CID)
- Parking: On-site lot
- Walkable district: Limited to venue amenities
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Hy-Vee (short drive north)
- Pharmacy: CVS or Walgreens (short drive north)
- Urgent care: UI Health Care Urgent Care (short drive north)
- Downtime: Nearby cafes or University of Iowa campus
- Pro tip: Book league nights or parties well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

