Mercer Park

If you’re going to one park in Iowa City with kids, honestly this is probably the one. The playground equipment is modern and actually holds up to real use — the accessible swings are a genuine plus, not an afterthought. Shade trees and covered seating mean parents aren’t just standing around baking in July while the kids do their thing. There’s a walking path too, so you can get some steps in while everyone else burns off energy. Parking, restrooms, benches — it’s all here, and it all works.