Pokemon GO is essentially a virtual geocaching mobile app. The game utilizes your phone's GPS to detect where you are and will show you a map to where the next Pokemon is located. There are several Pokestops throughout our city, most at historical locations, libraries, parks and businesses to get more Pokeballs, eggs and other Pokeswag. You should check the app everywhere you go to find more Pokemon, because the goal is to catch them all! I have created a list from readers of the top five Pokestops in the Corridor area!
1. Green Square in Cedar Rapids
Have you been lately? It has been completely revamped and is absolutely beautiful. Make it a play date and pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the new and improved Green Square in Cedar Rapids.
2. Thomas Park in Marion
Thomas park has a little bit of everything for everyone. Splash pad, playgrounds, trails, and so much more. Plan ahead for the Swamp Fox Car Cruise-in coming in September.
3. Ellis Park in Cedar Rapids
Enjoy fishing, trails, playgrounds and lots of great nooks and cranny's for taking family pictures. This summer you can also enjoy Cedar Rapids Municipal Band Concerts, Ski Team Water Shows, and more. Check out our calendar for more events happening at Ellis Park
4. Noelridge Park in Cedar Rapids
Beautiful landscaping, greenhouse, lagoon and pavilion. Time it to coincide with their Jazz under the Stars events coming up soon!
5. Ped Mall in Iowa City
Make a day of it at the Ped Mall in downtown Iowa City. Shop from local stores, visit the library, play on the playground. Plan your visit during one of the Summer of the Arts Events!
BONUS finds in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City Suggestions from readers:
Coralville and Iowa City:
"Wartortle a block east of North Ridge Park"
"Pikachu on 10th st., Gengar and Kadabra in Hy-Vee parking lot, Snorlax at I80 & Hwy 965"
"Ryhorn, Jigglypuff and Clefairy in the Marriott in Coralville area."
"The Thornberry Dog Park across the river from Coralville, the rarest Pokémon in the gyms across the river."
Cedar Rapids:
While you are playing Pokemon GO it is very important to stay alert, be careful of your surroundings and utilize common sense. Here are a few pointers we have put together to ensure you have a pleasant Pokemon GO experience."Wartortle a block east of North Ridge Park"
"Pikachu on 10th st., Gengar and Kadabra in Hy-Vee parking lot, Snorlax at I80 & Hwy 965"
"Ryhorn, Jigglypuff and Clefairy in the Marriott in Coralville area."
"The Thornberry Dog Park across the river from Coralville, the rarest Pokémon in the gyms across the river."
Cedar Rapids:
Gyms: Encounter Christian Church, Bottleworks, NewBo City Market, Lindale Mall Fountain,
"Lots of Pokestops by Cedar Rapids Library"
"Squirtle near Rockwell Daycare"
"Lots of Pokestops by Cedar Rapids Library"
"Squirtle near Rockwell Daycare"
- Do not play and drive. Distracted driving is the cause of many accidents. We know it's tempting, but it's just not safe.
- Don't get tripped up, look up! Be aware of your surroundings. It's easy to follow a GPS map blindly but remember to look up. Trees, bumps, moving vehicles, and debris are not on the map.
- Don't Poke in the dark. We get it. You're addicted. You wanna catch them all and catch them all now. But lingering in the dark, alone, with a cell phone is never a good idea. We recommend catching Pokemon as a family, during the day and utilize caution when going to new areas.
- Poke around with friends and family. Nobody wants to wander around alone. Bring friends and family. It will keep you more alert and aware of your surroundings. Plus it will be a bonding experience.
- Afraid your kids will be to tempted wander? Only download the app on an adult's phone. If it's on your child's phone enforce safety rules and boundaries of where they can play Pokemon GO and when.
- The game is not a race. The Pokemon will wait for you, nobody can steal them. There is no reason to speed or drive recklessly.
No matter where you go hunting Pokemon as a family, I'm sure it will be worth the trip. Where are your favorite spots to to play Pokemon GO? Let us know!
To get the scoop on family fun in Cedar Rapids, Iowa sign-up to receive our kid-friendly event calendar and e-newsletter HERE! For the scoop in Iowa City click HERE.
