Iowa City Travel Guide

Iowa City is an urban city in the midwest of the United States. With its home state, Iowa, sandwiched between the magnificent Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, the city is known for its endless corn fields, valleys, and grassy open plains, but also its daring culinary options and welcoming atmosphere.

Things to Do in Iowa City

The Terry Trueblood Recreation Area is one of the first places that visitors flock to, as word of its scenic natural beauty spreads like wildfire. Here, guests can take a walk or bike ride around the lake, or rent a paddle board, kayak, or canoe to take out onto the water. City Park is another popular relaxation destination for tourists, boasting an outdoor pool, an amphitheater for outdoor events and music, a sports field, and various rides for children.

Visitors can also spend the day admiring the various landmarks and historical sites in the city, which include the Museum of Natural History, the Old Capital Museum, and the one of a kind World’s Largest Wooden Nickel. A few other fun tourist activities include golf at Finkbine Golf Course, sampling Icelandic wines at Westfjords Winery, and enjoying live music and comedy, drinks, and pub-style treats at Yacht Club after dark.

Best Time to Visit Iowa City

The best time to visit Iowa City is during the fall. During this season, the temperatures during the day soar into the 70s, but nights are cool and perfect form moonlight walks.

Food in Iowa City

The restaurants that can be found in Iowa City pride themselves on providing high-quality dishes. The Bluebird Diner is open all night, serving updated versions of classic dishes. The Leaf Kitchen serves a variety of breakfast and lunch items and in-house baked cookies that are sweet and chewy. In contrast, Estela’s Fresh Mex creates authentic Mexican dishes with a touch of spice.

Best Events in Iowa City

Iowa City (and its surrounding areas) seem to be preparing for an event every day of the year, offering everything from the classic Fourth of July celebration to local festivals. Some of the more unique events hosted include the Maple Syrup Festival, Steam Fest, and the Mission Creek Festival.

Things to Do for Families in Iowa City

Those visiting Iowa City with children can head over to Wilson Orchard where they can, seasonally, pick their own apples and fresh fruit, and browse the on-site gift shop selling cute knick knacks and souvenirs.

Fun for both children and adults, the endless art opportunities at Renee’s Ceramic Cafe are a great way to kill spare time, as guests can paint pottery or canvas, and work with wood, glass, or clay- no appointment necessary.