Iowa City,
Iowa City is a vibrant city in the state of Iowa, known for its historic charm and cultural diversity. Home to the University of Iowa, the city has a lively atmosphere with a mix of college town vibes and local community events. Visitors can explore the charming downtown area filled with unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
Iowa City also boasts beautiful outdoor spaces, including parks and trails along the Iowa River.
Places to visit
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring the City
morning:Start your day with a visit to the Old Capitol Building, a historic landmark. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious breakfast at the Hamburg Inn No. 2, known for its famous pie shakes.
afternoon:Explore the Pedestrian Mall for a unique shopping experience. Take a stroll through the Iowa Avenue Literary Walk, and grab lunch at the iconic Pullman Bar & Diner.
evening:End the day with a cultural experience at the Englert Theatre, followed by a night-out at the Clinton Street Social Club.
Outdoor Adventure
morning:Embrace the outdoors with a hike at Hickory Hill Park, offering serene nature trails. Afterward, enjoy a satisfying brunch at the Bluebird Diner.
afternoon:Experience the beauty of the Iowa River on a kayak tour. Visit the Iowa Old Capitol Museum for a glimpse into the city's history, and have a relaxing afternoon snack at Molly's Cupcakes.
evening:For the evening, head to Big Grove Brewery for local craft beers and live music.
Arts and Culture
morning:Start your day with a visit to the University of Iowa Museum of Art, home to diverse art collections. Treat yourself to a delightful breakfast at Konomi, known for its Japanese cuisine.
afternoon:Immerse yourself in creativity at the Iowa City Public Library. Explore the Iowa Contemporary Art exhibition at the Public Space One gallery, and enjoy a satisfying lunch at Trumpet Blossom Café.
evening:Attend a live performance at the Riverside Theatre, followed by a vibrant evening at Studio 13 for dancing and socializing.
Culinary Delights
morning:Embark on a culinary tour with a visit to the Downtown Farmers Market, offering a variety of local produce. Indulge in a scrumptious brunch at The Dandy Lion.
afternoon:Join a guided food tour to explore the diverse flavors of Iowa City. Visit the Iowa City Brewlab for a unique brewing experience and grab a quick bite at Nodo, known for its artisanal pizza.
evening:End the day with a fine dining experience at Baroncini Ristorante Italiano, followed by a night-out at the Iowa Chop House for a lively atmosphere and hearty brews.
Iowa City Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
A quintessential Iowa comfort food, the pork tenderloin sandwich features a breaded and fried pork tenderloin served on a bun with classic toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles. You can savor this dish at iconic spots like Hamburg Inn No. 2 and Shorts Burger & Shine.
Must-Try!
Corn Dog
Iowa's love for corn is evident in the famous corn dog, a hot dog coated in a thick layer of cornmeal batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. Visit the Iowa City Farmers Market or local fairs and events to indulge in this beloved snack.
Beef Tenderloin Tips
Tender and flavorful beef tenderloin tips, often accompanied by mashed potatoes or mixed vegetables, are a popular comfort food in Iowa City. Pull up a chair at Joseph's Steakhouse to savor this local favorite.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Iowa City Farmers Market
The Iowa City Farmers Market is a bustling hub of culinary delights, offering farm-fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats from local vendors. Don't miss the opportunity to sample freshly baked pastries, gourmet food trucks, and unique street food creations.
Taste of Iowa City
This annual event transforms the downtown area into a vibrant street food festival, showcasing a diverse array of cuisines from local restaurants and food vendors. It's the perfect opportunity to explore a wide range of flavors and indulge in tasty street food offerings.
Things to do in Iowa City
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Iowa City
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!