• Bennett
• Princeton
• Tipton
• Millersburg
• Parnell
• Marengo
• Hills
• Keota
• Crawfordsville
• Atalissa
• Oxford
• Lone Tree
• Kalona
• Wellman
• Riverside
• Williamsburg
• Amana Colonies
• Solon
• University Heights
• West Branch
• Tiffin
• Corridor
• Washington
• North Liberty
• Coralville

Iowa City was established in 1839 after Governor Robert Lucas advocated for moving the territorial capital from Burlington to a more centrally located area. The city officially became the capital in 1841 following the start of construction on the capitol building, though the state capital was later relocated to Des Moines.

Growth continued throughout the 20th century as transportation and commercial development expanded across the region. In 1963, construction began on Interstate 80 near Coralville, improving regional access and encouraging new residential and business development throughout the Iowa City area. Continued expansion followed, including the opening of Coral Ridge Mall in 1996, now one of the largest indoor shopping centers in Iowa and a major retail destination for the region.

Because Iowa City is home to a major university, its population naturally fluctuates throughout the year. Even when students leave for the summer, the city remains active with festivals, outdoor events, and community activities. Residents enjoy a vibrant mix of dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions that create the perfect balance between a lively Saturday night and a relaxing Sunday morning.

Iowa City offers an impressive variety of restaurants, local shops, and historic attractions, many located within the walkable downtown district. University sporting events take place year-round, bringing energy and community spirit to the area. If you are looking for even more options, nearby communities such as Coralville and North Liberty are just minutes away and provide additional shopping, recreation, and entertainment opportunities.

The University of Iowa plays a central role in community life, offering residents access to world-class healthcare through University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, including the nationally recognized Stead Family Children’s Hospital. The hospital overlooks Kinnick Stadium, where fans participate in the beloved “Iowa Wave” tradition during Hawkeye football games.

University of Iowa: The University of Iowa is one of the nation’s premier public research universities with over 30,000 students from 114 countries and all 50 states. Founded in 1847, it is the state’s oldest institution of higher education. UI is home to one of the largest and most acclaimed medical centers in the country, as well as the famous Iowa Writers’ Workshop. Famous alumni include Gene Wilder, Ashton Kutcher and Tennessee Williams.

Sports at the University of Iowa: No matter the season, you will find packed stadiums and seats for practically every sport offered at the University. This includes the popular Kinnick Stadium for football and the Carver Arena for men’s and women’s basketball.

Downtown Iowa City: The Downtown District is the economic and cultural engine of the Iowa City community. It is home to a wide variety of independent, locally-owned boutiques, shops, and some of the very best in dining and entertainment, and is a place where University and local business innovations merge.

Riverside Theatre: Riverside Theatre is a professional theatre that connects artists and audiences through intimate, engaging, and provocative productions from the classics to new works, and provides an artistic home for regional theatre professionals

Englert Theatre: The Englert Theater provides diverse programming, educational opportunities and exposure to the performing and visual arts. They focus on highlighting the talents of local performers, artists and ensembles as well as hosting regional, national and international touring performances. They have also expanded the Englert’s programming vision and collaborative efforts beyond the walls of the theater through institutional efforts like Mission Creek Festival and Witching Hour. You can also take a tour of this historical building.

Old Capitol Museum: Old Capitol Museum has been in operation since 1976, when the building reopened after a major renovation. It is the only National Historic Landmark in Iowa City. Throughout its long history, the building has served as a seat of the territorial and state governments, a university building serving numerous schools and colleges, administrative offices, and finally a museum. Today, it serves the University and Iowa City communities through beautifully restored historic interiors, temporary exhibits, programming and education resources for all ages.

The University of Iowa Museum of Natural History: The University of Iowa Museum of Natural History was founded by an order of the Iowa Legislature in 1858 and is the oldest university museum west of the Mississippi River. It combines exhibits, education resources, programming, collections and research opportunities to support the University of Iowa and the community.

Herbert Hoover National Historic Site: Herbert Hoover National Historic Site tells the story of the 31^st President of the United States—who was born in West Branch—by preserving historic buildings and a landscape that commemorates his life and accomplishments. The site also includes the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library-Museum.

Tipton’s Farmers Market: Every Thursday afternoon, you can drop by the best farmers market in Cedar County. In the colder months, it runs 3-5 pm and in the warmer months, when it moves outdoors, it is 4-6 pm. In the summer months, you can enjoy live music playing from the gazebo. From homemade candles to fresh eggs and vegetables, everyone can find something to enjoy at the market.

Cedar County Historical Society Museum & Prairie Village: Visit the museum to learn about the history of the area, including a list of the names of every soldier who has fought bravely in every war since the Civil War. You can also view information from the Scattergood Hostel where refugees from World War II and the Holocaust went for safety and other rotating exhibits from local churches and individuals. The Prairie Village is a walk into the past with historic sites still preserved, including the “Bed Bug” schoolhouse, which shows students today what a country school was like.

• University of Iowa
• University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics
• Sports at the University of Iowa
• Downtown Iowa City
• Riverside Theatre
• Englert Theatre
• Old Capitol Museum
• The University of Iowa Museum of Natural History
• Coralville Farmers Market
• Coralville Center for Performing Arts
• Coral Ridge Mall
• Lake MacBride State Park
• Herbert Hoover National Historic Site
• Herbert Hoover Presidential Library-Museum
• Tipton’s Farmers Market
• Cedar County Historical Society Museum & Prairie Village
• Amana Colonies Visitors Center
• Amana Heritage Society