Iowa City
An UNESCO City of Literature
Arts, culture, education and athletics is the bedrock upon which Iowa City is built. The capital of Iowa for ten years until 1857, legislators traded that designation for the honor of becoming home to the new State University of Iowa. The gold-domed Old Capitol building, now the centerpiece of the University campus, provides the backdrop for myriad festivals and events throughout the year. Downtown Iowa City pulses with live music and sidewalk cafés, a robust retail landscape and author readings in iconic bookshops. A UNESCO City of Literature for ten years on, Iowa City also boasts a renowned Book Festival and a children’s literature event called One Book Two Book. These gems, combined with world class healthcare, a top-notch school district, and terrific recreational opportunities, make Iowa City an enviable place to call home.
Community Highlights
Great Restaurants
Dozens of great restaurants abound in Iowa City running the gamut from Fusion Asian and authentic Italian to the best of American steakhouses with everything in between. Three seasons a year we enjoy dining al fresco as the restaurant patios open their doors and diners spill onto the city streets.
Lively Arts and Culture
From the Englert Theatre, FilmScene and UNESCO City of Literature events to fourteen weeks of festivals and outdoor live music, Iowa City’s events calendar is packed. Highlights include the Iowa City Jazz Festival, Mission Creek Festival, Iowa Arts Festival, and the Friday Night Concert Series, all downtown.
Top tier Health care
Iowa City ranks second in the nation for physician to population ratio, and is home to three hospitals, of which the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, the 5th largest teaching hospital in the United States, is ranked best in the state.
Vibrant College Town
Ranked #25 in the top 50 best college towns, Iowa City is smart! More than 45% of area residents over age 25 have completed four or more years of college. Between the University of Iowa and Kirkwood Community College, there are hundreds of academic programming options offered for every age each year.
Top tier Health care
Iowa City ranks second in the nation for physician to population ratio, and is home to three hospitals, of which the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, the 5th largest teaching hospital in the United States, is ranked best in the state.
Vibrant College Town
Ranked #25 in the top 50 best college towns, Iowa City is smart! More than 45% of area residents over age 25 have completed four or more years of college. Between the University of Iowa and Kirkwood Community College, there are hundreds of academic programming options offered for every age each year.
Downtown Iowa City & Ped Mall
As authentic as it is unique and cutting edge, Downtown Iowa City is unlike any other in the U.S. At the heart of it all is the Pedestrian Plaza, affectionately known as the Ped Mall. Dozens of boutiques and eateries line the streets and all are within an easy walk of more than 3,000 spots to park.