Travel Destinations Iowa Iowa City, Iowa Top Things to Do in Iowa City The University of Iowa anchors the state’s original capital, where the old statehouse, a vaudeville-era theater and eclectic dining enliven a stay. By Midwest Living editors Midwest Living editors Midwest Living's experienced editors create best-in-class travel, lifestyle, food, home and garden content you won't find anywhere else. We're loudly, proudly Midwestern, and we're passionate about helping our audience explore and create through award-winning storytelling. Midwest Living's Editorial Guidelines Updated on March 14, 2024 The $176 million Hancher Auditorium replaced a building destroyed by flooding and now hosts a variety of special events. Photo: Courtesy of Miriam Alarcon Avila Home to the University of Iowa, Iowa City—the state's capital until 1857—appeals to visitors with campus museums, a range of dining options, and fun lodging that includes a retro rehab of a 1967 building. Things to Do Coral Ridge Mall A carousel, skating rink and children's museum amp up the fun at Coral Ridge Mall. The Englert Theatre The 1912 former vaudeville theater and opera house typically offers shows like readings, musicals, plays, dance performances and concerts. Hancher Auditorium A sleek, curving $176 million performing arts center replaced the University of Iowa's original auditorium, destroyed by flooding. Check the website for the latest information about events. Find restaurants, bars, shops along Iowa City's Ped Mall. Jason Donnelly The Iowa City Pedestrian Mall Abutting the University of Iowa campus, the Ped Mall is home to restaurants, bars and shops. A facelift added new seating, plants, and lighting. Prairie Lights Books Three floors of books and the long-running Live from Prairie Lights reading series have endeared this indie store to both locals and travelers. University of Iowa Museum of Natural History Two museums on campus merit a visit. At the Old Capitol Museum, retrace the footsteps of the state's founding fathers in Iowa's original Capitol; check for events like lectures. At the University of Iowa Museum of Natural History, learn about Iowa's 500 million years of history, see 1,000 birds on display, and say hi to Rusty the giant sloth replica. Where to Eat and Drink Baroncini Soft music and cozy booths set the tone for an evening of contemporary Italian dishes, such as house-made agnolotti pasta stuffed with local beef and pork in a brown butter sauce, at Baroncini. A game room and expansive patio are part of the fun at Big Grove Brewery. Austin Day Big Grove Brewery The international street food should clue you in that Big Grove Brewery isn't a typical brewpub. Come for the diverse menu as well as live music, brewed-on-site beers, the game room and an expansive patio. Hamburg Inn No. 2 Reopened in fall 2023 under new ownership, this downtown diner continues to offer its signature pie shakes and burgers. Maggie's Farm Wood-fired Pizza A beloved local farmers market stand has become a brick-and-mortar hot spot for those craving Napoli classic creations. Oasis Falafel Oasis Falafel is the place to go for authentic, inexpensive Middle Eastern fare, such as a pita bursting with falafel, hummus and Mediterranean salad. Pullman Bar and Diner The modern diner serves food both familiar and unexpected—fried chicken and corned beef hash, yes, but also roasted marrow bones with bacon jam. Try hard cider and dishes made with local produce at Wilson's Orchard. Adam Albright Wilson's Ciderhouse In a barn overlooking Wilson's Orchard 15 minutes from downtown, Wilson's Ciderhouse serves cocktails made with Wilson's excellent hard cider, and dishes inspired by local products. Where to Stay Graduate Iowa City A lobby filled with bookcases, reading nooks and (literally) writing on the walls reflect literary inspiration from the University of Iowa at this 231-room downtown hotel. Rooms at Highlander Hotel channel a 1960s vibe. KRUGER PHOTOGRAPHY The Highlander Hotel A retro rehab brought new life (and in-room record players) to this 1967 building, once a popular supper club. The Highlander Hotel now draws a diverse clientele, including families (there’s a big indoor pool) and groups of friends, but couples can make a romantic getaway here, too. More information: thinkiowacity.com Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit