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Iowa City

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About Iowa City

Perched on the banks of the Iowa River, Iowa City is an attractive arts and history hub, with plenty for couples, families and groups of friends. This friendly eastern city offers a range of accommodation options, including charming inns and funky urban resorts catering to an array of tastes and budgets. Whether you’re dreaming of an artsy break or a fun-filled group holiday, our list of the best places to stay in Iowa City has it covered.

Discover the region’s fascinating heritage at the Old Capitol Building and the University of Iowa Museum of Natural History. Admire the university campus’ buildings and pop into the Museum of Art, too. Iowa City’s vibrant student community encourages a creative, forward-thinking vibe, and you can expect excellent exhibitions, events and performances throughout the year. Catch a show at the Riverside Theatre, the Hancher Auditorium or the lovely Englert Theatre during your stay. Don’t miss the chance to catch a game at the Nile Kinnick Stadium.

Venture slightly further afield for the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library & Museum, the Mormon Handcart Site or hiking at the fascinating, 375 million-year-old Devonian Fossil Gorge. Outdoorsy visitors can also explore Wilson Orchard, go bird watching, kayaking or cycling at the Terry Trueblood Recreational Area and picnic at the picturesque Coralville Lake Visitor Centre in the summer months. But this is peak season, so book well in advance to guarantee a room at one of the best places to stay in Iowa City!

The Best Places to Stay in Iowa City

For a Charming Inn

  • Brown Street Inn offers six cosy guestrooms in a charming historic cottage within walking distance of many of the city's top sights. There are some wonderful historic homes just around the corner. Expect antique furnishings and a laid-back, welcoming feel. Perfectly placed for visiting the University of Iowa and appealingly affordable. For history-minded couples.

For Families or Groups

  • The Highlander Hotel is a funky urban resort with all that sociable travellers might hope for. Splash about in the indoor pool, get competitive in the games room, browse the vinyl lending library and gather around the courtyard firepit for evening drinks. Spaces suit families and groups of friends. Relaxed, modern and fun-loving. A party favourite, on the outskirts of the city.
  • Hotel Chauncey promises stylish, monochromatic rooms and suites, ideal for friends or families travelling together. Kitchens, dining areas and living rooms make this a great choice for independent or longer-stay visitors. Book a room with a balcony for downtown views. Wonderfully central!

FOR AN APARTMENT Holiday rental

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Eastern Iowa Airport in Cedar Rapids, 30 minutes' drive by car or bus from Iowa City. Des Moines International Airport — and the state capital itself — is just under two hours away.
  • Iowa is a wonderful state to explore by road. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel between June and September for hot, humid summers, with temperatures averaging between 25°C and 30°C. Winters are cold and snowy. Consider visiting in the spring or autumn for slightly cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

STILL NOT SURE?

Best Hotels in Iowa City

  • Brown Street Inn Iowa City 6 rooms from €126

    Local exploring  -  Leafy Brown Street Historical District is wonderfully tranquil yet easy to get to downtown Iowa City on foot
    Value chic  -  Stay in a well-located and inviting home-away-from-home without breaking the bank
    Sights nearby  -  Attractions in the area include Kalona Amish Settlement, Herbert Hoover National Historical Site and Devonian Fossil Gorge
    Restrictions on children  -  Children aged 12 years and above are welcome
    Air conditioningGardenParkingNo pets

    Colonial-style cottage in a quiet city suburb walking distance from the sites. Well-appointed and elegant rooms feature antique furnishings, brightly coloured walls and homely touches. Feel like part of the family across a range of welcoming public areas. Ideal for visiting the University of Iowa. See More

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  • The Highlander Hotel Iowa City 97 rooms from €144

    Families  -  Designed for week-day parties and family weekends; kids will love the laid-back feel, indoor pool, games and outdoor space
    Weddings  -  Great location for a slightly alternative rock star wedding; think large pool, sociable courtyard and anything-goes vibe
    Swimming Pool  -  The largest indoor pool in the area, its ideal for swimming lengths, kids playing or wild day parties
    Restaurant  -  The pool area's Snack Shack offers comfort food and light bites. Complimentary coffee and soda station is available 24/7
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    Funky urban resort located in former illustrious party hot spot. Indoor pool with a sociable games area and snack bar is the heart of the property; there's also a firepit courtyard and vinyl lending library. Range of rooms works for friends, groups & families. Fab spot for relaxed fun-loving guests. See More

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  • Hotel Chauncey Iowa City 51 rooms from €152

    Local exploring  -  Whether in town for work or play, the central downtown location means almost everything is walking distance
    Value chic  -  A total steal for so much square footage in the centre of town plus high-spec interiors
    Sights nearby  -  Catch a game or watch a show at Kinnick Stadium and Carver-Hawkeye Arena
    Views  -  All rooms boast amazing downtown Iowa City views
    Air conditioningPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    Stylish loft-style living in the heart of downtown. Minimalist monochrome suites offer incredible vistas over the urban landscape; enjoy views from large balconies and the rooftop terrace. With kitchens, dining and living areas, this is an ideal choice for long stays or independent travellers. See More

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