Downtown Iowa City, Iowa

Hotels

Hotel Tips

Not all online booking systems are fully integrated with hotel reservations systems so there is a chance that smaller hotels are hand entering your stay from a fax machine which leaves room for errors. Book directly with hotel to avoid any problems and ask for a price match if you find a better price online.

Call ahead to make sure your reservation is still active and rebook if there are any price drops or changes in number of people staying with you. Another cost saving tips is to bundle the stay with airport parking and shuttle to avoid hefty fees.

Policies vary on the availability of pet friendly rooms to it is wise to be open, honest and upfront during the booking process. You may find yourself kicked out or even paying a large deposit if you are not in a pet-friendly hotel and bring one anyway. New ADA laws are fuzzy though as service animals are not required to be documented and proprietors are legally not allowed to ask if the animal is a pet vs. a service animal.

Things To Do

Iowa City makes shopping for wine and other spirits easy by bringing an incredible collection sourced from local, regional well-known producers from around the World. Hit the wine tasting events and stock up on your favorite choice to be shipped home for your convenience.

Iowa City helps you expand your skills and learn some new ways to expand your artisan flare? Sign up for classes at your kitchen supply store, yarn shop, art and craft shop and photo gallery. You'll be having great fun with your new friends as you you take on that next project.

Iowa City brings smiles by way of doughnuts and pastries made fresh daily for your enjoyment. Everyone has their favorite of course but having a variety of bakeries is what makes downtown so special. Fritters, scones and pies oh my!

Why Do You Love Downtown?

Tracy Hart
Just purchased a home nearby and am looking forward to shopping in the area

Dianna Branden
I love the quaint little boutiques.

Sharon Wright
I like the idea of downtown merchants being more visible and that they are locally owned and operated. It's great to see what's available downtown and I look forward to the discounts as well. Being a history buff, I love see the architecture as it was back in the day which is lost in modern buildings. Downtown is charming, inviting and quaint!

Dorothy schneibolk
We plan to visit

Darcie Maassen
I love Downtown because I love the beautiful historic buildings. It's a very pretty area aesthetically. I also appreciate the great variety of delicious dining within a small area. Favorites include Capers, Pomodori, Paisanos, Bricktowne Brewery, Elements Tapas bar, Porters, Larks and 4 Daughters. They are all within 4-5 blocks!