River Trails, Big Ideas, Deep Iowa Roots

Iowa City is home to the University of Iowa, the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, major libraries and museums, independent bookstores, theaters, and a strong writing community. It is also recognized as a UNESCO City of Literature. The regional visitor site Think Iowa City highlights literary, arts, and cultural attractions throughout the area.

The Iowa River Trail, Hoover Trail, Clear Creek Trail, and Mehaffey Bridge Trail provide paved recreation routes, while county conservation areas such as F.W. Kent Park and Cangleska Wakan offer natural-surface hiking. The Iowa River Trail alone forms a 16-mile network connecting Iowa City, Coralville, and North Liberty.

Families can visit parks, libraries, aquatic facilities, trails, museums, recreation centers, and seasonal events. Coralville’s Iowa River Landing area, the Coralville Center for the Performing Arts, and North Liberty’s parks and recreation system provide year-round options. Think Iowa City keeps a current events calendar.

F.W. Kent Park is the county conservation headquarters and spans more than 1,000 acres. Lake Macbride State Park and Coralville Lake add boating, beaches, fishing, camping, and trails. The county manages more than 18 conservation sites.

Yes. The Iowa River Water Trail runs for 72 miles overall, including about 24 miles through Johnson County. County access points include Hills Access, Pechman Creek Delta, and River Junction Access.

Iowa City’s Old Capitol area is central to Iowa’s territorial and early state history. The county also has historic courthouse architecture, University of Iowa landmarks, preserved neighborhoods, and sites tied to pioneer settlement. Johnson County’s official history notes that Iowa City became the territorial capital site in 1839 before the state capital moved to Des Moines in 1857.

Downtown Iowa City, the Iowa River Landing in Coralville, and commercial districts in North Liberty and Tiffin offer a mix of independent shops, restaurants, coffee houses, boutiques, and larger retail. The official Think Iowa City visitor guide is a good source for current dining and shopping options.

Johnson County includes Iowa City, Coralville, North Liberty, Tiffin, Solon, Oxford, Hills, Lone Tree, Swisher, Shueyville, and University Heights. Iowa City is the county seat and largest city.

Iowa City Transit, Coralville Transit, and the University of Iowa’s fare-free CAMBUS system provide extensive bus service in the urban core. Biking and walking are also practical in many areas thanks to the county and city trail networks.

Walk the University of Iowa campus, explore Iowa City’s downtown and public art, use the Iowa River Trail, hike county conservation areas, visit public libraries, or spend time in city parks. Many university galleries, community events, and outdoor spaces are free, though hours and event admission can vary.