Hotels in Iowa City

Discover the Soul of Iowa City: Where Knowledge Meets Nature

Iowa City, Iowa, is a vibrant cultural hub brimming with charm and creativity. Home to the prestigious University of Iowa, the city boasts a lively downtown filled with eclectic shops, delightful eateries, and captivating galleries. Discover literary treasures at the Iowa City Public Library or immerse yourself in the arts at the University’s Museum of Art. Stroll along the scenic Iowa River, where nature meets urban life, or indulge in a local craft brew. With its rich history and welcoming atmosphere, Iowa City is a delightful off-the-beaten-path destination for explorers and culture aficionados alike. For our best hotel rates in Iowa City and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Iowa City

Some of the best places to stay in Iowa City are Iowa River Landing and Coralville. Iowa River Landing and Coralville are excellent destinations for travellers seeking a blend of natural beauty, shopping, and dining. Iowa River Landing features scenic river views and vibrant entertainment, while Coralville offers charming parks and family-friendly attractions. Both areas boast a range of hotel accommodations, from budget-friendly options to more upscale stays, ensuring comfort and convenience. For first-time visitors, Iowa River Landing is particularly appealing due to its lively atmosphere and proximity to key attractions. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Iowa City:

1. Iowa River LandingOpens in a new window: Iowa River Landing is a vibrant area perfect for families and those seeking entertainment. With attractions like the University of Iowa, Carver-Hawkeye Arena, and Xtream Arena & GreenState Family Fieldhouse nearby, it's an ideal spot for both relaxation and recreation. For accommodation, consider Graduate by Hilton Iowa CityOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel suitable for business and family travellers, offering amenities like meeting rooms and pet-friendly options. Another choice is Hyatt Regency Coralville Hotel & Conference CenterOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel that caters to adventure seekers and couples, featuring a range of activities and romantic packages. Additionally, The Brown Street InnOpens in a new window is a cozy 3.5-star bed and breakfast focused on business travellers, offering a welcoming atmosphere.
2. CoralvilleOpens in a new window: Coralville is a charming city that boasts easy access to attractions like the University of Iowa and various entertainment venues. It's an excellent choice for those looking to explore the local culture. Consider staying at Home2 Suites Iowa City CoralvilleOpens in a new window, a 3-star hotel that welcomes pets and provides basic amenities. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Coralville Iowa CityOpens in a new window is another option, a 2.5-star hotel ideal for business travellers, featuring meeting rooms and pet policies. Lastly, Residence Inn by Marriott CoralvilleOpens in a new window, a 3-star hotel, offers business services and is also pet-friendly, making it suitable for a variety of travellers.

Things to do in Iowa City for first times

Three days in Iowa City offers a vibrant mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Explore lush parks, scenic trails, and tranquil lakes while enjoying live music, sports events, and lively entertainment. Whether hiking or dancing the night away, this charming city promises an engaging getaway for every traveller. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Iowa City:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the historic Old Capitol Museum, where you can explore the rich history of Iowa and its significance in the state’s development. After soaking in the knowledge, take a leisurely stroll to Iowa Avenue Literary Walk, a beautiful pathway adorned with quotes from famous authors, creating an inspiring atmosphere. Allow some time to relax at Thornberry Off-Leash Dog Park, where you can enjoy the outdoors and perhaps watch some playful pups while unwinding in nature.
• Day 2: Your journey continues at the University of Iowa Museum of Natural History, where exhibits on local wildlife and natural history will fascinate you. Following your visit, head to Hunter's Run Park for a scenic walk or perhaps a picnic amidst the lush greenery. Finish your day at Walden Green Park, a serene spot perfect for enjoying the sunset, where you can unwind and reflect on your day’s experiences.
• Day 3: Start your day at the Iowa City Public Library, a great place to browse local literature and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Afterward, visit the Devonian Fossil Gorge, where you can explore fascinating geological formations and perhaps spot some unique fossils. Conclude your itinerary at Corallville Creekside Ballpark, where you can appreciate the beauty of local sports and enjoy a game if the season permits, making for a delightful end to your Iowa City exploration.

4 tips to find a great Iowa City hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Iowa City is in January, March, and December, when hotel prices are more affordable. For international travellers, it’s advisable to book your flight at least three months in advance to secure the best deals. Domestic travellers should aim to book at least two months ahead for cheaper fares. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the great value for money offered by the main attractions, including the University of Iowa. This way, you can explore Iowa City’s rich culture and vibrant community without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're planning a spontaneous trip to Iowa City, there are often enticing last-minute hotel deals available. To explore these offers on Hotels.com, navigate to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find reduced rates on accommodations as your travel date approaches. It's also wise to enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep yourself informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you seize any chance to save on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could mean you may save on hotel expenses in Iowa City.
4. Consider your location: Take your location into account when booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, as accommodations closer to major attractions or city centres usually tend to offer more convenience, although they often come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and the accessibility of the sites you wish to visit.

Best time to go to Iowa City

Iowa City experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 21.6°F (-5.8°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.5°F (23.6°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Iowa City are June, July, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, November, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.