Iowa City

Iowa City, situated on the Iowa River in east-central Iowa, is a city that effortlessly blends academic prestige with a lively cultural scene. As the original territorial capital of Iowa in 1839, it carries a deep historical significance. Today, it's perhaps best known as a UNESCO City of Literature, a title earned in 2008 due to its influential literary institutions, most notably the University of Iowa Writers' Workshop, which pioneered creative writing at the university level.

The city's identity is intrinsically linked to the University of Iowa, a major institution that established the first law and dental schools west of the Mississippi River and was the first in the nation to award advanced degrees in creative writing, theatre, and music. This academic environment fosters a dynamic atmosphere, attracting a diverse population of students, artists, and scholars. Beyond its intellectual pursuits, Iowa City offers a welcoming Midwestern charm, with a pedestrian-friendly downtown and an array of public art, independent bookstores, and performance venues that solidify its reputation as a significant cultural center.

Iowa City's commitment to the arts extends beyond literature, with a public art program featuring over 30 works, and a thriving arts and culture economy contributing significantly to the local job market. Whether you're drawn to its literary heritage, its collegiate energy, or its friendly community, Iowa City presents a unique and engaging experience.

From Territorial Capital to Literary Capital

Iowa City's story begins in 1839, when it was designated the territorial capital of Iowa. The cornerstone for the Old Capitol Building was laid on July 4, 1840, a significant undertaking that involved quarrying four-ton blocks of Devonian limestone from bluffs along the Iowa River and transporting them by barge and oxen to the construction site. This Greek Revival structure, completed in 1842, served as the seat of government until 1857, when the state capital was moved to Des Moines.

Even after losing its political prominence, Iowa City retained a vital asset: the University of Iowa, established in 1847. The university quickly became a pioneer in higher education, notably granting the first law degree to a woman in 1873 and to an African American in 1879. More profoundly, it revolutionized the study of creative arts. In 1922, the university began accepting creative work as theses for advanced degrees, a groundbreaking move. This innovation culminated in the establishment of the Iowa Writers' Workshop in 1936, the first creative writing degree program in the United States.

This pioneering spirit laid the groundwork for Iowa City's future as a literary powerhouse. The Writers' Workshop has since nurtured thousands of acclaimed authors, including over 40 Pulitzer Prize winners and seven U.S. Poet Laureates. Renowned figures like Kurt Vonnegut, Flannery O'Connor, Tennessee Williams, and John Irving have all had ties to the university, contributing to the city's literary landscape. In recognition of this extraordinary legacy, Iowa City was designated the world's third UNESCO City of Literature in 2008, a testament to its enduring influence on the literary world.

Beyond its academic and literary achievements, Iowa City played a role in the Underground Railroad, serving as a significant hub due to its geographical position between the slave state of Missouri and the free state of Illinois. The city also offers historic homes, such as Plum Grove, the restored 1844 home of Robert Lucas, Iowa's first territorial governor. The Charles Berryhill House, with its original two-story brick block built in 1850, stands as another example of early Iowa City architecture. These historical layers contribute to the unique character of Iowa City, a place where past and present converge in a dynamic cultural landscape.

Begin your exploration at the Old Capitol Building on the University of Iowa campus, a Greek Revival landmark that once served as the state's government seat. Just a short walk away, immerse yourself in the city's literary heritage along the Literary Walk, an outdoor exhibit with bronze panels embedded in the sidewalks, featuring quotes from nearly 50 authors connected to Iowa City. This walk is a tangible representation of the city's UNESCO City of Literature designation.

For a dose of contemporary art, visit the Iowa River Landing Sculpture Walk, which showcases 11 sculptures by Iowa artists, each inspired by a work from the Iowa Writer's Library. The Pedestrian Mall, or Ped Mall, is the core of downtown, offering an active space with shops, restaurants, and frequent events like concerts and festivals. Don't miss the Devonian Fossil Gorge at Coralville Lake, where you can walk on a 375 million-year-old ocean floor exposed by past floods. Finally, for those intrigued by local legends, a visit to Oakland Cemetery to see the mysterious Black Angel statue offers a glimpse into Iowa City's folklore.

The best time to experience Iowa City's outdoor activities and comfortable weather is from early June to mid-September. During these months, average daily high temperatures are above 74°F (23°C), with July being the hottest month, averaging 85°F (29°C). The summer also brings lower humidity and abundant sunshine, ideal for exploring the city. While spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, spring can be wetter, and fall brings cooler nights. Winters (December-February) are cold and snowy, with average lows around 16°F (-9°C) in January.

Iowa City Transit (ICT) provides public transportation with 13 fixed routes operating Monday through Saturday. All buses are wheelchair accessible and, as of August 1, 2023, rides are free for everyone. You can plan your journey and track buses using the Transit app. For those considering the cost of living, Iowa City is generally more affordable than the national average. Housing is approximately 21% less expensive, and groceries are about 3% cheaper. Utilities are also around 14% less pricey. A single adult with no dependents would aim for an annual salary of around $67,000 before taxes to live comfortably.