Iowa City

Iowa City is a university town in Johnson County, Iowa. The settlement spreads along the Iowa River and includes several residential neighborhoods along with public parks connecting both riverbanks.

The town arose in 1839 as the second seat of the Iowa Territory and later became the first seat of the state. The government later moved to another city, while the university remained and continued to grow here.

The university shapes daily life through readings, bookstores, and small presses scattered across downtown streets and residential blocks. Literary heritage appears in community libraries and neighborhood reading events that draw residents year-round.

The town is best explored on foot or by bicycle, as many sights and shops in the downtown area lie close together. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, as routes between the river, campus, and residential areas can take several hours to walk.

The former government building from the mid-19th century now stands in the middle of the campus and houses exhibition rooms on regional history. The golden dome of the building remains visible from many spots across town and serves as a landmark for visitors.

Location: Johnson County

Inception: 1839

Elevation above the sea: 204 m

Website: http://icgov.org

GPS coordinates: 41.65583,-91.52500

Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:01