When you decide to become a Hawkeye, you aren’t just choosing to study at a top university. You’re also choosing to live in a top college town – Iowa City!

There are plenty of reasons why you’ll love it here. Sure, we could tell you about our restaurants serving all types of delicious cuisines, our amazing public library, and downtown events hosted throughout the entire year. But what about some lesser-known perks that make Iowa City the best college town?

Target

Want a quick grocery haul without having to drive? Target. Move into the residence halls and realize you need extra hangers? Target. It’s a convenient, downtown stop as you settle into your new campus. Plus, with over 70 other locally owned shops, you’ll have access to everything you need within walking distance.

50+ Sidewalk Cafes

You certainly won’t have to search – or walk – for long to find a cozy coffee shop. Whether you’re looking for the perfect drink or a quiet spot to study, you’ve got plenty of local cafes to choose from (plus some old favorites like Starbucks and Dunkin’s).

Farmer’s Market

Every Saturday from May to October, our Parks and Recreation Department hosts an open-air market with tons of local vendors. It has everything from fresh produce to live music, plus handmade crafts that totally fit the artsy vibes of the entire city.

Free Downtown Iowa City Transit Bus

While the CAMBUS is perfect for getting around campus (especially on a rainy day), the Iowa City Transit bus is a great way to explore different areas of Iowa City that are a little further away. It can be especially helpful if you choose to live off-campus at any point while at the university. Just hop on and enjoy the free ride!

Easy to Navigate

This might not seem like a big deal, but the quicker you feel like you know your way around, the quicker you’ll feel at home. During your first week at Iowa, you’ll have the chance to participate in various On Iowa! events that lead you through our pedestrian-friendly downtown. It won’t be long before you’ll have a list of favorites and recommendations when friends or family come to visit!

Of course, there’s plenty more to discover about Iowa City. But you’ll have to discover those perks for yourself once you become a Hawkeye 😉