Deep in the American heartland lies Iowa City, a
college town on the Iowa River with sidewalk cafes and leafy
neighbourhoods of old homes. However, beneath its small-town
surface pulses a vibrant cultural scene.
The city is a giant in the literary world, thanks to
the Iowa Writers' Workshop at the University of Iowa. The Workshop
counts notables like Flannery O'Connor, John Irving, and Pulitzer
Prize-winner Michael Cunningham among its alumni.
The best way to enjoy Iowa City is on foot, starting
with the Iowa Avenue Literary Walk, which is the Midwest's version
of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Panels along the sidewalk celebrate
the many writers with Iowa connections.
Downtown in the Old Capitol District is the place to
be. The Pedestrian Plaza is a stage ground for numerous events,
especially during Summer of the Arts, which includes the Iowa Arts
Festival, Iowa City Jazz Festival, Friday Night Concert Series, and
Saturday Night Free Movie Series. Visitors can also catch great
performances at the Hancher Auditorium, Englert Civic Theater and
intimate Riverside Theater, which hosts an outdoor Shakespeare
festival.
At Prairie Lights, one of the best independent
bookstores in the country, world-renowned authors frequently give
readings. If this sounds too stuffy, keep an eye out for the live
bands that often play at the many local bars.
At the University of Iowa Pentacrest, site of the
original capitol building before the state capital was switched to
Des Moines, visitors can admire the Old Capitol Museum before
crossing over the river on a footpath to enjoy the walking trails
of City Park.