The best arts & culture spots in Iowa City

6 arts & culture spots we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Arts & Culture · 6 places · showing the latest additions first

Summer of the Arts

Arts & Culture

Summer of the Arts keeps Iowa City hopping with the Friday Night Concert Series, Drive-In Movies at the Hangar, Rhythms at Riverfront…

319 E 1st St

Summer of the Arts keeps Iowa City hopping with the Friday Night Concert Series, Drive-In Movies at the Hangar, Rhythms at Riverfront Crossings, and Music on the Move. It’s all free, hyper-local, and perfect for an easy weeknight hang or a spontaneous weekend plan.

From the Iowa City newsletter, August 7, 2026

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Old Capitol Museum

Arts & Culture

Iconic building & former government center featuring a gold dome & exhibits on local history.

21 N Clinton St

Iconic building & former government center featuring a gold dome & exhibits on local history.

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Permanent exhibits about the natural world, including mammals & birds, plus the history of Iowa.

Macbride Hall, 17 N Clinton St

Permanent exhibits about the natural world, including mammals & birds, plus the history of Iowa.

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Brush and Barrel

Arts & Culture

Painting classes and events are available at this studio that also hosts children's birthday parties.

1801 2nd St (Coralville)

Painting classes and events are available at this studio that also hosts children's birthday parties.

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Stanley Museum of Art

Arts & Culture

Diverse collection including modern, contemporary & African art, plus Jackson Pollock’s "Mural."

160 W Burlington St

Diverse collection including modern, contemporary & African art, plus Jackson Pollock’s "Mural."

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