The best things to do in Iowa City

9 things to do we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

Browse another shelf: all of Iowa City’s best · Restaurants · Beauty · Antiques, Thrift, & Vintage · Hobbies, Books, & Crafts · Nightlife · Shopping · Arts & Culture · Bakeries & Sweets · Home & Garden · Parks & Outdoors · Sporting Goods

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Entertainment · 9 places · showing the latest additions first

Airport National Golf Course packs 27 holes, a full driving range, practice greens, lighted mini golf, and year-round simulators. If you…

3001 Wright Brothers Blvd E (Cedar Rapids)

Airport National Golf Course packs 27 holes, a full driving range, practice greens, lighted mini golf, and year-round simulators. If you want some friendly pressure, jump into their leagues or the open-to-everyone Wednesday Individual Game, then celebrate the good shots like a local hero.

From the Cedar Rapids newsletter, August 4, 2026

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Pleasant Valley Golf Course is an 18-hole public course with a well-maintained driving range, a spacious putting green, and a fleet of golf…

4390 Sand Rd SE

Pleasant Valley Golf Course is an 18-hole public course with a well-maintained driving range, a spacious putting green, and a fleet of golf cars, so you can practice, play, then unwind with friends after. This week, round up the crew for friendly vibes, golf outings, or a laid-back party.

From the Iowa City newsletter, August 7, 2026

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FilmScene at The Chauncey is your reliable cure for streaming fatigue, serving up indie standouts, repertory deep cuts, and series that…

404 E College St #100

FilmScene at The Chauncey is your reliable cure for streaming fatigue, serving up indie standouts, repertory deep cuts, and series that actually spark conversation.

From the Iowa City newsletter, August 5, 2026

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Johnson County Historic Poor Farm is part working landscape, part time capsule, where you can wander historic buildings, stroll the Healing…

4811 Melrose Ave

Johnson County Historic Poor Farm is part working landscape, part time capsule, where you can wander historic buildings, stroll the Healing Trail, and learn how our community cared for neighbors before social services. Watch the community calendar for tours, painting days, or a nature break that resets your brain.

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Beautiful 18-hole golf course featuring undulating greens and scenic fairways.

3184 IA-22 (Riverside)

Beautiful 18-hole golf course featuring undulating greens and scenic fairways.

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Colonial Lanes

Entertainment

Casual alley with multiple lanes and a vintage feel, featuring mini golf plus a diner and pool tables.

2253 Old Hwy 218 S

Casual alley with multiple lanes and a vintage feel, featuring mini golf plus a diner and pool tables.

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Set on a century-old farm, this rustic restaurant and bar serves dishes made with local produce.

4823 Dingleberry Rd NE #2

Set on a century-old farm, this rustic restaurant and bar serves dishes made with local produce.

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University's collegiate team golf course with 18 holes & a driving range, also open to the public.

1380 Melrose Ave

University's collegiate team golf course with 18 holes & a driving range, also open to the public.

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Compact theater for first-runs, classic movies, film series & workshops, with a cafe & roof patio.

118 E College St

Compact theater for first-runs, classic movies, film series & workshops, with a cafe & roof patio.

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