What to do
The Iowa City Pedestrian Mall The Ped Mall includes about 12 downtown blocks and houses many of the city’s best shops, college clubs and restaurants. See reviews and ratings. downtowniowacity.com
Haunted Bookshop It’s still supervised by two cats, but the tidy shop selling books, toys, gifts and cards has moved to the corner of Linn and Market streets. (319) 337-2996; thehauntedbookshop.com
Where to eat
Bluebird Diner Savory sausage and excellent hollandaise elevate breakfast standbys. See reviews and ratings. (319) 351-1470; thebluebirddiner.com
Brown Bottle Old-world Italian dishes have satisfied here since 1974. (319) 351-6704; iowacitybrownbottle.com
Hamburg Inn An authentic sit-at-the-counter restaurant that has managed to preserve the charm and dining excellence it established in 1948. See reviews and ratings. (319) 337-5512; hamburginn.com
Where to stay
HotelVetro Guests staying in the ultrahip, ecofriendly boutique hotel’s 54 suites take in city views from the huge rooftop patio. From $159. See reviews and ratings. (800) 592-0355; hotelvetro.com
For information: Iowa City/Coralville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (800) 283-6592; iowacitycoralville.org
