Skip to content

For The Literary Lover

Events

Literary Lover

Begin your literary adventure at Prairie Lights Books & Cafe. What started in May 1978 as a small, intimate bookstore is now one of the most recognizable places in Iowa City. The top floor houses a coffee shop in the very same space Carl Sandberg, Robert Frost, E. E. Cummings, and others met for the local literary society in the 1930’s. With a diverse selection of books and weekly author readings, the store has been described as a “little unexpected treasure.”

                  

Just a few short minutes from Prairie Lights is the Haunted Bookshop, Iowa City’s oldest secondhand bookstore. Established in 1978, they have over 45,000 titles in more than 80 different sections all within the ten rooms of a 1847 house. The location has changes three times over the years. Their current address is 219 N Gilbert Street. 

                                                                     

From there, you’re in prime location to stroll the Iowa Avenue and North Linn Street Literary Walk. This presents the history of this “UNESCO City of Literature” in the form of bronze panels cemented in the sidewalk. Each panel include quotes and information about a writer and his or her connection to Iowa. See a full detailed map of the Literary Walk here.

                       
Just a short walk south will lead you to the Iowa City Public Library, with collections and materials to satisfy all interests in the form of books, videos, art prints, interactive media, and more. After that, go across the river and down Melrose Ave. to Sidekick Coffee & Books. Try some of their premium coffee or a pastry while being surrounded by hundreds of books to read or buy.

                                                                   

INSANELY CURIOUS

think-iowa-city-coralville-iowa-places-to-eat-restaurants

Delectable Eats

With options ranging from comfort food and traditional staples to unexpected combinations coupled with the freshness of local ingredients, your taste buds are sure to be quite pleased.

Untitled-1

FIND THINGS TO DO

If you haven’t been here lately, you’ll want to experience the eclectic, collegiate spirit of Iowa City and the University of Iowa combined with the shopping and recreational attractions there is adventure around every corner.

Untitled-2

FASHION AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

Shopping in Iowa City’s curious communities includes options from local sellers as well as large retailers. Find the perfect gift for someone special or a unique piece for your collection!

Untitled-3

EVENTS CALENDAR

Iowa City and its curious communities are full of events year-round. You’ll find events ranging from author readings and workshops to musical performances and athletic competitions.

Shop Think Iowa City

Your one stop shop for Iowa City, Coralville, and North Liberty area themed merchandise.

Order online at shopthinkiowacity.com. Ship to you or pick up at our visitors center.

Represent your community now with Shop Think Iowa City!

Think-Iowa-City-coralville-a-collection-of-curious-communities-logo

Iowa City/Coralville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

900 1st Ave. Hayden Fry Way Coralville, IA 52241

ABOUT US  |  SITEMAP  |  CONTACT US  |  PRIVACY