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Interesting Facts
- Residents of Iowa City have much to be proud of: Their city takes its name from a Native American term for "beautiful land," the town is Iowa's fifth largest city (boasting a population of more than 67,000 people), and from 1842 to 1857, Iowa City served as the state's capital.
- Set in the heart of Iowa City, the gold-domed Old Capitol gives a nod to the city's term as the state capital. Along with this beautifully restored building are attractions like the University of Iowa and a variety of arts, cultural and leisure activities.
- Founded in 1847, the University of Iowa occupies a 1900-acre campus and is a member of the Big Ten Conference. While most undergraduates are enrolled in liberal arts and sciences, the university also has schools of business, medicine, law, pharmacy and nursing. Others are devoted to dentistry, education, engineering and public health. The university enrolls more than 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students.
- A few miles east of Iowa City, the quaint town of West Branch hosts the Herbert Hoover Library and Museum. Exhibits cover the former president's youth, his election victory and the burden of the Great Depression, which many blamed on him. After World War II, Hoover became a world-renowned humanitarian.
- While it may be small compared to some other cities, Iowa City grants high living standards. In the summer, it sponsors weekly downtown jazz and pop concerts, and the arts are an essential part of the community's fabric. Thanks to its lovely neighborhoods, high educational standards, growing economy and involved citizens, Iowa City frequently figures high on "best-place-to-live" rankings.
- Business, industry and research are vital aspects of Iowa City and the University of Iowa. The regional economy is home to facilities for national and international businesses, including those of General Mills, Lear, Oral B Laboratories and Procter & Gamble.
- Contrary to popular belief, Iowa City does not sit on a flat plain. The area boasts rolling hills, tall grasses, and lush, scattered woodlands. This natural environment appeals strongly to local residents, and more than 40 parks stand as a testament to their love of outdoor activities, including biking, hiking, camping, and snow- and water-skiing. Many city parks also offer jogging trails, picnic sites, athletic courts and swimming pools.
- Coralville Park, three miles north of I-80 in the heart of the city, mixes prehistoric and modern attractions. Besides being home to a Devonian-era fossil bed, the park features a variety of outdoor leisure activities.
- Founded more than 150 years ago, the quaint Amana community is a social and historic gem tucked away in the hills of Eastern Iowa. Organized from seven separate towns and villages, the community offers a glimpse of the region's history, customs and people. Experience its charm through arts programs, shopping, sightseeing and dining.
- To show off their city, residents host a number of special events annually. Showcased during their runs are local and regional entertainment, artwork, and mouthwatering foods. The events, which draw thousands each year, include the Jazz Festival and the University of Iowa-sponsored Riverfront Festival.
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