Summer vacations in Iowa City

Find out more about Iowa City

Enjoy Iowa City this summer

Spend your summer in Iowa City, where you can explore the Iowa Avenue Literary Walk or discover the Devonian Fossil Gorge. Many hotels offer indoor pools, perfect for a refreshing dip, and air conditioning to keep you comfortable. Stay in Downtown Iowa City to be close to attractions like The Englert Theater and various dining options.

Summer Stays in Iowa City

For travelers looking to explore the Iowa Avenue Literary Walk or the Devonian Fossil Gorge during the summer, Iowa City offers a selection of hotels with convenient amenities. These properties provide comfortable places to stay, often with air conditioning and other features that enhance a warm-weather trip.

Graduate by Hilton Iowa City

This hotel in Downtown Iowa City offers air conditioning and city views, providing a comfortable place to relax after exploring. Travelers give this property 9 out of 10.

• Other amenities: The hotel provides free bicycles for exploring and minibar access. Free cribs are available for families.
• Neighborhood: Downtown
• Nearby attractions: The Englert Theater (about a 5-minute walk), Iowa Avenue Literary Walk (about a 5-minute walk), Iowa Old Capitol Building (about a 5-minute walk)

The Highlander Hotel Iowa City, an Ascend Collection Hotel

This hotel features a bar and courtyard views, making it a pleasant spot for unwinding. Travelers rate this property 8.8 out of 10.

• Other amenities: The hotel offers books for children and free RV, bus, and truck parking.
• Nearby attractions: Xtream Arena & GreenState Family Fieldhouse (about a 5-minute drive), Johnson County Historical Society (about a 5-minute drive), Iowa Old Capitol Building (about a 5-minute drive)

Element by Marriott Iowa City

Located in Downtown, this hotel provides air conditioning and an indoor pool, which is ideal for a summer stay. Travelers give this property 9.2 out of 10.

• Other amenities: The hotel has laundry facilities and sofa beds.
• Neighborhood: Downtown
• Nearby attractions: The Englert Theater (about a 5-minute walk), Old Capitol Museum (about a 5-minute walk), Stanley Museum of Art (about a 5-minute walk)

Hyatt Place Iowa City Downtown

This Downtown hotel offers city views and a bar, providing a comfortable setting for your visit. Travelers rate this property 9.2 out of 10.

• Other amenities: The hotel includes a snack bar and free breakfast. Secured self-parking is also available.
• Neighborhood: Downtown
• Nearby attractions: The Englert Theater (about a 5-minute walk), Iowa Avenue Literary Walk (about a 10-minute walk), Iowa Old Capitol Building (about a 10-minute walk)

Hotel Chauncey Iowa City, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

This property features balconies and air conditioning, which are pleasant for summer evenings. The hotel also has a bar. Travelers give this property 9 out of 10.

• Other amenities: Guests can enjoy city views and outdoor furniture. A fitness center is also available.
• Nearby attractions: The Englert Theater (about a 5-minute walk), Iowa Avenue Literary Walk (about a 5-minute walk), Iowa Old Capitol Building (about a 10-minute walk)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the weather like in Iowa City in August?

In August, travelers visiting Iowa City can expect pleasant summer weather. The typical daytime high is around 80°F, making it a good time for outdoor activities and enjoying the warm season. This period is often popular for summer vacations.

What types of food can I find in Iowa City during a summer vacation?

During a summer vacation in Iowa City, travelers can find several types of food, including European and Mediterranean options. Italian cuisine is a dominant choice, so you will often find places offering dishes from Italy. This variety provides different flavors to enjoy during your stay.

What are some places to visit in Iowa City during a summer vacation?

For a summer vacation in Iowa City, you can visit Kinnick Stadium, The Englert Theater, Old Capitol Museum, and Carver-Hawkeye Arena, a multi-purpose indoor arena.

What are the best hotels for a summer vacation in Iowa City?

For a summer vacation in Iowa City, several hotels offer comfortable stays. These include Graduate by Hilton Iowa City, The Highlander Hotel Iowa City, an Ascend Collection Hotel, and Element by Marriott Iowa City. All of these properties provide a 24-hour front desk for traveler convenience.


Graduate by Hilton Iowa City is a 4-star hotel in Downtown Iowa City, with guests rating it 9 out of 10. The 4-star The Highlander Hotel Iowa City, an Ascend Collection Hotel, earns an 8.8 out of 10 from travelers. Element by Marriott Iowa City, a 3-star property also in Downtown, is highly rated at 9.2 out of 10.

Are there family-friendly hotels in Iowa City for summer travel?

Yes, several hotels in Iowa City offer family-friendly amenities for summer travel. Hilton Garden Inn Iowa City Downtown University, a 3-star hotel with a 9.4 out of 10 guest rating, provides free cribs. This Downtown property is a convenient option for families.


hotelVetro Iowa City, Tapestry Collection by Hilton also offers free cribs. This 3.5-star hotel has an 8.4 out of 10 guest rating, providing another comfortable option for families. Graduate by Hilton Iowa City, a 4-star hotel in Downtown with a 9 out of 10 guest rating, also features free cribs for travelers.

Are there hotels for a summer vacation in Iowa City near Kinnick Stadium?

Yes, for a summer vacation in Iowa City, you can find several hotels located near Kinnick Stadium.


Courtyard by Marriott Iowa City University Heights, a 3-star hotel, is about a 10-minute walk from Kinnick Stadium. Travelers give this property in the University Heights neighborhood a 9.6 out of 10 guest rating.


Hampton Inn Iowa City/University Area is another option located in the Miller Orchard neighborhood. It is about a 20-minute walk from Kinnick Stadium and has an 8.8 out of 10 guest rating.

What are the best neighborhoods in Iowa City for hotels for a summer vacation?

For a summer vacation in Iowa City, Downtown and University Heights are good choices. Downtown provides access to cultural and historical sites, including The Englert Theater, Iowa Avenue Literary Walk, and the Iowa Old Capitol Building. University Heights is home to sports venues such as Kinnick Stadium and Carver-Hawkeye Arena.

Are all taxes and fees included in the prices shown for in Iowa City on Expedia?

Yes, with Expedia’s upfront pricing you can compare in Iowa City, see what you’ll pay before booking, and choose the right stay for your trip. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a premium escape, clear pricing helps you plan your trip with ease.

Can I cancel my booking for on Expedia?

Yes, you can—many Expedia hotel reservations offer free cancellation, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24–48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's “Fully refundable property” filter during your search to find the right in Iowa City.

Can I find Expedia discounts for in Iowa City?

To look for discounts on in Iowa City, join One Key™—our free travel rewards program. One Key members get instant discounts with Member Prices and can earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings. You can also save by bundling your hotel and flights together on Expedia. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Can I save money by booking flights and in Iowa City as a package?

Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build a travel package. *Savings vary and are not available on all flight and hotel bookings.

How much does it cost to book in Iowa City?

Prices for in Iowa City vary, but you can find deals from $66 on Expedia. To find great prices, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to find our lowest rates.