Iowa City, home to the University of Iowa, offers a unique blend of educational and recreational opportunities for families. With its vibrant arts scene, historic sites, and natural beauty, it’s an excellent destination for a family vacation. To make the most of your visit, explore the best family-friendly hotels in Iowa City and discover the exciting experiences that await you in this charming city.
Top Picks for Family-Friendly Hotels in Iowa City
Campus Convenience: Graduate Iowa City
Family-Friendly Features: Located near the University of Iowa campus, Graduate Iowa City offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor rooftop terrace, and a prime location for exploring downtown.
Why Families Love It: Families appreciate the hotel’s proximity to attractions like the Iowa Children’s Museum and the Old Capitol Museum. The outdoor rooftop terrace provides scenic views and a relaxing place to unwind.
Alternative Options:
- Hyatt Place Iowa City Downtown: Situated in the heart of downtown, this hotel features spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and easy access to local restaurants and theaters. Families can explore the nearby Iowa Avenue Literary Walk.
- Hilton Garden Inn Iowa City Downtown University: Located downtown, this hotel offers modern accommodations, an indoor pool, and an on-site restaurant. Families can visit the Museum of Natural History and the Iowa Old Capitol Building.
Suburban Comfort: Homewood Suites by Hilton Coralville – Iowa River Landing
Family-Friendly Features: This all-suite hotel in nearby Coralville provides kitchenettes, an indoor pool, and complimentary breakfast. It’s just a short drive from Iowa City.
Why Families Love It: The spacious suites with kitchenettes allow families to prepare meals and snacks. The indoor pool provides entertainment for the kids, especially during the colder months.
Alternative Options:
- Radisson Hotel & Conference Center Coralville – Iowa City: Located in Coralville, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and an on-site restaurant. Families can explore the Coral Ridge Mall and the Iowa Firefighters Memorial.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Coralville: Situated in Coralville, this hotel provides modern accommodations, an indoor pool, and complimentary breakfast. It’s close to the Johnson County Historical Society and the Antique Car Museum of Iowa.
Natural Retreat: Coralville Marriott Hotel & Conference Center
Family-Friendly Features: Coralville Marriott offers comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a beautiful location overlooking the Iowa River.
Why Families Love It: Families can enjoy the scenic views and nearby nature trails. The indoor pool provides a refreshing break, and the hotel’s restaurant serves delicious meals.
Alternative Options:
- Comfort Suites Coralville: Located in Coralville, this hotel features spacious suites, an indoor pool, and complimentary breakfast. Families can explore the Iowa Children’s Museum and the Devonian Fossil Gorge.
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Coralville, IA: Situated in Coralville, this hotel provides comfortable accommodations, an indoor pool, and complimentary breakfast. It’s close to the Brown Deer Golf Club and the Carver-Hawkeye Arena.
Family-Friendly Activities in Iowa City:
Iowa City offers a variety of family-friendly activities:
- Iowa Children’s Museum: Explore interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for kids of all ages.
- Old Capitol Museum: Discover Iowa’s history and take a tour of the beautifully restored Old Capitol building.
- Hickory Hill Park: Enjoy nature trails, picnicking, and outdoor adventures in this scenic park.
- Coral Ridge Mall: Shop, dine, and catch a movie at this popular shopping center.
- Iowa Avenue Literary Walk: Stroll along this literary walk featuring bronze relief panels of famous writers associated with Iowa.
- Devonian Fossil Gorge: Explore the ancient past with a visit to this unique fossil site.
With these options in mind, you can select the ideal Iowa City hotel that aligns with your family’s interests and embark on an educational and recreational journey in this vibrant city. Enjoy your family adventure in Iowa City, Iowa!
