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Top rated rentals — Iowa City
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Destination guide

Why people love visiting lively Iowa City

The area's live music and theater scene are just a few of the reasons to vacation in Iowa City. Renowned for its university setting, sporting events and restaurants, this city welcomes all visitors. Are you looking for specific amenities for your getaway? Many of our vacation rentals feature full kitchens and laundry facilities.

Things to do

Activities and attractions in Iowa City

Are you hoping to discover top things to see and do in the area? Venture out of your vacation home and experience everything that Iowa City has to offer. Here are some of the top attractions to put on your list, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:

  • Wasserbahn Waterpark Resort (19.7 mi / 31.7 km)
  • Finkbine Golf Course (1.9 mi / 3 km)
  • Amana Colonies Golf Course (22.4 mi / 36.1 km)
  • Iowa Avenue Literary Walk (0.1 mi / 0.1 km)
  • Pleasant Valley Golf Course (3.3 mi / 5.3 km)
  • Brick Arch Winery (9.5 mi / 15.3 km)
Natural features

Exploring the natural landscape of Iowa City

Whether you're looking for fun outdoor activities or just want to appreciate the scenery, Iowa City is a great place to spend some time outside. These are some of the area's noteworthy features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:

  • Lake Macbride State Park (10.1 mi / 16.2 km)
  • Cedar River (23.1 mi / 37.2 km)
  • Devonian Fossil Gorge (4.4 mi / 7.1 km)
  • Macbride Nature Recreation Area (8.2 mi / 13.3 km)
  • F.W. Kent Park (11.2 mi / 18 km)
  • Palisades-Kepler State Park (17.3 mi / 27.9 km)
How to get there

How to get to and around Iowa City

The nearest airport is in Eastern Iowa Airport (CID), located 18.1 mi (29.2 km) from the city center.

What are the top vacation rentals in or near Iowa City?

Whatever you're seeking in a vacation, you'll find a rental in or around Iowa City that's perfect for you. Here are some of our favorites:

  • "Lake Macbride Cabin And State Park Near Amana Colonies" is popular with guests. Around 11 miles from Iowa City, it has 3 bedrooms and loads of handy amenities, including outdoor furniture and a living room.
  • Alternatively, make yourself comfortable at "Hamilton House, Steps To Kinnick And Ui Hospital". Located around 1 mile from the heart of Iowa City, it has 4 bedrooms and comes with a kitchen and lowered locks.

For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Iowa City vacation rental for you.

Can I find log cabins to rent in or near Iowa City?

Vrbo has some character-filled log cabins available in and around Iowa City. Enjoy the rustic cabin experience while staying in the middle of nature at either of these popular properties:

  • "Log Cabin Staycation For Families Beautiful Country Setting" has everything you need for a relaxed getaway, including a firepit and a stovetop. After you've settled in, venture out and take in the lovely scenery.
  • You won't have to forego any modern comforts if you stay at "Beautiful Log Cabin On The Water With Game Room". This popular option features an oven, a stovetop and more.

What are the top-rated vacation rentals for weekend getaways in or near Iowa City?

If you're ready to relax and completely switch off for a few days, we've got plenty of fabulous weekend getaways in and near Iowa City. Enjoy some well-deserved downtime at one of these top options:

  • Around 1 mile to the northwest of Iowa City, "Dog And Family Friendly - Large Townhouse" has everything you need for a relaxing weekend escape, including air conditioning and an ice maker. When it's time to venture out, there are plenty of outdoor attractions to get to like Macbride Nature Recreation Area and Indian Creek Nature Center.
  • "Beautiful Home Nestled On Almost 2 Acres In The City" is also ideal for a whirlwind getaway. Located approximately 2 miles to the southwest of Iowa City, this vacation rental comes with amenities such as children's games and nearby birdwatching activities. F.W. Kent Park and Palisades-Kepler State Park should be on your itinerary if you stay here.

Can I find studio apartments for rent in and around Iowa City?

Studio apartments are a tough act to follow when it comes to location, convenience and character. Choose one of these studio apartments for rent in or near Iowa City and enjoy a taste of the local vibe and culture:

  • Wake up, go exploring and then do it all over again at "Cozy Cottage Located Near Czech Village And Newbo Areas In Cedar Rapids". This vacation rental is a fantastic base for sightseeing and comes with amenities including golf and coffee and tea making facilities.
  • "New Kid - Friendly House ~ 8 Mi To Cedar Rapids" is another attractive option. Get comfortable and enjoy the use of a garden, an iron and ironing board and more.

There are lots of highlights around Iowa City to put on your itinerary. Satisfy your inner culture fan by visiting Faulconer Gallery and Brunnier Art Museum.

Can I find short term rentals in or near Iowa City?

Whether you're in search of a cozy apartment for you and your other half or a townhouse with space for the whole family, short-term rentals are easy to find in and around Iowa City. These retreats make a comfortable base for a quick visit:

  • For a fantastic few nights away, you can't go wrong with "Hello Louise•patio•hulutv•spacious". It's near the center of Iowa City, in addition to countless things to see and do.
  • Alternatively, spend a couple of nights at "Brand New Condo - Close To Uihc And Shopping". This centrally located property makes exploring the sights easy.

What are the best romantic weekend getaways in or near Iowa City?

Forget roses and chocolates. Sometimes all you need is to get away for the weekend, just you and your boo. At Vrbo, we've got romantic getaways in and around Iowa City that would make Cupid swoon. Here are a few that'll sweep you off your feet:

  • Put on some love songs and slow dance the nights away at "Lake Macbride Cabin And State Park Near Amana Colonies". Around 11 miles from Iowa City, this property has everything you need for a romantic getaway, including beauty services and a fireplace.
  • Alternatively, spend a few blissful days canoodling and uncorking Champagne at "Hamilton House, Steps To Kinnick And Ui Hospital", around 1 mile from Iowa City. Shopping facilities and a dining table will help set the scene for romance.

What are the best large group vacation rentals in or near Iowa City?

Check out these large group vacation rentals in or near Iowa City and don't worry about leaving anyone off your guest list:

  • A wide array of amenities including a lake view and a garden make "Lake Macbride Cabin And State Park Near Amana Colonies" a winner. This expansive property has 3 bedrooms and accommodates up to 15 people. From central Iowa City, it's around 11 miles away to the north.
  • Nothing's more important than spending precious time with loved ones, and "Prairie Retreat With 40 Acres Near Iowa City" is the perfect place to do that. Located around 12 miles to the northwest of Iowa City, as many as 15 guests can stay in this vacation rental which has 5 bedrooms. A firepit and a kitchen are among the many amenities at hand here.

What are the best houses for rent with a pool in or near Iowa City?

Of all the conveniences a vacation rental can offer, a pool promises the most fun. Take a peek at these houses for rent with a pool in or near Iowa City and spend your days splashing around. Just remember to take your flamingo floatie:

  • Make yourself comfortable at "Hamilton House, Steps To Kinnick And Ui Hospital", where your highest priority will be pool time. Amenities including on-site watersports and a dining table help make this retreat a guest favorite.
  • Otherwise, unpack your bags at "3 Bedroom House In Rural Setting But Close To Iowa City". Along with an invigorating pool, you can also make use of a garden and a microwave oven.

Iowa City has a humid continental climate, with average summertime temperatures ranging between 65 ºF and 80 ºF. But there's no need to wait until summer to visit! Check out the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find the ideal Iowa City vacation rental and organize your getaway for any time of year.

What are the best large family vacation rentals in or near Iowa City?

Whether your perfect escape is out in the country or near the beach, you'll have a lot more fun if you share it with your favorite people. Book one of these large family vacation rentals in or near Iowa City and bring the whole gang:

  • Around 11 miles to the north of Iowa City, "Lake Macbride Cabin And State Park Near Amana Colonies" has 3 bedrooms and can sleep up to 15 guests. It comes with a range of amenities, including a dishwasher and outdoor furniture.
  • "Hamilton House, Steps To Kinnick And Ui Hospital" also offers the space you need to reconnect with loved ones. This rental is around 1 mile to the southwest of central Iowa City and accommodates 8 guests in its 4 bedrooms. Towels and a fridge will help keep everyone happy and comfortable.

When you're ready to venture outside and explore, there are loads of family-friendly attractions nearby to keep everyone entertained and happy. Adventureland, Iowa State Fairgrounds and Matchstick Marvels Museum should be top of your to-do list.

Can I find family cabin rentals in or near Iowa City?

Get away from the hustle and bustle and treat the ones you love to a different sort of vacation. Stay in one of these family cabins in or near Iowa City and get the camping experience — but with all the creature comforts you're used to!

  • "Cedar River Ranch Cabin #7" - Approximately 25 miles southeast of central Iowa City, this family-friendly getaway comes with on-site watersports and childrens activities.
  • "Studio Cabin #6 Near Beautiful Cedar River" - Gather up the troops and spend a few days at this appealing rental, which is around 25 miles to the southeast of Iowa City. You'll have access to a DVD player, a nearby laundromat and a whole lot more.

For more options, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find the Iowa City vacation rental that's perfect for your needs.