7 Instagrammable Spots in our Curious Community
The Iowa City area is an Instagram lovers dream. From colorful murals to historic buildings and attractions, there is no shortage of places to get a great picture in. Some places are always in the conversation for Instagram including the Old Capitol Building or murals in downtown Iowa City like you see above. We want to highlight some places that are not always thought of but are perfect Instagrammable spots.
Get your notes out because here are 7 Instagrammable spots in our Curious Communities!
During the spring and summer months, the Northside Neighborhood of Downtown Iowa City gets a makeover. A block of N. Linn Street is shut down to traffic and gets colorful flowers painted on the road and potted on the sidewalks. Painted picnic tables are brought out for outdoor dining under string lights. The surrounding restaurants embrace the space as well, with patios of their own. All these elements make this area the perfect spot for an Instagram post from any angle.
Wilson’s Orchard & Farm is not only a favorite attraction in Johnson County, but the whole state. Popular for its you-pick apple orchard in the fall, they also offer other you-pick opportunities all year round including pumpkins, tulips, strawberries, and more. You can have extra fun on a tractor ride or listen to live music. Every spot on the farm is the perfect backdrop for a fun photo. Check out their Farm Market or restaurant, Wilson’s Ciderhouse, for more picture inspiration.
South of 6 is a new self-supporting municipal improvement district bordering Highway 6 on the south-side of Iowa City. It is one of the city’s most underrated areas and is the home to one of the best murals in town. The South District Community Mural was painted in 2020 and features anything kids want to see reflected in the South District neighborhood including animals, games, music, sports, and more. The 4,400 square-foot mural also displays every color of the rainbow, so you can pick the perfect color background for any picture!
Sitting on the west side of rural Iowa City, Walker Homestead gives you an array of views that make for beautiful sunset or scenic photos. They serve locally-grown food to the public on Thursdays and Sundays for some perfect “phone eats first” pictures. Sometimes the food almost looks too good to eat. Browsing the farm are several kinds of animals including cows, goats, turkeys, and more that love taking pictures with visitors. Walker Homestead boasts several varietals of wine from grapes grown onsite for good boomerang cheers post.
This one is for the cyclists out there! North Liberty just completed this gem in 2023 and it has become a popular spot for pictures. The trail is located along Highway 965 (or Ranshaw Way) with a tunnel made to go under the road. Both sides are beautifully landscaped with bicycle chains and gears making 3D art along the walls. With the mix of flowers and art, this path makes for some awesome pictures while your cruising along on your bike.
In rural Johnson County, Lake Macbride State Park is a favorite place for boating, hiking, fishing, camping, and more. That’s five-plus options for the perfect Instagram post. Tack on the amazing views, vibrant nature, animal life, and the lake, you have even more to show off. Whether you are visiting for an afternoon or a weekend, Lake Macbride features numerous amenities to enjoy year round.
Tucked behind the Hyatt Regency Hotel and Conference Center, the Iowa River Landing Wetland Park is home to a two-acre pond surrounded by five acres of wetlands. Elevated walkways wind all around with a viewing tower in the middle serving as an observation point. A limestone cropping with a waterfall also located on the north end. The park is an ideal location for Instagram with nature and great views all around.
