National Tourism Week 2022
Hidden Gem
There are a lost of hidden gems in Johnson County, but one off the beaten path is Baxa’s Sutliff Store and Tavern and the Sutliff Bridge. Offering drinks and food, everything on the menu at Baxa’s is $10.95 or less. Hundreds of dollar bills cover the ceiling and on Sundays you can jam to live music. Just a few steps from the front door is the famous Sutliff Bridge that goes over the Cedar River. Built in 1897, it is the perfect place to take your food to-go or for a walk. A perfect visit for great food, great views, and great people.
Tour Tuesday
If you travel to downtown Iowa City you will likely see what is called the Ped Mall. It is an all outdoor walking area filled with places to go and things to see. Formally named the Pedestrian Mall, there are 10 restaurants and bars, 10 retail stores, coffee, frozen yogurt, entertainment options, and even public art. It was completed in 1979 and continues to be an area in Iowa City where people flock to for a good time.
Before and After
Those who are not originally from the area may not know how big of a transformation the Iowa River Landing in Coralville has had over the years. Watch the video below and you’ll understand. Once filled with old cars and rusty buildings, the IRL is now one of the area’s most popular places with several restaurants, shops, hotels, a hospital, and a 5,000 seat arena. With all it has to offer now, more is set to come.
Eyes On Events
Visiting the Iowa City area in the summer months is a must. There is always something going on no matter what the day is. There are also plenty of big events and festivals that need to go on your summer calendar. First-up on May 21-22 is the World Team Trials at Xtream Arena in Coralville. Next is the Downtown Iowa City Block Party on June 25. After that is Jazz Fest in Iowa City and 4th Fest in Coralville both on the weekend of July 1. Blues and BBQ follows in North Liberty on July 9. Then the summer winds down with FRYfest on September 2 in Coralville.
Toast to Tourism
Here’s a toast to tourism! The Iowa City area has whatever you like when it comes to spirits. We have three breweries in Big Grove, Backpocket, and Reunion. There are two winery’s in Walker Homestead and Cedar Ridge – who is also a distillery. We also have a Cidery in Wilson’s Orchard. Beer, wine, whiskey, and cider. What more could you want? No matter which one you choose, we know you’ll be impressed.
