You'll Fall In Love With This Quiet Iowa Town That Has More Books Than People

This small Midwestern city is known for being a college town, but over the decades, it has truly cemented its legacy as the American capital of creative writing, historic book stores, publishing, and literature.

Prairie Lights has been an iconic bookshop since 1978, and it moved to its current location in 1982. Now, this three-and-a-half story literature mecca is full of titles from local authors as well as the largest names in writing.

That extra "half floor" is dedicated to a cafe. Here, you'll find plenty of space to thumb through potential purchases or cozy up with your favorite book and a hot cup of coffee.

Address: 15 S Dubuque St., Iowa City, IA 52240

The Haunted Bookshop was established in 1978 and has changed locations a few times in the past. Currently, it's located in a beautiful home that was built in 1847. They carry more than 45,000 titles and maintain 80 different sections. You won't find new books here, just well-loved used books looking for their next home. The shop is curated by two cats — Logan and Nierme — alongside their people. Oh, and about the ghosts? Rest assured they won't bother you! The Haunted Bookshop is named after the book by Christopher Morley.

Address: 219 N Gilbert St., Iowa City, IA 52245

You'll find thousands of comic books, manga, and hero-themed gifts here. There's always something new and unusual in stock, and it's a great shop for anyone seeking the perfect gift for any special occasion.

Address: 21 S Dubuque St., Iowa City, IA 52240

The University of Iowa Bookstore is home to all things Iowa. They've got sweatshirts, pint glasses, hats, and other souvenirs, and many people stop by to pick up some swag. Don't forget, though, that at its core, this is a bookstore! Thousands of titles are available for you to look through, many of them written by University of Iowa professors.
br>Address: 8 S Clinton St., Iowa City, IA 52240

Not only is Uptown Bill's one of Iowa's finest coffee houses, offering Cafe del Sol brews, 20 varieties of tea, and a huge selection of soda pop, but they support the community wholly. Order a sandwich and feel good about supporting a coffee house that's truly a community center, dedicated to helping Iowans with developmental disabilities live life to the fullest. Try a shake or a sundae from the old Pearson's Ice Cream counter and enjoy the live entertainment all around you. Each Wednesday night, stick around for Spoken Word. Thursdays is Open Mic night, so gather round to support local voices. On Saturdays, join Uptown Bill's for concerts put on by local and nationally touring groups. There's always something happening here!

Address: 730 S Dubuque St., Iowa City, IA 52240