When it comes to cities in Iowa, there’s definitely an allure to the excitement of a big city and small towns have their own simple, slow-paced charm. But there’s also something to be said for medium-sized cities. They’re just big enough to have a variety in terms of arts, entertainment, restaurants, and other interesting activities. But they’re still small enough to be laid back, manageable, and just generally livable. Here are 11 Iowa cities that aren’t too big and aren’t too small. They’re just right.

 

1. Marion
Marion, IA, USA
Facebook/Uptown Marion District
With a population of about 41,000, this Iowa city is right in that sweet spot. Marion has plenty of historic charm, with coffee shops, restaurants, and community activities, like the annual art fair. The Campbell Steele Gallery is also a local treasure, with art, crafts, live music events, and more. See what else you can do in a trip to Marion.
2. Cedar Falls
Cedar Falls, IA, USA
Facebook/Cedar Falls Downtown
Cedar Falls has a population of about 40,000 and it’s home to the University of Northern Iowa. With the Hearst Center for the Arts and sculpture garden, the UNI art gallery, theaters, great shopping, and more, this medium-sized city in Iowa offers that college-town charm with plenty of entertainment to keep you busy. Learn more about Cedar Falls' Hartman Reserve Nature Center.
3. Iowa City
Iowa City, IA, USA
Flickr/Alan Light
Iowa City has a population of about 74,000, and it’s home to the University of Iowa. While the population is a little on the higher side, this is one of those cities in Iowa that really has a relaxed atmosphere, making it seem smaller than it is. Iowa City is a literary hub, since it’s home to the prestigious Iowa Writer’s Workshop. Pair that with plenty of museums, sporting events, art theaters, a brand new performing arts auditorium, Hancher, and a bustling pedestrian mall downtown, and Iowa City has it all. And be sure to check out Midtown Family Restaurant while you are in the area.
4. Bettendorf
Bettendorf, IA, USA
Flickr/Dustin Oliver
Bettendorf is a town on the Mississippi River with a population of about 39,000. It is the smallest of the Quad Cities, with all of the charm and benefits of being located on the river. There’s plenty to do here, like visit the Bettendorf Family Museum, Devil’s Glen Park, a wooded area with plenty of scenic trails, and Lock and Dam No. 14, a great place to enjoy the river and watch for eagles and other river wildlife. Ross' Restaurant is an excellent spot to grab a bite to eat.
5. Marshalltown
Marshalltown, IA 50158, USA
Flickr/David Wilson
Marshalltown is on the smaller side, with a population of about 27,000, but there’s still plenty to do and see. You can sample some locally brewed beer at the Iowa River Brewing Company, visit the big treehouse, a 12-level, 55-foot high treehouse, or just go downtown and wander through the shops of one of the best Iowa cities. Read up on dining in Marshalltown.

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6. Burlington
Burlington, IA, USA
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
Burlington is another Mississippi River town, and it’s as interesting as it is charming. With a population of about 23,000, it’s sleepy, but not too sleepy. Whether you want to explore the historic downtown of this medium-sized city in Iowa, sample some of the amazing local cuisine, or visit Snake Alley, the most crooked street in the world, you definitely won’t be bored. Get more details on Snake Alley in Burlington.
7. Ottumwa
Ottumwa, IA 52501, USA
Flickr/Joanna Poe
Ottumwa has a population of around 25,000 and is located in southeastern Iowa along the Des Moines River. Ottumwa is called the city of bridges because it is split into northern and southern halves by the river. One of the nicest cities in Iowa, there are many things to do here, like see a live performance at the Bridge View Center, take a stroll on the trail along the river, visit the Freedom Rock, and have lunch at Canteen Lunch in the Alley, an iconic lunch counter that serves the best loose meat sandwich you’ll have in your life. If you want to stay overnight here, consider the historic Hotel Ottumwa.
8. Fort Dodge
Fort Dodge, IA 50501, USA
Facebook/City of Fort Dodge, Iowa Official Page
Fort Dodge has a population of about 25,000. It’s a major commercial center for North Central and Northwest Iowa. One of the most lively Iowa cities, there are many interesting things to do in Fort Dodge, like visiting the Fort Museum and Frontier Village, going to the Blanden Memorial Art Museum, or checking out some live theater. The downtown area is also great for shopping and dining, and there’s even a winery called Soldier Creek Winery. Kennedy Memorial Park is also a must-see.
9. Ames
Ames, IA, USA
Wikipedia/Manop
Ames has a population of about 66,000 and it’s home to Iowa State University. Iowa State is known for its Agriculture, Design, Engineering, and Veterinary colleges. There’s much to do in this medium-sized city in Iowa, including art centers and museums, the Ames Historical Society, and Reiman Gardens, a 17-acre public garden, just to name a few. Ames is also known to be a haunted place in Iowa.
10. Muscatine
Muscatine, IA 52761, USA
Wikipedia/Thug outlaw69
Located on the Mississippi River, Muscatine has a population of around 23,000. Interesting things to do include visiting the Riverfront, which includes Pearl City Station, Riverview Center, Riverside Park, and the "Mississippi Harvest" sculpture by Erik Blome, checking out the view at the Mark Twain Scenic Overlook, and paying a visit to the Muscatine Art Center. If you want to stay overnight, consider The Merrill.
11. Council Bluffs
Council Bluffs, IA, USA
Wikipedia/Jared Winkler
Council Bluffs is an interesting town located in Western Iowa. The population is about 62,000, and it is located on the east bank of the Missouri River, across from Omaha, Nebraska. One of the finest cities in Iowa, there are many things to keep people occupied, like the Union Pacific Railroad Museum, the historic Pottawattamie County Squirrel Cage Jail and Museum, and the Hitchcock Nature Center in the beautiful and unique terrain of Iowa’s Loess Hills. Grab a bite to eat at Tobey Jack's while you are in the area.

 

What do you think of these medium-sized cities in Iowa? What are some of your favorites? Tell us in the comments below!

Are you more of a small-town person? Read about these 10 slow-paced small towns in Iowa.

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More to Explore

Towns and Cities in Iowa

Rachel Raimondi | March 29, 2023

What are the oldest towns in Iowa?

There is plenty of history to the Hawkeye State and many of the cities in Iowa. Check out some of the oldest towns in Iowa:

Dubuque: This town was established back in 1833. It is the oldest city in the state, settled by Julien Dubuque. Visit his monument that overlooks the Mississippi River to learn more. You can also check out the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, and a whole lot more.

Davenport: Dating back to 1839, this Scott County locale is an important river town located in the eastern part of the state. Some points of interest here include the 1832 Claim House, the Figge Art Museum, and the Skybridge.

Des Moines: The capital city of Iowa dates back to 1851. For history, you can check out the Big Creek Schoolhouse and the Jordan House. And be sure to visit the Des Moines Art Center.

Council Bluffs: Located in Pottawattamie County, this town was incorporated in 1853. While you can visit the Union Pacific Railroad Museum and the RailsWest Railroad Museum here, a great way to take in its history is to visit the West Broadway Historic District, which has over a dozen historic houses.

What are the most charming small towns in Iowa?

If you want to take in some of the more relaxed Iowa cities, check out some of the most charming small towns in Iowa:

Decorah: This town in Winneshiek County celebrates its Norwegian past through museums like the National Norwegian-American Museum. You can also take in the gorgeous scenery at places like Dunning's Spring Park.

Elkader: Located in Clayton County, this is a great area for outdoor lovers, with the Keystone Bridge and the Motor Mill Historic Site to explore. And the Carter House Museum is also great for history buffs.

McGregor: With a prime location along the Mississippi River, this town in Clayton County has something for everyone. Explore Pike’s Peak State Park and all of its recreation or just head downtown to take in the businesses and 1800s architecture.

Which towns in Iowa have the best restaurants? 

Iowa is a great place to be if you’re hungry. Check out some of the best towns in Iowa with the best restaurants:

Winterset: Come for the John Wayne Birthplace Museum and the Winterset City Park and stay to eat at restaurants like the Little Dublin Irish Pub and Mi Pueblito.

Coralville: This town is full of fun things to do like the Antique Car Museum and the Center for Performing Arts as well as great restaurants. Try the Iowa River Power Restaurant and 30Hop Coralville.

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