About Our Host City
IOWA CITY, IOWA
Enjoy the Iowa River Landing by the Hotel
Welcome to the Iowa River Landing, a mixed-use neighborhood of passionate restauranteurs, shopkeepers and business owners who love to entertain and celebrate the good things in life. Nestled along the Iowa River with the breathtaking Iowa River Landing Wetland Park as our backdrop, this neighborhood offers something unique and unexpected.
Take a walk along our Sculpture Walk and find brew pubs, wine dives, boutiques, hotels and museums. View the Directory >
Wetland Park
Located between the Hyatt Regency Coralville Hotel & Conference Center and the Iowa River, is a two-acre pond surrounded by five acres of wetlands. A series of elevated walkways ring the pond and traverse the wetlands on the east side of the hotel, and a viewing tower serves as an observation point. A limestone outcropping with a cascading waterfall is located at the north end of the pond. The park is an ideal location for nature walks, bird watching, and wildlife photography.
Sculpture Walk
The Iowa River Landing Sculpture walk features 11 permanent sculptures throughout the Iowa River Landing neighborhood, with 4 featured in the Wetland Park behind the Hyatt Regency Hotel & Conference Center.
Learn more about the Sculpture Walk below, and plan your trip using our interactive map to see photos and a brief description of each sculpture.
Eat & Drink
The Iowa River Landing offers a variety of dining experiences for hungry visitors. With a choice of atmosphere from casual to fine dining, the Iowa River Landing has something that will surely satisfy all appetites.
30Hop
30Hop offers a trendy and comfortable dining experience featuring a menu built to satisfy every craving – from comfort food to bold, globally inspired foods. Add to the menu an extensive selection of local craft beers, top shelf liquor with a roof top patio and 30Hop is the perfect place to gather with friends and family. > 30hop.com
Backpocket Brewing
Backpocket Brewing is an Iowa-based production brewery and taproom inspired by German brewing techniques. The facility includes a state-of-the-art German brew house, which offers a variety of regular and seasonal brews. Backpocket is also home to award winning brick oven pizzas that pair perfectly with your favorite brew. > Backpocket Brewing
Blue Agave
The hottest & coolest modern Mexican food experience is at Iowa River Landing! Experience Blue Agave’s fresh margaritas and authentic Mexican cuisine. Perfect for a quick lunch, a bite before or after a show, or a great authentic dinner with friends and family. Carry-out, private parties and catering available. > Blue Agave
Things to Do
Experience the unique energy of Iowa City and the University of Iowa, where history, culture and entertainment come together. Enjoy great shopping, live music, local art and plenty of outdoor activities—there’s something to discover around every corner.
Shop The Iowa River Landing
Conveniently located off of Interstate 80, the Iowa River Landing offers a unique retail experience for residents and visitors alike. Shoppers will enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Iowa River and the surrounding area as they stroll through the open air, taking in all of the unique retail opportunities the Landing has to offer. > SHOP
Sweet Treats
Cookies & Dreams is more than just really, really, really good cookies! Cookies & Dreams is about joy, connection and celebration. The “Dream Team” bakes sprinkle studded smiles each & every day.
Scratch Cupcakery is an award-winning bakery with a menu that features over 250 dazzling and delicious cupcake flavors. In addition, Scratch offers cookies, hot drinks, milkshakes and more.
Antique Car Museum of Iowa
The Antique Car Museum of Iowa prides itself in educating visitors on the history of transportation. The 28,000 square foot showroom features 90+ cars ranging from year 1899 to the mid 1970’s, along with an early 20th century Skelly gas station, and an exhibit featuring the Abernathy Boys.
Stay & Extend Your Trip: Check out Iowa City's Downtown:
Iowa City is a vibrant destination blending history, culture and creativity
Known for its vibrant arts scene, lively downtown and top-tier dining, Iowa City offers something for everyone. Take in scenic river views, experience Big Ten sports and explore the rich history of the Old Capitol. With festivals, craft breweries, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a destination you won’t forget!
Eat & Drink
Renowned as Iowa’s culinary hotspot, nearly every street in Downtown Iowa City offers exceptional dining and drinks. Whether you're savoring dishes from award-winning farm-to-table chefs or grabbing a quick, delicious deli sandwich, the Downtown District has something to satisfy every craving. Plus, with over 50 charming sidewalk cafés, you can enjoy your meal while soaking in the vibrant city atmosphere.
BEST BBQ in Iowa City?
Hear it straight from local food lovers—nothing beats real customer feedback! Discover where to find the best BBQ in Iowa City, as recommended by those who know it best.
Here's what they say!
TOP SAMMIES
Cubano - Tribute Eatery and Bar
Cook's Deluxe - Quiton's Bar & Deli
Korean BBQ Steak - 30hop
Pork Tenderloin - 30hop
Dundee - Shorts
Mickys house burger - Mickys
Reuben - Donnelly’s Pub
Nodo Pork - Nodo ... this is a fan fave and a must!!!
BURGERS
If you're a burger foodie, check out this video showcasing the best mouthwatering burgers town.
Warning: you'll need a burger immediately after watching this.
Things to Do
Experience the unique energy of Iowa City and the University of Iowa, where history, culture and entertainment come together. Enjoy great shopping, live music, local art and plenty of outdoor activities—there’s something to discover around every corner.
Visit the OLD CAPITOL MUSEUM
A must-see in Iowa City, the Old Capitol is a historic icon that has served state legislatures, university functions, and withstood major renovations. Now a National Historic Landmark, the Old Capitol Museum invites you to explore its rich history.
Check it out!
LIVE from the DIVE
Bringing a little Music City to Iowa City!
Located in a historic building from the 1800’s that was once home to the Iowa City Public Library, Elray’s Live & Dive features 3 stages across 2 levels and hosts approximately 500 performances each year from local, regional, and national musicians and DJs.
BARS & NIGHTLIFE
Need a place to unwind after the conference?
Think Iowa City has got you covered with this lengthy list of bars and nightlife spots in the city.
Questions about the National Strip-Tillage Conference?
For general conference inquiries contact Strip-Till Farmer
by phone at (866) 839-8455 or (262) 432-0388;
by fax at (262) 786-5564;
or by email at info@striptillfarmer.com To learn about group attendance discounts and sponsorship opportunities contact: Téa Robinson
at (262) 777-2430 or trobinson@lessitermedia.com
