
Many people travel from out of town to shop in Iowa City as it is one of the premier places to shop til you drop in Iowa. Not only does it have national stores that many people know and love within
Coral Ridge Mall and the
Outlets at Williamsburg but there are also plenty of independent, locally run shops sprinkled throughout the region. With some of the best shopping in the state
Agents in our Iowa City office shared the shops they love that are sure to leave a dent in your wallet.
Apparel & Home Goods
The Pedestrian Mall or better known as the 'Ped Mall' in Iowa City is close to the university and features a great variety of shops sure to align with all shopping needs. The Ped Mall has an atmosphere that is unique to the city with its paved paths, string lights, and flower boxes plus it often highlights an art structure or exhibit that pedestrians can engage and view. It's a beautiful sight at any time of year, but the Ped Mall comes alive in the summer months. Some favorite shops here include
Prairie Lights Books, "a pretty famous bookstore",
Beadology, Iowa Artisans Gallery, notorious T-shirts & gifts shop,
Raygun, Ragstock, Beno's Flowers & Gifts,
Critical Hit Games, and
Bread Garden Market.
The Iowa River Landing is another favorite shopping destination for those looking for some retail therapy in Iowa City. And with large retail stores like
Anthropologie,
Lululemon and
J.Jill, and
Evereve, we see why it's a popular spot. It's also a great place to discover new stores like
R7 Reclaimed,
Cielo, The
Funky Zebras Boutique and
The Silo.
If shopping for produce is your idea of fun you have to stop by the
New Pioneer Co-op. The Co-op has been around since the 1970s when members could pay a $20 membership to "New Pi" to access a wide assortment of bulk items including grains, beans, butters, honey, and cheese. From the 1970s to now, the New Pioneer Co-op has grown from a couple of hundred members to over 30,000 and there are now three locations in one each in Iowa City, Coralville, and Cedar Rapids.
Shop the
White Rabbit for eclectic gifts and home goods you can't find anywhere else, like a disco ball hanging planter, or tongue and check needle and thread wall hanging. They have a 'local-ish' section to browse if wanting to support even more local vendors.
Thrifting
When you shop at
Crowded Closet you have the opportunity to support more than just a local store in the community, your money is going back to help others in the Iowa City and surrounding areas. This vibrant and engaging local non-profit began in 1978 and has been a helpful staple in the Iowa City community ever since.
Continue on your hunt for vintage clothing, furniture, and knick-knacks by stopping by
Artifacts, "the leading quality vintage resales shop," in the area. They have recently expanded to be able to house even more items!
The Great Outdoors & Hobbies
Family-owned and operated outdoor haven,
Fin & Feather is where you go to find all your outdoor activity gear and apparel. The shops doors opened in 1967 specializing in fishing and hunting and has expanded to incorporate campaign and water recreation equipment. Fin & Feather is "small enough to know you, but big enough to serve you."
Whether you are looking to buy an item for your hobby or to find a hobby event, all can be accomplished at
The Hobby Corner. With weekly events like 'Board Game Day' and 'Friday Night Magic', you can try out a new game or plan one you already love! Find used some of your old favorites here in their used games section.
Fred's Feed & Supply in West Liberty is "more than just a feed store!" This feed and supply store has everything from hardware, paint, lawn, and garden to pet food to U-Haul rents. "If they don't have it then it doesn't likely exist!"
Lease on Life also features items for your furry friend. Lease on Life has food, treats, toys, and even photography available for all animals from bunnies to puppies!
You don't need to have a green thumb to enjoy visiting
Iowa City Landscaping & Garden Center. This expansive center includes a home goods and gifts shop with a variety of beautiful lifestyle decor. And if you do have a green thumb, be sure to carve out some time to browse the garden center to find the plant, flower, tree, or shrub to enhance your curb appeal!
What's better than a bouquet of fresh flowers? At
Every Bloomin' Thing they encourage to "give nature's original earth-friendly gift" and after viewing the gorgeous arrangements in store, we'd be more than happy to receive a flower delivery from this charming shop!
To learn more about the
Iowa City area and what it has to offer like community events and favorite restaurants – check out our
Iowa City community page. View homes for sale, find an agent, and learn more about the town.