Iowa City: The Greatest Small City for the Arts. From acclaimed poets and playwrights to accomplished novelists and journalists, Iowa has been both host and home to literary genius. Stroll throughout downtown and experience the Literary Walk, a visual memorial to the scores of internationally recognized writers who have ties to the University of Iowa and Iowa City. While there, see a dazzling display of creativity in Iowa City’s Mural Project as well as colorful public murals inviting people to learn, live, and grow in this creative community.