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

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 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 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 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 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.

6. Burlington

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 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 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 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

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 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.