The entrance to the Cherokee Public Library has welcomed readers for over 120 years with everyone’s favorite four-letter word. (Photo: Cherokee Public Library)
By Jessica O’Riley
Reading is having a moment: Literary tourism has emerged as one of this year’s top travel trends. According to Hilton’s 2026 Trends Report, 68% of American travelers named reading among their top three most anticipated leisure activities. (The other two: listening to music or podcasts and relaxing by the pool.)
Iowa has strong literary roots, from the famed Iowa Writers’ Workshop and Iowa City’s designation as a UNESCO City of Literature to dozens of independent bookstores across the state.
Readers who are looking for a getaway with their fictional or IRL besties should consider a weekend in Cherokee.
Locals John and Molly Loughlin opened The Book Vine nearly 20 years ago in a lovingly restored roughly 130-year-old brick building on Main Street. In addition to a wide selection of books for all ages, the shop offers a variety of wines from around the world. The mezzanine serves as both a reading and writing space. The bookstore frequently hosts book clubs, author visits, wine tastings and puzzle competitions. Check the calendar on the store’s website for an updated list of events.
The Loughlins also own two loft spaces available to rent. One, called the Library Loft: Right Wing, is located directly above the bookstore. The space features a full kitchen, floor-to-ceiling windows, tin ceilings, hardwood floors and bookshelves stocked with reading material to enjoy in several cozy reading spots. The Library Loft: Left Wing is across the street, in another restored old building, which features a restored 10-foot-square skylight, chandeliers and a balcony.
According to Bethany Mortenson, who helps manage the lofts, guests have visited from across the country, including some who have used the spaces to write. Locals have been known to rent the lofts to take advantage of the 10-foot windows to watch the annual holiday parade.
If you want to curl up with a book all weekend, go for it — zero judgment. But there are several shops, restaurants and attractions around town that are worth a visit, including Mud On Main (a popular coffee shop), GastHaus Bar & Grille, the Sanford Museum & Planetarium (Iowa’s first planetarium), the Cherokee General Store, Wych Doctor Distillery, the American 3 Theater (fair warning: it’s possibly haunted) and an old-fashioned soda fountain located inside the Cherokee Main Street Pharmacy.
The Cherokee Public Library, a 1905 Carnegie Library, offers a Read-IT program at 10 a.m. every Thursday. Think of it as a book club in reverse: Instead of an assigned monthly read, each participant shares what they’re currently reading, so it’s a great way to gather recommendations for your next book — or literary trip.
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