Iowa is not just a corn and soybean state. While the state has taken some hits recently, it’s still a great place to live and visit. Cedar Rapids is one of those cities that can surprise you with its charm, diversity, and fun things to do. I recently stayed there for the first time and found that there was much more than meets the eye! Here are 21 things I recommend doing while in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is America’s only museum devoted to Czechs and Slovaks.
Its comprehensive collection of artifacts, images, and papers highlights these people’s contributions to our country’s history.
The library has about 10,000 titles on Czechoslovakia/Czech Republic history and genealogical resources. Exhibits feature various subjects, including immigration, rural life, Christmas traditions, and the military.
There’s even an exhibit honoring Iowa’s WWII Medal of Honor recipients, including James A. Wallace, who was featured on ABC News Nightline.
– Address: 1400 Inspiration Pl SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
– Phone: (319) 362-8500
– Website: https://ncsml.org/
Brucemore is a historic estate in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, built in the 1880s for the Sinclair family.
The Queen Anne-style mansion features 21 rooms across three floors, surrounded by 26 acres of gardens, a pond, a greenhouse, and outbuildings.
Brucemore is now restored for public tours, events, and education. The estate has been home to Cedar Rapids’ prominent families, including the Douglas family, who contributed to the city’s cultural and business institutions.
Today, it’s a cultural center with various events like concerts, plays, and festivals.
– Address: 2160 Linden Dr SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
– Phone: (319) 362-7375
– Website: https://www.brucemore.org/
Cedar Rapids, Museum of Art features, exhibits that change regularly and has a permanent collection of over 2,000 pieces. The entry cost is $5 for adults; seniors and children 12 years old and younger are admitted for free.
On your visit to this iconic Iowa museum, you’ll find everything from contemporary paintings by notable artists like Picasso to sculptures made from unusual materials such as popcorn or fiberglass tubes. There’s even a room devoted entirely to Native American artwork!
– Address: 410 3rd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
– Phone: (319) 366-7503
– Website: https://www.crma.org/
Czech Village/New Bohemia is a neighborhood bursting with local culture in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Visitors can enjoy traditional Czech cuisine, including kolaches and klobasniky, at the many restaurants, bars, and shops. The unique architecture adds to the neighborhood’s charm.
Art lovers can also view dozens of colorful murals by local artists, including favorites by Mural Arts Program founder Jane Golden and artist Scott Reeder.
Don’t miss the interactive mural created by Red Letter Christians Academy Elementary School students during their annual “Art Attack” fundraiser event.
– Address: 208 12th Ave SE G, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
– Phone: (319) 361-1901
– Website: https://the-district.org/
The Paramount Theater is one of Cedar Rapids’ oldest buildings, dating back to 1928. It’s been renovated into a concert venue and event space that offers some of the best shows in town.
In addition to musical performances, it hosts weddings and other private events like birthday parties or anniversaries.
The theater has beautiful murals on its walls and ceiling–you can see them when you look up while watching a stage show!
The murals were painted by local artist Frank Reilly who was commissioned by The Paramount Foundation (the nonprofit organization that owns this historic building) during World War II when art supplies were scarce due to rationing laws enforced by Congress during wartime conditions between 1939-1945
– Address: 123 3rd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
– Phone: (319) 366-8203
The Indian Creek Nature Center is a beautiful 290-acre natural oasis in the heart of Cedar Rapids.
It offers visitors a chance to connect with nature and learn about the local flora and fauna through its interactive exhibits, educational programs, and hiking trails.
The center features several habitats, including prairies, woodlands, wetlands, and a butterfly garden.
Visitors can explore the various ecosystems, observe wildlife in their natural habitats, and participate in educational programs for all ages. Additionally, the center has a gift shop, a bird-watching room, and a live animal exhibit that features local reptiles, amphibians, and birds of prey.
– Address: 5300 Otis Rd SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
– Phone: (319) 362-0664
– Website: https://indiancreeknaturecenter.org/
NewBo City Market is a public market located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. It’s part of the New Bohemia District, and it’s open year-round. The market has over 50 shops and restaurants, so there are plenty of things to do!
NewBo City Market is home to many local businesses like art galleries, boutiques, and coffee shops. You can also find national brands like Forever 21 or Jamba Juice here!
– Address: 1100 3rd St SE Booth 32, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
– Phone: (319) 200-4050
– Website: https://www.newbocitymarket.org/
This museum offers intriguing insights into the vibrant history of African Americans in Iowa.
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday and displays various topics, including education, sports, and entertainment. Visitors may study relics like slave-era clothes or photos from the age of segregation in schools across the nation through interactive exhibits that immerse them in various historical eras.
Age-based admission prices range from $7 for adults to free for children under six. If you’re taking more minor children, consider bringing something to occupy them while you tour this excellent museum.
– Address: 55 12th Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
– Phone: (319) 862-2101
– Website: https://blackiowa.org/
The Cedar River is a tributary of the Mississippi River that flows through Cedar Rapids.
It boasts a rich environment and is famous for outdoor activities, including fishing, swimming, boating, and canoeing.
Numerous fish species, including bass and catfish, live in the river, as do multiple waterfowl species, including mallards, blue-winged teal ducks (Anas discors), Canada geese (Branta canadensis), and green-winged teal ducks (Anas carolinensis).
The Grant Wood Studio is located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and is a historic landmark once the residence of famous American artist Grant Wood.
The studio has been preserved and restored to its original appearance, giving visitors a glimpse into the life and work of this influential artist.
Inside the studio, visitors can see many of Grant Wood’s original works, including some of his most famous paintings, as well as personal items and artifacts that give insight into his creative process.
– Address: 810 2nd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
– Phone: (319) 366-7503
– Website: https://www.crma.org/
The Cedar Rapids Public Library is the most extensive in Iowa, with more than 1.3 million items collected. It was built in 1902 and featured a large meeting room and theater that the public could rent for special events.
The library also has extensive programming for all ages, including reading groups for adults and kids’ activities like Minecraft tournaments or movie nights at their new downtown location.
The Grant Wood Window is a stunning stained glass masterpiece in the Veteran’s Memorial Auditorium.
Designed by Cedar Rapids-born artist Grant Wood, renowned for his paintings depicting American rural life, this piece was completed in 1927, shortly before Wood’s untimely death at age 44.
The centerpiece of the window features an American soldier holding up a flag on a battlefield filled with fallen bodies and weapons. Behind him, an angel carries a dove of peace.
On either side of the centerpiece, the window depicts scenes of war-related activities, including soldiers marching into battle and wounded veterans returning home from overseas.
The intricate details of the window are well worth admiring up close.
– Address: 50 2nd Ave Bridge, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
– Phone: (319) 286-5038
– Website: https://www.cedar-rapids.org/
After the passing of well-known Cedar Rapids industrialist Sampson Bever, whose family owned the forested property, Bever Park was created in 1893.
The park has grown over time, including a playground, picnic shelters, and soccer fields. Bever Park is in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, near Fourth Street and First Avenue SE.
– Address: 2700 Bever Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
– Phone: (319) 286-5760
The History Center is a great place to learn about the history of Cedar Rapids.
It’s located on the north side of town and has a beautiful collection of artifacts worldwide.
The center also hosts special exhibits throughout the year, such as one that focuses on how people lived during World War II or another exploring how Iowa was affected by Prohibition.
– Address: 800 2nd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
– Phone: (319) 362-1501
– Website: https://www.historycenter.org/
McGrath Amphitheatre is a great place to see a concert or movie.
It’s located in McGrath Amphitheatre Park, with other activities such as hiking, fishing, and picnics.
There are often live music events here in the summer that feature local artists and bands from across Iowa.
On weekends during the winter months, you can catch some movies under the stars at 8:30 pm on Friday nights!
– Address: 475 1st St SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
– Phone: (319) 362-1729
– Website: http://mcgrathamphitheatre.com/
Clock House Brewing is a famous craft brewery in Cedar Rapids’ Czech Village.
Offering a broad range of beers, including some unique traditional styles, this brewery stands out from others. Notably, they have a fantastic ambiance and extended opening hours, staying open until midnight on weekdays and 1 AM on weekends.
Their vast outdoor seating area is ideal for relaxing and enjoying the warm summer weather with friends. Clock House Brewing is also renowned for its live music events that run every weekend from noon until 6 PM, creating an exciting and lively atmosphere worth experiencing.
– Address: 600 1st St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
– Phone: (319) 200-4099
– Website: https://www.clockhousebrewing.com/
Ushers Ferry Historic Village is a history museum showcasing Cedar Rapids’ early years.
Located on a bluff overlooking the Cedar River Valley, the village offers visitors a chance to explore life during Iowa’s pioneer days from 1838 to 1865.
With over 25 restored buildings filled with artifacts like clothing and farm equipment, visitors can glimpse how people lived during this era.
Guided tours are available on most weekends during the spring and summer months, or visitors can participate in hands-on activities such as making butter.
– Address: 5925 Seminole Valley Trail NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52411
– Phone: (319) 286-5763
The Islamic Center of Cedar Rapids is a mosque in the heart of Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
The center is an essential hub for the local Muslim community and provides various services and programs to its members.
Islamic traditions inspire the mosque’s architecture, and it features a dome and a minaret. The mosque has a large prayer hall that can accommodate hundreds of worshippers.
The center also has classrooms, a library, and a kitchen for community events. The center welcomes visitors and offers guided tours to those interested in learning more about Islam and the Muslim community in Cedar Rapids.
– Address: 2999 1st Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52405
– Phone: (319) 362-0857
– Website: http://www.crmosque.com/
Lindale Mall is a premier shopping destination in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, with over 100 stores, including popular brands such as American Eagle Outfitters, Aeropostale, Bath & Body Works, and Charlotte Russe.
The mall also boasts a modern movie theater with stadium seating, providing a comfortable and exciting way to catch the latest blockbusters.
Hungry shoppers can head to the food court, featuring popular fast food chains like Chick-fil-A, Panera Bread, Pizza Hut Express, Subway Sandwiches & Salads, and upcoming additions like Taco Bell Mexican Grill and Wendy’s Old Fashioned Hamburgers & Fries.
For families with kids, there’s an area called Fun Zone, featuring arcade games like skeeball and basketball hoops.
Lindale also offers free Wi-Fi throughout most parts of the mall and a nearby amusement park for those seeking additional entertainment.
– Address: 4444 1st Ave NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
– Phone: (319) 393-9393
– Website: https://lindalemall.com/
Sky Zone is the perfect place for both kids and adults to have a blast while getting some exercise.
They offer a large trampoline park, arcade, and birthday party packages.
With various trampolines, everyone can jump around with friends or family.
You can even play dodgeball or basketball while jumping, making it an exciting experience.
There’s also an indoor food area, but the options were limited and not as tasty as nearby restaurants like Pizza Ranch or The Counter.
For a unique and fun weekend activity in Cedar Rapids, Sky Zone is the answer!
– Address: 5515 Council St NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
– Phone: (319) 382-2222
– Website: https://www.skyzone.com/
Cedar Rapids Public Schools is a school district located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
The community has 23 schools, including 13 elementary schools, five middle schools, and five high schools. Built during 1890-91 and expanded twice in the next two decades.
Cedar Rapids Public Schools was founded 160 years ago by a group of individuals who sought to establish an independent education system for their city (then known as Rockford).
Today’s plan employs over 1,700 people who work tirelessly every day to guarantee that every child receives an excellent education from preschool to high school graduation.
– Address: 1103 3rd St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
– Phone: (319) 364-1580
– Website: https://cspshall.org/
We hope our list of things to do in Cedar Rapids has given you a decent impression of what the city has to offer. We realize this is not a complete list, but we feel these are some of the most incredible things to do in “the River City.” If you have any questions or comments concerning this blog article, please leave them in the comments box below!
