Get a glimpse of the marvels of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Check out the list of the best things to do in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and places to go in Cedar Rapids, Iowa below. Wondrous Drifter is a cutting-edge, Web 3.0 travel startup that aspires to change the world.
Table Of Content
- African American Museum of Iowa
- Bever Park
- Brucemore
- Cedar Rapids Museum of Art
- Cedar Rapids Public Library
- Clock House Brewing
- Czech Village
- Ellis Park Golf Course
- Grant Wood Studio and Visitor Center
- Hawkeye Downs
- Indian Creek Nature Center
- Lindale Mall
- Masonic Library and Museum
- National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
- NewBo City Market
- Palisades-Kepler State Park”
- Paramount Theatre
- The History Center
- Ushers Ferry Historic Village
- Veterans Memorial Stadium
- Volunteer At Animal Shelters
African American Museum of Iowa
Learn more about African American history in the African American Museum!
Cedar Rapids’ African American Museum is situated on the flats of the Cedar River, in the center of the city’s downtown area.
When it was first established in 1994, it quickly became one of Iowa’s leading educational institutes on African American heritage.
Dedicated to showcasing, empowering, and illuminating the rich heritage of African American history in the United States and beyond, The African American Museum of Iowa is a non-profit educational institution.
The museum has a wide variety of exhibitions and events and a variety of activities for families and students.
The Iowa Griot, the museum’s quarterly newsletter, aims to keep the tradition intact so that it can benefit the future.
To better understand the world around you, the African American Museum offers a steady stream of events, experts, and seminars for the general public.
Live music, local merchants, and a street party are all part of the festivities.
All week except Sundays, visitors are welcome at the museum.
The museum is a must-see! Make sure to stop by the place!
Address: 55 12th Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
Bever Park
Want the kids to have a blast?
Take them to the Beer Park!
The Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation Department manages and operates Old McDonald’s Farm at Bever Park.
Bever Park in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is home to several family-friendly attractions.
Everyone can visit Old MacDonald’s Farm. Some of the farm’s animals include rabbits, piglets, ducks, goats, lambs, calves, chickens, etc.
Bever Pak is a great place to take your kids since they’ll like touching the animals and running around the park. In the animal enclosure, you’ll see and engage with the animals.
Bever Park also features a swimming pool and a park where you may spend quality time with friends and family.
Dogs are permitted in the park, but their owners must keep them under control.
Make sure to visit Bever Park if you’re going to be in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, this weekend!
Address: 2700 Bever Park Trail, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
Brucemore
Centuries-old homes are always a thing of beauty.
Visit Brucemore and explore the property!
On a historic 26-acre property in Cedar Rapids, Brucemore is a beautiful nineteenth-century home that serves as a tribute to the lives of three notable local residents.
It is located on a hill above the town’s main thoroughfare and was formerly referred to as “the greatest mansion west of Chicago.”
The home was originally built in the Queen Anne style. Still, the new owners, George and Irene Douglas, refurbished it in a more modest Craftsman style when the style went out of favor.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation received the property from the last occupant of Brucemore in 1981.
In addition to the grounds, which include a woodland walk, ponds, pool, garden home, guest house, and servants’ town, there is a greenhouse on the property.
Throughout the year, Brucemore hosts a variety of theatrical and musical performances.
Try to make it to one of their performances. It’s definitely a one-of-a-kind experience!
Address: 2160 Linden Dr SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
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Cedar Rapids Museum of Art
You’ll love the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art if you’re an art enthusiast!
It was founded in 1905 by the Cedar Rapids Art Club, which opened a gallery in the new Carnegie Library and began showing artwork to the community.
The Cedar Rapids Museum of Art offers a wide variety of ways for visitors to learn about and appreciate the arts.
Additionally, the museum houses several permanent and often changing exhibitions, including the world’s biggest collection of Grant Wood’s works.
Museum visitors may now see Grant Wood’s studio, where he operated from 1924 to 1935, as part of the collection.
You may see works like Young Corn in 1931 and Woman with Plants in 1929 and the studio where he made American Gothic, which was made in 1930.
Early Roman art is also on show in the museum, which dates back more than 600 years.
Art lovers should definitely give this place a visit!
Address: 410 3rd Avenue SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Cedar Rapids Public Library
The Cedar Rapids Public Library is all about the assortment of books and beautiful architecture!
As a public library, the Cedar Rapids Public Library serves the community by providing access to knowledge, ideas, and programs.
One of the best things to do in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is to go to the library for resources, knowledge, and amusement.
They serve as a light of information and wisdom for those who seek it.
They address European-American and African-American literature, applied science and biology, economics, and business.
With the help of the Hiawatha and Marion libraries, the Cedar Rapids Public Library and the Hiawatha Public Library may exchange various partners on programs, publications, and information.
There is a rooftop garden, a nursing room, and various additional activities for everyone to participate in.
With its large, 21st-century features and services, the architecture will win your heart, such as computerized book sorting.
Have a look at the library if you’re fond of books and architecture!
Address: 450 5th Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401-1904
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Clock House Brewing
Nothing beats a cold bottle of beer after a long tiring day!
In the center of uptown Cedar Rapids, Iowa, you’ll find The Clock House Brewing.
The Black Sheep Social Club has a Clock House Brewing taproom where you and your loved ones may enjoy a refreshing beverage together.
This brewery was born out of three like-minded beer aficionados’ desire to see craft breweries grow in number and stature.
The brewery aims to please everyone’s taste buds with a wide variety of beers.
The building looks magnificent, with red brick construction.
There is a lot of room inside, with a large seating area that extends out onto a terrace.
There is usually music playing and classic foods on the menu at this establishment.
For beer sampling and education on producing beer, the friendly proprietors also provide tours of the brewery.
Craft beers, English rums, Belgian whiskeys, and vodkas are just a few options offered.
After all the trips, if you want to unwind, this is the best location to settle down and sip amazing beers.
Address: 600 1st St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401-2016
Czech Village
The Czech Village is one of the top attractions in Iowa.
Understand the migration history of Czech, Moravian, and Slovak people to Cedar Rapids in Czech Village!
Many Czech, Moravian, and Slovak immigrants and their descendants call Cedar Rapids home.
When they first arrived in the early 1900s, they made their homes in the surrounding fields and communities around Cedar Rapids.
Czech Village and New Bohemia, two unique communities just outside of downtown, make together a fascinating area to the city’s southeast.
They are collectively referred to as The District for short.
Although it was destroyed by the 2008 flood, this area of town has seen a remarkable turnaround since then.
Czech Village is a historic, totally restored portion of the old commercial center.
In 2009, the city built Czech Village and the New Bohemia Main Street District as a way to offer a breath of new air to the town.
Festivals, performances by artists from all over the world, exhibitions of fine art, and other forms of culture abound in this area.
Over 40 shops, almost as many eateries, a cultural center, and a paved Cedar River Trail link downtown’s two outstanding museums.
If you’re going to be in town, visit this place!
Address: 101 16th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404,
Ellis Park Golf Course
Release your inner Tiger Woods in Ellis Park Golf Course!
Since 1919, people have been able to play golf at Ellis Park Golf Course. It is one of the most difficult courses in the nation.
In contrast to the large elevated greens on the front nine, the back nine has compact, sloping holes and uninterrupted cart routes through a picturesque, totally forested landscape.
You may play a game of golf or practice your swing at this facility.
Once you’ve finished your game, come to the clubhouse for lunch and take in the artwork created by local artist Payne Stewart.
On the back nine, wildlife that includes white-tailed deer, herons, foxes, and eagles is frequently seen.
Every club in your bag is needed on this course, and the current speed of play for nine holes is 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Ellis is renowned for its tough greens and large fairways, making it a great place to play golf.
Make a stop at Ellis Park Golf Course in Iowa if you want to play a round of golf!
Address: 1401 Zika Ave NW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52405
Grant Wood Studio and Visitor Center
If you’re into artwork and history, you’ll love the Grand Wood Studio!
Cedar Rapids’ Grant Wood Studio is a must-see attraction. You’ll be wowed by the stunning paintings and artworks on display, as well as the fascinating history of the studio.
Grant Wood created several of his most renowned works, including “American Gothic,” when he worked and resided in a renovated carriage house.
Additionally, you will be able to see paintings such as Paul Revere on his Midnight Ride and Dinner for the Threshing Crew at the studio.
Wood’s studio is still open to the public today, and visitors may see it in the same condition as when he lived there.
It’s one of the studio’s most intriguing characteristics that Wood used a wall to store his creative supplies.
Wood’s love of architecture and design can be seen in the studios.
Viewing Wood’s interior design and learning about his eccentricities for free on weekends from April to December is possible.
So be sure to give this place a visit!
Address: 810 2nd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA
Hawkeye Downs
The Hawkeye Downs is one of the best things to do in Iowa.
Nothing is better than watching cars zoom in front of you!
A Cedar Rapids landmark since 1925, the Hawkeye Downs Speedway and Expo Center is home to a wide range of events.
Race nights and other special events are held regularly at Iowa’s only full-time pavement racing track. A 35,000-square-foot show hall is also available for hire.
For decades, Hawkeye Downs has been the Midwest’s crown gem of short-track racing, providing outstanding outdoor family enjoyment!
With 10,000 visitors each year, it has a motocross racing track that spans a half-mile and one-quarter of a paved racing track.
On top of these regular events, it is frequently used for concerts, trade exhibitions, conventions, and other gatherings that need a large space.
Go-cart races, bicycle races, and auctions are all available to visitors.
In the double-elimination tournaments, they may even compete with their personal car for only $10.
If you are a big fan of cars, this place is worth visiting!
Address: 4400 6th St SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404,
Indian Creek Nature Center
Fun activities and beautiful greenery? This is the place for you!
The Indian Creek Nature Center offers educational and fun activities!
It is the mission of the Indian Creek Nature Center to create a sustainable future via the promotion of appropriate relationships with nature and the dissemination of environmental information to the general public.
Visitors may enjoy bird-watching, cross-country skiing, hiking, and fishing on 210 acres of property at the center, which includes grassland, woodland, and marshes.
It all revolves around the Amazing Space building, which was completed in 2016 and is now considered one of the world’s most environmentally friendly structures.
Exhibits are available for viewing and a wide range of activities, such as yoga sessions and concerts.
The Bird Room provides information on our feathered friends. The Creekside Shop sells delightful souvenirs, local honey, and maple syrup.
You may explore on your own or take part in a tour or special event that takes you through the various landscapes.
Don’t miss out on all the fun!
Address: 6665 Otis Road SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403,
Lindale Mall
Take a break from all your destinations and just shop around Lindale Mall!
There are approximately a hundred retailers and eateries in the Lindale Mall, a covered shopping mall.
As an added bonus, it is equipped with a few frills for the enjoyment of couples and families.
A large assortment of jewelry, apparel, specialized gifts, shoes, and a 500-seat food hall are available for visitors to choose from at the mall.
Enjoy a day of shopping or bargain-hunting at this fantastic mall. Visit Planet X for bumper cars and laser war, or eat in the mall’s food court.
The mall exhibits seasonal decorations for the holidays and organizes community activities, such as auto shows, science contests, and bids.
Kids may have fun and learn while their parents shop at the KidX Children’s Club, which is completely free to use.
If you’re seeking romantic activities in Cedar Rapids, go no further than Lindale Mall.
If you’re in the mood for some shopping therapy, head to this mall.
Address: 4444 1st Ave NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402,
Masonic Library and Museum
The Masonic Library and Museum is one of the best places to visit in Iowa.
All book lovers should not miss out on the Iowa Masonic Library in Iowa!
In the whole world, the Iowa Masonic Library is among the world’s largest Masonic libraries.
Founded in 1955, this museum is the first masonic library in the world to house its own facility.
More than 15,000 books are housed at this public library in Cedar Rapids.
The library’s collections include both Masonic and non-Masonic titles, and a list of those titles is available online.
Masonic publications and non-Masonic museum exhibits are available for visitors, regardless of whether they are serious Masonic researchers or curious observers.
Charles H. Swab’s memorial collection, which was given in 1958, is one of the three museum pieces in the collection.
Staff at the library are eager to share their knowledge with guests.
If you’re going to be around Cedar Rapids, Iowa, this weekend, please stop by the library!
Address: 813 1st Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402,
National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
Immerse yourself in Czech and Slovak history at The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library!
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is one of the most prominent cultural institutions in the state and the country.
After being submerged in 2008, the museum’s main building was relocated 480 feet to a higher, flood-proof location within 3 years.
The National Medal for Museum and Library Service was granted to the museum in 2013 for its first-class displays and activities and its ideology that promotes independence and human decency.
The National Czech & Slovak Museum and Library is dedicated to educating the public about Czech and Slovak culture, both here in Iowa and across the world, through permanent and revolving exhibitions.
However, while a self-guided tour of the Czech and Slovak Museum and Library is an excellent way to learn about the country’s history, the museum also provides guided tours.
This is one of the top places to visit in Iowa! Make sure to give this place a shot!
Address: 1400 Inspiration Place SW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
NewBo City Market
Looking for a place where you can eat, shop, and get entertained?
Well, your search is over!
NewBo City Market is the place you’re looking for!
Many restaurants, shops, and entertainment establishments may be located within a few blocks in the NewBo City Market.
For those looking to meet and shop while sampling some of the area’s finest cuisines, the market provides a distinct “Town Center” location.
A wide variety of locally sourced food and goods are available for purchase, including fruit, florals, meats and seafood, and home furnishings.
With its numerous independent cuisine and craft sellers, industrial kitchen, and room for special gatherings, the Rotary Hall is the market’s centerpiece in NewBo City.
The market acts as an accelerator to assist small and medium enterprises in growing and improving their goods and expertise.
From May to September, cooking demonstrations and live music are both presented regularly.
Don’t forget to stop by and support the local businesses!
Address: 1100 3rd Street SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
Palisades-Kepler State Park”
Craving for some outdoor adventures?!
You’re going to want to visit the Palisades-Kepler State Park!
Near the mouth of the Cedar River, nestled in a dense hardwood forest, is an amazing state park dedicated to preserving the river’s beautiful front cliffs and branching ravines.
The park was established in 1922 but roughly doubled in the area when Louis H. Kepler gave his land to it in 1928.
The Civilian Conservation Corps erected several of the park’s rustic buildings in the 1930s.
This state-owned park, which spans 840 acres, is known for its deep gorges and towering river cliffs.
This park offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
On the park’s river bluffs, you may go trekking or rock climbing for a dose of excitement.
Additionally, you may canoe and camp in this state park.
Palisades-Kepler State Park’s natural limestone riverbanks are rich in fossils and home to some of Iowa’s few outdoor climbing areas.
There are more than five miles of paths for hiking and fishing along the Cedar River amid the rough landscape.
This park has cottages and campsites for individuals who like to stay put for a while.
Come and visit the park for some nature adventure!
Address: 700 Kepler Dr, Mt Vernon, IA 52314, United States
Paramount Theatre
Looking for entertainment while in Cedar Rapids?
The Paramount Theatre has a lot in store for you!
As a cinema palace and a vaudeville venue, the theater has undergone a few reconstructions and repairs throughout the years, most notably during the catastrophic floods in 2008.
After undergoing extensive restoration, it is once again ready to host live entertainment, including Broadway shows and community events.
Although most of the 1970s décor was removed, the grandeur of the building remains.
Live comedy, visiting recording artists, symphony, children’s entertainment, and opera are just some of the events that take place at the facility, which has a capacity of over 1,900.
The Paramount Theatre is one of just 300 remaining movie palaces in the United States and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
B.B. King, Willie Nelson, and many other notable performers performed at the theater.
If you’re going to be in town, make sure to catch a show in the Paramount Theatre!
Address: 123 3rd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
The History Center
Absorb and immerse in Linn County’s history in the History Center!
Historic Douglas Mansion, built in 1897 in the Colonial Revival style, is now home to the Linn County History Museum. It has been there since 2018.
The History Center is a community asset for preserving and disseminating information about Linn County’s past.
An overview of Linn County’s history may be found at the History Center.
Among the topics covered are education and immigration, as well as transportation.
In addition to the center’s study library, which has over 20,000 items, the community has given over 50,000 well-preserved historical artifacts.
This is a long-term display supplemented by temporary exhibitions devoted to certain topics or historical events.
Upstairs you’ll find an opulent Round Room, which tells a fascinating tale of this historic home and its illustrious residents.
Educational programs for children and their parents are available.
Professionals may work with you to create individualized lessons for students of all ages.
The History Center is a must-visit. Be sure not to miss this out!
Address: 800 Second Avenue SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
Ushers Ferry Historic Village
Immerse in Iowa’s history and discover their culture in Ushers Ferry Historical Village!
Ushers Ferry Historic Village hosts a wide range of community-building projects, activities, and initiatives as a charity organization.
If you’ve ever wondered what life might have been like back in the days of township governments and the days when farmers built out their own roads, Ushers Ferry is the place to go.
Around the start of the twentieth century, Eastern Iowa village life can be glimpsed at this open museum in the western part of Cedar Rapids.
These original structures, a combination of civic and residential buildings, have been transferred to this location beside the Cedar River, well-known for its importance as a Native American campground.
This location may be hired out for private gatherings and holds seasonal events, including a Halloween party for the whole family and friends!
Check this place out! Look around or maybe rent the place for your birthday!
Address: 5925 Seminole Valley Trail NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52411,
Veterans Memorial Stadium
If you are a big baseball fan, you should definitely check out the Veterans Memorial Stadium!
An entirely new stadium was erected in 2002 to replace the demolished one to make way for the new Veterans Memorial Stadium, which opened in 2002.
As a Minnesota Twins’ farm system member, the Cedar Rapids Kernels play their home games in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Kernel’s record crowd of 196,066 was honored with the completion of the new stadium in time for the season opener.
Baseball fans will enjoy Veterans Memorial Stadium. This stadium will enthrall you with its stunning field, comfortable seats, 6-story LED scoreboard and enthusiastic patrons.
In addition, the stadium has held performances by performers like Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson, among others.
In appearance, the stadium is an aluminum-topped brown brick building, but within it is a lush stretch of green grass well suited to baseball.
Don’t miss out on this rare experience, baseball fans!
Address: 950 Rockford Rd SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
Volunteer At Animal Shelters
Please volunteer at animal shelters in your community. Animals deserve more protection than they currently have. Becoming involved in this movement can make a huge difference in their lives.
Volunteering to help animals gives people the power to change their community in a way that is good for animals. It allows them to see the good things they can do to help their community and animals in need.
When you think about helping animals, adoption or donations will probably come to mind. But there’s a more direct way of offering your assistance. Simply head over to an animal shelter nearby and volunteer your services! There are many ways you can help, from more labor-intensive activities like cleaning and grooming to advocacy, public relations, and even photography.
Volunteering at a local animal shelter and giving back to the community is one of the most fulfilling things you can do. Get started with this list of animal shelters in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
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