Cedar Rapids IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
1. National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
CULTURAL HERITAGE SHOWCASE
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is a world-class cultural institution in Cedar Rapids that expanded to 50,000 square feet in July 2012. It features impressive exhibits including works by Alphonse Mucha and other artifacts highlighting Czech and Slovak heritage. The museum serves as one of the top attractions in Cedar Rapids, preserving the cultural legacy of Czech and Slovak immigrants to the area.
2. Brucemore
HISTORIC ESTATE GARDENS
Brucemore is a 26-acre, park-like estate featuring a stunning 21-room mansion that charts the history of Cedar Rapids. The National Trust Historic Site invites visitors to explore its rich history, beautiful gardens, and well-maintained grounds. Each season offers a different experience as nature changes the landscape of this living landmark.
3. Cedar Rapids Museum of Art
GRANT WOOD COLLECTION
The Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, established in 1905, houses the world's largest collection of works by Iowa-native Grant Wood. The 60,000-square-foot museum displays over 600 years of art from early Roman life alongside constantly rotating exhibits. The museum also operates the nearby Grant Wood Studio where the artist painted his famous 'American Gothic' masterpiece.
4. African American Museum of Iowa
BLACK HISTORY PRESERVATION
The African American Museum of Iowa is a statewide institution dedicated to preserving, exhibiting, and teaching Iowa's African American history. It stands as Iowa's leading educational resource on African American heritage and culture. The museum offers engaging exhibits that highlight the contributions and experiences of African Americans in Iowa's history.
5. Paramount Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Paramount Theatre is a historic venue on the National Register of Historic Places that brings the past and present together with first-class performances. Originally constructed in the 1920s as a movie palace and vaudeville performance space, it has been restored to its original grandeur following the 2008 floods. The theater hosts a variety of live performances including Broadway plays, community concerts, and is home to Orchestra Iowa.
6. NewBo City Market
COMMUNITY GATHERING SPACE
NewBo City Market is a community-based economic development organization that has become a cherished cultural gathering space in Cedar Rapids. The market features art, music, learning opportunities, and a range of activities that bring people together. It serves as a vibrant hub in the New Bohemia district, offering local food, crafts, and regular community events.
7. Mount Trashmore
RECLAIMED SCENIC OVERLOOK
Mount Trashmore is a former landfill transformed into a recreational area offering panoramic views of Cedar Rapids. The site has been reclaimed as a unique outdoor space with hiking and biking trails. Visitors can enjoy the scenic overlook that provides a bird's-eye view of the city and Cedar River.
8. Grant Wood Studio
AMERICAN GOTHIC BIRTHPLACE
The Grant Wood Studio is the authentic second-floor space of a late 19th century carriage house where the artist painted his masterpiece 'American Gothic'. Located just three blocks from the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, this modest red brick and wood building sits next to a large, elegant mansion. Visitors can tour this intimate creative space during open studio hours to experience where one of America's most iconic paintings was created.
9. Bever Park
FAMILY RECREATION AREA
Bever Park is a beloved community park offering diverse recreational opportunities for Cedar Rapids residents and visitors. The park features playgrounds, walking paths, and green spaces for families to enjoy outdoor activities. It provides a peaceful retreat within the city where people can connect with nature and participate in various leisure activities.
10. Indian Creek Nature Center
NATURAL EDUCATION PRESERVE
Indian Creek Nature Center offers a relaxing tour of natural habitats and educational experiences in Cedar Rapids. The center maintains trails through diverse ecosystems where visitors can observe local wildlife and plant species. It serves as an important environmental education resource, offering programs that connect people with the natural world.
11. The District: Czech Village & New Bohemia
HISTORIC CULTURAL DISTRICT
The District: Czech Village & New Bohemia is one of Cedar Rapids' most popular tourist attractions, showcasing the city's rich European heritage. This vibrant area features unique shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions that celebrate the Czech and Slovak influence on the region. Visitors can experience authentic cuisine, browse specialty stores, and immerse themselves in the distinctive architecture and atmosphere of this historic neighborhood.
12. Lion Bridge Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Lion Bridge Brewing Company is a local brewery in Cedar Rapids where visitors can sample award-winning craft beers. The brewery offers a welcoming atmosphere with a variety of house-made brews and complementary food options. It has become a community gathering spot that showcases the growing craft beer scene in Cedar Rapids.
13. Sac and Fox Trail
SCENIC RIVERSIDE PATH
The Sac and Fox Trail is one of Cedar Rapids' popular outdoor recreation paths that follows scenic natural corridors. The trail offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation along the Cedar River. It connects various parts of the city while providing a peaceful escape into nature for outdoor enthusiasts.
14. Hoover Nature Trail
HISTORIC RAIL TRAIL
The Hoover Nature Trail is a converted rail-trail that offers miles of recreational opportunities for Cedar Rapids residents and visitors. The trail passes through varied landscapes including woodland, prairie, and urban settings. It provides an excellent route for walking, running, and cycling while connecting communities in the Cedar Rapids area.
15. Cedar Rapids Public Library
MODERN COMMUNITY RESOURCE
The Cedar Rapids Public Library is a state-of-the-art facility located in the downtown district near the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art. The library offers extensive collections, digital resources, and community programming for visitors of all ages. Its modern architecture and innovative services make it a cultural centerpiece of the Cedar Rapids community.