Fun Things to Do in Cedar Rapids | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Cedar Rapids Travel Guide
Quick overview of Cedar Rapids with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
- Cedar Rapids Travel Videos
- Plan Cedar Rapids Trip
- Things To Do In Cedar Rapids
- Tours And Activities In Cedar Rapids
- Best Time To Visit Cedar Rapids
- Flight Calendar For Cedar Rapids
- Best Areas To Stay In Cedar Rapids
- Hotels Map Of Cedar Rapids
- Transportation To Cedar Rapids
- Nearby Destinantion From Cedar Rapids
Welcome to Cedar Rapids, a vibrant city located in the heart of the United States! Known as the "City of Five Seasons," Cedar Rapids offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and a thriving arts scene. Situated along the banks of the Cedar River, this city is home to numerous parks and trails, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, Cedar Rapids boasts a rich history, with landmarks such as the National Czech & Slovak Museum and Library, showcasing the city's strong ties to its immigrant roots. Whether you're interested in exploring the great outdoors, immersing yourself in art and culture, or simply enjoying the warm hospitality of the Midwest, Cedar Rapids has something for everyone.
Cedar Rapids Travel Videos
We've curated authentic Cedar Rapids videos for inspiration and practical tips. Discover all the amazing places to visit and things to do in Cedar Rapids in 2024. Make your own Itinerary, like a Pro.
Plan Cedar Rapids Trip
Prepare for your Cedar Rapids trip now. Use our trusted partners for great rates and a hassle-free booking experience. Easily book your Hotels now without advance payment and cancel anytime.
Things To Do In Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're interested in exploring the outdoors, immersing yourself in art and culture, or indulging in delicious cuisine, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city.
One of the main attractions in Cedar Rapids is the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art. This museum houses an impressive collection of artwork, including pieces by famous artists such as Grant Wood. Visitors can admire the art, participate in educational programs, or even take part in art classes.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Cedar Rapids offers several parks and trails to explore. Indian Creek Nature Center is a popular destination for hiking and birdwatching, while Seminole Valley Park offers picnic areas and playgrounds for families to enjoy. The Cedar River also provides opportunities for boating and fishing.
If you're a food lover, Cedar Rapids has a thriving culinary scene. The NewBo City Market is a must-visit for food enthusiasts, offering a variety of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal goods. Additionally, the city is home to numerous restaurants serving diverse cuisines, ranging from farm-to-table options to international flavors.
For those interested in history, Cedar Rapids has several historic sites worth exploring. The Brucemore Mansion is a beautiful estate that offers guided tours, allowing visitors to step back in time and learn about the city's rich history. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library is another notable attraction, showcasing the heritage and contributions of Czech and Slovak immigrants to the area.
In addition to these main attractions, Cedar Rapids hosts various festivals and events throughout the year. The Freedom Festival is a celebration of Independence Day, featuring fireworks, parades, and live music.
Tours And Activities In Cedar Rapids
Check out these Experiences around the Cedar Rapids region. Read real reviews and highlights.
Check out Top-Rated Tours and Activities in Iowa (State region of Cedar Rapids).
Best Time To Visit Cedar Rapids
The best time to visit Cedar Rapids is during the summer months of June, July, and August. During this time, the weather is warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring the city's parks and trails. Additionally, summer is also the peak tourist season in Cedar Rapids, so you can expect more events and festivals happening during this time. However, it's important to note that hotel rates may be higher and popular attractions may be more crowded. If you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, spring and fall can also be good times to visit Cedar Rapids. During these seasons, the temperatures are moderate, ranging from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and you can still enjoy outdoor activities while avoiding the peak tourist rush. Winter in Cedar Rapids can be cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 35 degrees Fahrenheit. However, if you enjoy winter sports such as skiing or ice skating, this can be a great time to visit. Overall, the best time to visit Cedar Rapids depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels.
Flight Calendar For Cedar Rapids
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Cedar Rapids.
Best Areas To Stay In Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids, Iowa offers several great areas for accommodation. Here are a few of the best areas to consider:
1. Downtown Cedar Rapids: This area is perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the city. It offers a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Downtown Cedar Rapids is also home to many cultural attractions, such as the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art and the Paramount Theatre. Accommodation options in this area range from modern hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts.
2. NewBo District: Located just south of downtown, the NewBo District is a trendy and up-and-coming neighborhood. It is known for its unique shops, local breweries, and the NewBo City Market, which offers a variety of fresh produce and artisanal goods. The area also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year. Accommodation in the NewBo District includes boutique hotels and stylish vacation rentals.
3. Czech Village: For those interested in history and culture, Czech Village is a must-visit area. It celebrates the city's Czech heritage and is home to charming shops, restaurants, and the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library. The area also hosts the annual Houby Days Festival, which celebrates Czech culture and cuisine. Accommodation options in Czech Village include cozy bed and breakfasts and historic inns.
4. Marion: Located just northeast of Cedar Rapids, Marion is a peaceful and family-friendly area. It offers a variety of parks, trails, and recreational activities, making it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Marion is also home to the historic Uptown Marion district, which features unique shops and restaurants. Accommodation in Marion includes comfortable hotels and vacation rentals.
5. Cedar River: If you prefer a more scenic and nature-oriented accommodation option, consider staying along the Cedar River. There are several parks and green spaces along the river, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and picnicking. Some accommodations in this area include riverside cabins and campgrounds.
Overall, Cedar Rapids offers a diverse range of accommodation options in various areas, catering to different preferences and interests. Whether you prefer a bustling downtown atmosphere or a peaceful riverside retreat, you're sure to find the perfect place to stay in Cedar Rapids.
Hotels Map Of Cedar Rapids
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Cedar Rapids.
Transportation To Cedar Rapids
There are several transportation options to Cedar Rapids:
1. By air: You can fly to The Eastern Iowa Airport (CID), which is located in Cedar Rapids. There are several airlines that operate flights to and from this airport.
2. By car: Cedar Rapids is easily accessible by car. You can drive to the city using major highways such as Interstate 380 or US Route 30.
3. By bus: There are bus services that connect Cedar Rapids to other cities in the region. Greyhound and Jefferson Lines are two popular bus companies that operate in the area.
4. By train: While Cedar Rapids does not have a train station, you can take a train to nearby cities such as Iowa City or Waterloo and then continue your journey to Cedar Rapids by bus or car.
5. By bike or walking: If you are in the vicinity, you can also consider biking or walking to Cedar Rapids, especially if you are coming from a nearby town or neighborhood.
It is recommended to check the availability and schedules of these transportation options before planning your trip to Cedar Rapids.
Nearby Destination From Cedar Rapids
1. Iowa City: Home to the University of Iowa and known for its vibrant arts and culture scene.
2. Marion: A charming small town with a historic downtown area and beautiful parks.
3. Hiawatha: A growing city with a strong sense of community and numerous recreational opportunities.
4. North Liberty: A family-friendly town with excellent schools and a thriving business community.
5. Mount Vernon: A picturesque village with a rich history and a lively arts and music scene.
6. Anamosa: Famous for its state penitentiary and the National Motorcycle Museum.
7. Vinton: A peaceful town with a beautiful courthouse square and a variety of outdoor activities.
8. Tiffin: A rapidly growing community with a small-town feel and easy access to Iowa City.
9. Solon: Known for its excellent schools and beautiful Lake Macbride State Park.
10. Robins: A close-knit community with a strong focus on family and a variety of recreational amenities.