Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids is a city in eastern Iowa. The Cedar Rapids Museum of Art includes many works by native Iowan painter Grant Wood. Brucemore is an estate with acres of gardens and an 1880s mansion, which houses local history displays. Nearby, Bever Park has an ice rink, a pool and farm animals. The National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library offers exhibits on the history and culture of 19th-century immigrants.
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Cedar Rapids Trip Planner

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Top attractions in Cedar Rapids

National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
1. National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
4.8
(196)
Museum
Library
Galleries showcasing the Czech & Slovak experience plus genealogy library, Christmas market & more.
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Very informative and knowledgable staff! Everyone was very welcoming and as we only had a short time to spend there they were able to give suggestions on what to see quickly. Quality exhibits and gift shop with great gift ideas. Worth the stop and perfect location to then walk around an explore more of the Czech Village.
Professionally curated collections including both historical and modern treasures. The museum highlights the Immigrant experience as well as the home country experience. People exploring their heritage will find an abundance of information on Czech and Slovak culture. The volunteers offer valuable insights and personal stories. The gift shop includes authentic pieces for purchase. Additionally, the library has limitless resources and helpful and knowledgeable staff.
The museum represents our history, which should resonate deeply with every Slovak and Czech. It reminds us where we came from, what kind of world we once lived in, and why we should value freedom and democracy. Powerful stories of our ancestors are told here.
Worth the stop. In this era when immigration is pivoting, I am so glad to drop in to this museum; and listen to the VOICES of FREEDOM. This exhibit helps me realize just how grateful I am for the freedom and privileges I have inherited. I live on the backs of those who came before me here in this land, and those who sacrificed for the preservation of our liberties and ideals. Beautifully and artfully done.
This museum contains exhibits and artifacts chronicling the arrival of Czech and Slovak immigrants to the United States. The museum also contains a store and library, which includes books and periodicals for research. The staff are very knowledgeable about this overlooked piece of American history. Highly recommended for history buffs.
As someone who enjoys visiting museums across the US that focus on the cultures and countries from which immigrants came to America, I can confidently say the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library in Cedar Rapids is an absolute gem. Impressive Scale and Infrastructure The size of this facility is truly astounding. This isn't just a small cultural center—it's a comprehensive 50,000 square-foot institution that rivals major museums in much larger cities. The infrastructure is remarkable. Outstanding Exhibits and Experiences The exhibits were superb throughout. Each display thoughtfully tells the story of Czech and Slovak immigration and culture, making it accessible whether you have personal connections to this heritage or are simply curious about American immigration history. A particular highlight was watching the clock tower's on-the-hour display of Czech workmanship—it's a rewarding experience that showcases the artistic traditions and craftsmanship that immigrants brought with them to America. A Source of Pride Having grown up in Northwest Iowa and spent time in Omaha, I've seen how immigrant communities maintain connections to their heritage. The Czechs, both those from the US and from the Czech Republic itself, must be incredibly proud of this museum. It's clear that significant care, resources, and love have gone into creating this institution. Bottom Line This is absolutely a must-visit destination in Iowa. Whether you're interested in immigration history, Czech and Slovak culture, or simply appreciate well-curated museums, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library delivers an exceptional experience that honors both the immigrant journey and the rich cultural traditions that continue to enrich American communities today.
This is an entry fee well worth spent. You could literally spend two days in this place looking at the exhibits.
My husband and I stumbled in here, the displays were so informative and I love learning about another culture. We ended walking around for a couple of hours, the clothes and music were by far my favorite, the ship was also pretty cool. The gift shop seemed crazy high in prices but worth getting a couple of trinkets to commemorate your visit, the ladies working there were so nice!
Brucemore
2. Brucemore
4.7
(504)
Historical place museum
Sights & Landmarks
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Beautiful historic home tour. Ticket prices are very reasonable for such a lovely tour. We saw the Christmas display, but wish to return in summer to see the gardens. Staff was very kind and knowledgeable.
I enjoyed the tour and got impressed by the interior. You can learn about the history of the owners. There is a garden as well. There is also a souvenir shop.
A beautiful historic home in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The house tour was informative, interesting, and even had a few twists! The grounds and gardens are beautiful and open to the public for a stroll, to walk the dog, or wander with children. It must necessarily be a wonderful and g.j gorgeous backdrop f ou r the many community arts events held there. I am looking forward to returning during the holiday season.
Only toured the grounds so can’t speak to the inside of the house. Grounds were beautiful to walk around, some paved paths, but otherwise you can just walk through the gardens and hilltop. Free to see the grounds so worth it for a quick stop. They could use some better signage for some of the buildings. Even if we had time to tour the house, didn’t even know where to get the tickets. One staff member we saw was less than helpful and couldn’t even direct us. Google maps may take you to the “exit” to get in, so look for the one small sign on 1st pointing to actual main entrance.
Very interesting and unique historic property. Only $5 to explore the mansion. The organ alone is worth the admission. The Grant Wood porch is a real gem for artistic types. I only wish the interpretive displays and brochures would explain more of how the families who lived here positively impacted the local community and how their philanthropy was significant to the city/region. Talking to the docents, there is a lot of additional information that could be shared. This additional information is what makes a historic property interesting. This alone dropped it one star. Otherwise, it would be five stars for me.
If you live in Iowa this is a must stop to learn about the families behind the biggest industries in Cedar Rapids. The home is filled with an amazing history and I truly enjoyed the tour.
Worth the price of admission. We had a great tour guide and it was just two of us . Tours are every hour. Gardens and property are nice to walk through as well. Very interesting history. Don't miss the basement
I didn't tour the mansion. But the grounds are beautiful.
The District: Czech Village & New Bohemia
3. The District: Czech Village & New Bohemia
4.5
(3334)
Market
Sights & Landmarks
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One of the hot places to be in the town though there wasn't mich happening on this early evening on a Thursday night at the start of November. Many restaurants as well as the newbo market to dine in or watch an outdoor comcert.
A wonderful place to shop. Sadly after 35 years including the 2008 flood, the owners have sold the building and are retiring. December 7, 2025 will be the last day open. The good news is that several of the vendors are moving to the new Oddmama's Antique Mall 1216 2nd Ave. SE Cedar Rapids. Grand opening November 1. Hope see you there.
Fun and engaging area that includes the check museum. The museum itself was really fun and exceptionally well appointed. The staff there was tremendously welcoming.
Coming from Prague it was interesting to see this area. The new apartments in the district made me think of the new apartment buildings in Karlín. I liked Cedar Rapids on the whole. It is similar to a modern Czech city, with bike paths and buses. Also the murals in this market area were like you'd see in Olomouc or another city in CR.
This was my first visit to the museum. The immigrant house was fascinating. As were the galleries. They had several cases with glass on display. The docent said they have quite a bit more, it was just not currently on display. It would be wonderful to see more. Maybe next time. The docents were very knowledgeable about their subjects and very friendly.
The village is a small area and it's very walkable and you can visit a multitude of interesting shops. Make sure you visit the Czech Museum since I found it worthy. I had very little concept of the struggles in this country and after a visit I came away with tremendous respect upon learning the history and endurance of the Czech people. This museum has an unusable way of transmitting personal struggles. You must visit. Honestly, I am not a fan of museums, but I do recommend this one. I especially enjoyed the film showing how this large museum was moved after a severe flood. Fascinating.
We had an amazing day visiting the Czech Village On Main Street District. Thank you to my son for taking me to see this amazing community. We will be going back on my next visit to the area. The Museum is well worth the time to go and see. Beautiful area amazing people so friendly and welcoming. The Glass shop oh my goodness stop by and say hello, they have glass that glows under the light. Have a blessed day. Merry Christmas to all in Cedar Rapids Iowa
I felt it was hyped to be more than it was. And the main store I wanted to go to wasn't open during our entire trip so that was a bummer. You also couldn't really tell you were there, because nothing was marked as the Czech Village District.
Cedar Rapids Museum of Art
4. Cedar Rapids Museum of Art
4.6
(516)
Art museum
Museums
Over 7,000 works on display with emphasis on 20th-century American art plus classes for all ages.
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Beautiful museum with lots of artwork and history to see and learn about! This museum holds the largest collection of Grant Wood works of art in the world, literally! We saw they were offering free admission for a limited time so we took advantage of that opportunity with having a group of people to take. Well worth the hour drive 🥰
Wonderful museum in Cedar Rapids. I learned a lot about Grant Wood. Worth a visit if you're downtown. I appreciate the local artist exhibitions as well.
Highly recommend visiting! I love and appreciate the free admission during the summer months. They have such beautiful and unique art pieces that will rotate sometimes. It is so fun coming back and seeing what is new. The staff are friendly and helpful in answering any questions you may have. The museum is quiet, clean, and spacious. There are plenty of areas for sitting, including a large sitting and reading room. I also love visiting their gift shop that has a wide variety of items for anyone’s taste or preference, even having a kids section. We parked in front of the museum on the street, which is free on evenings and weekends. Looking forward to my next visit.
We happened to visit on a day that was free. Parts of the building have a mild mildew smell to it, I’m not a fan of that. That aside the seeing art with the kids was fun. It’s two stories and there’s a gift shop. Be prepared to pay well beyond retail value for everything except a soda at the gift shop.
I'll go ahead and give them five stars because it was free the day/time I went, and they don't force you to exit thru the gift shop. Otherwise it's a bit small but since I don't know what they charge even I won't judge them for that. What they did have was generally pretty impressive, the Grant Wood collection was surprisingly beautiful. The Roman section had some great historic items as well. There's as a large focus on local Iowa artists, and a lot of landscape works at the moment at least. Plenty of free parking in the area on weekdays, I saw a garage too but don't know the situation. Staff is friendly and helpful. Definitely worth checking out. Building is old and pretty cool.
Absolutely delightful! Warm and welcoming staff. Quiet and spacious - allowing you to absorb yourself in the transcend environment. You really must go!
Clean, friendly and organized. Good selection of local art, just small in size. Good way to soak up 30 min if needed!
I really enjoyed my first visit to this wonderful museum; my primary purpose was to see their Grant Wood collection. I phoned ahead of time to better understand their holdings as well as their relationship to the Grant Wood studio a few blocks away. I was fortunate enough to speak with Sean, the Executive Director, who went above and beyond to not only answer my basic questions, but also to provide many suggestions as to how to maximize my visit, including his recommendation to ensure that I view their works by Marvin Cone, whom I was not familiar with. I am grateful for Sean's guidance, and am now a new fan of Cone. The museum has a well-rounded curation, and features a variety of types paintings, sculpture, and ceramics, to name a few, as well as a fantastic museum store. I highly recommend a visit.
NewBo City Market
5. NewBo City Market
4.5
(3109)
Market
Shopping
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This market had good food options and some fun shops as well. It wasn't very busy which surprised me during lunch time. However, lots to choose from. We got Pita's and it was very fresh and tasty. There was a lot of seating available on the otherside and this was a perfect place to stop on our 8 hour road trip from Minnesota to St. Louis.
Lots of neat shops!! Witchy shop, CBD shop, lots of good vendors (omg Indian food!!) Coffee djop- pretty awesome!
I'm definitely going to start reading the negative reviews not just the most recent ones! This place is ABSOLUTELY NOTHING like the images. Maybe 3 or 4 booths and same with tables. Mostly junk minus an excellent woodworker and a super sweet jewelry booth. Food looked average. If you are traveling through looking for something cool to do, dont bother with this one!
Cool little market place in the New Bohemian distric. It has a selection of food, coffee, sweets and vendors. Was here in a Saturday, but it wasn't too busy. If you're in Cedar Rapids, stop here and check it out.
Love this place for a drop in drink and/or bite. Usually has clean restrooms and good wifi. Great variety of eats and treats. Oja has the best wraps and cake rolls!! Roasters has the best smoothies!
There's always something new here, whether it be a new vendor, or the temporary vendors. Half sister took the business card of the person selling macarons and I wish I got a photo of it because they were both adorable and absolutely delicious. Can be crowded when they're busy, but it's a must-go for anyone who hasn't been and is looking for a snack or to kill some time walking around
Nice place to grab a bite and depending on weather, you can sit inside or outdoors. They also have trivia indoors for who may like to participate. I went on a wendsday afternoon not sure how often they do it but its a nice touch to eating and hanging with friends while doing trivia. Something to do in Cedar rapids, IA
I came inside for a cookie and fortunately a business baked them. I didn't explore the market, but it's located downtown and I like the industrial look of the building and the location as a whole.
Paramount Theatre
6. Paramount Theatre
4.8
(1485)
Performing arts theater
Concerts & Shows
Palatial venue on the National Register of Historic Places for concerts, ballet, musicals & more.
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I truly enjoyed visiting the Paramount Theatre in Cedar Rapids! It's absolutely stunning. We were the to watch Killer Queen. It was a great time all around!
As most have said this is an absolutely amazingly beautiful theater. It is an old theatre, so the seats are on the small side and being 6'4" the railings are quite low. We sat Row A Loge. Like "I decided against having a beer as I didn't want to plummet to my death" low. Other than that amazing show amazing venue great friendly staff. Highly recommend.
I've been to the paramount a few times, I've sat up front and in the very back up in the balcony, I'm convinced there is no bad seat there. The chairs can be slightly uncomfortable but most stadium seat can get this way. It won't stop me from returning but might be a consideration if you have back issues. The theater is absolutely beautiful and the staff has always been very kind.
The Paramount Theatre is a wonderful venue, with elegant architecture, and superb acoustics. My Wife and I have been to theatrical plays (such as Cats), concerts, like Mandisa and The News Boys, and a comedy presentation with Preacher Lawson. All events have been very enjoyable and we continue to keep a watchful eye out for future events.
We are so fortunate to have this gem of a venue in Cedar Rapids. The property is so beautiful and completely restored after the 2008 flood. This a GREAT Place to take in a show. Our party of four attended The Kenny Wayne Shepherd concert they played a two hour non stop show and came back out for two more songs.
This is a beautiful place to see a show. It is a smaller, more personal venue. From the old ticket booth as the "Will Call", to the chandeliers, to the beautiful ceilings & interior, the venue itself is a show worth seeing. I saw Blue October in covert there, the sound was great as well. I will definitely go to shows here again.
We went to see Swan Lake. The production was phenomenal! However, I'll say that the seating is extraordinarily tight. There is no shoulder room. If you're on the end of a row, be prepared to step into the aisle rather than just standing to let someone out... very VERY tight. I'm less than five feet tall, and it was uncomfortable for me to sit through the entire ballet. If the seating were spaced more comfortably, I would have quickly given five stars.
The Paramount theater is a nice setting for plays, concerts and different kinds of shows. The acoustics are wonderful. The space is large, however it has a cozy feeling to it. There really are not any bad seats. The service people are nice and the refreshments are okay priced. It is a beautifully redone place well worth a visit. Just saw weird Al last night. Still a great place.
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Other notable attractions

Indian Creek Nature Center
Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
Nature preserve with scenic trails & educational events, plus a sustainable building with exhibits.
Grant Wood Studio and Visitor Center
Visitor center
Sights & Landmarks
Cedar Rapids Public Library
Public library
Libraries
Ushers Ferry Historic Village
Local history museum
Sights & Landmarks
Recreated circa-1890–1910 town with 20+ buildings open seasonally for tours & educational programs.
African American Museum Of Iowa
Museum
History Museums
Museum celebrating the heritage of African Americans in Iowa through exhibits, events & workshops.
Bever Park
Park
Zoos & Aquariums
Expansive park with facilities for tennis & softball, plus an ice rink & swimming pool.
CSPS
Arts organization
Concerts & Shows
1890s Richardsonian Romanesque brick building housing a contemporary arts organization.
Lindale Mall
Shopping mall
Shopping
A wide array of shopping options plus chain restaurants, a food court, family activities & Wi-Fi.
McGrath Amphitheatre
Amphitheater
Concerts & Shows
Sprawling outdoor venue offering lawn seating & a lineup of well-known performers, plus events.
Iowa Masonic Library and Museums
Library
Fraternal organization

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Weather in Cedar Rapids

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Monthly temperature highs and lows in Cedar Rapids
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