Whether you’re a local Iowan ready to escape the house or a curious tourist exploring The City of Five Seasons, Cedar Rapids is packed with entertaining experiences waiting for you. Or, maybe you’re planning on visiting in the future.
Whatever the case, here are 10 fun things to do in Cedar Rapids this summer:
1. National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
Step into a world of vibrant colors, rich traditions, and captivating history at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library in Cedar Rapids. Established in 1974, this dynamic cultural center celebrates the spirit and stories of Czech and Slovak people through a series of engaging and beautifully curated exhibits.
Whether you’re exploring a reconstructed Slovak village, marveling at intricate folk costumes, or discovering the stirring saga of immigration through interactive displays, this museum offers a unique cultural journey. Regular events like folk dance performances, traditional cooking classes, and festive celebrations infuse the museum with energy and joy, making it a truly exciting destination.
Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the heritage and heart of the Czech and Slovak communities right here in the heart of Iowa!
2. Brucemore
Brucemore is a stunning, historical mansion nestled in the heart of Cedar Rapids. As a National Trust Historic Site, it features a whopping 21 rooms and is surrounded by 26 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and a natural landscape, including a pond and a children's garden. Touring Brucemore offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyles of the early 20th-century industrialists and the families that called this mansion home.
The estate also hosts a variety of cultural events, including outdoor concerts, theater productions, and seasonal celebrations. Specialty tours, including night tours and behind-the-scenes glimpses, offer visitors a deeper understanding of the estate’s history and significance.
3. Cedar Rapids Museum of Art
The Cedar Rapids Museum of Art is a must-visit for art lovers, housing the world’s largest collection of works by Grant Wood, famed for his painting "American Gothic." Beyond Wood’s paintings, the museum features over 7,200 works focusing on 20th-century American art, including significant pieces by Marvin Cone and others.
Regularly changing exhibitions ensure that every visit offers something new, and educational programs and events make art accessible to audiences of all ages. Check out their summer exhibits!
4. NewBo City Market
Switching gears to the vibrant New Bohemia District, NewBo City Market is the hub of Cedar Rapids’ culinary and craft scene. This bustling market offers locals and tourists alike a taste of regional cuisine, artisanal products, and unique crafts.
The market also serves as a community gathering space where people come together for live music events, cooking classes, and seasonal activities, making it a lively spot to experience the local flavor and creativity of Cedar Rapids. Stop by for some amazing summer treats!
5. Paramount Theatre
The Paramount Theatre is an architectural gem and cultural beacon in downtown Cedar Rapids. Restored after severe flooding in 2008, this historic venue hosts a plethora of performances ranging from touring Broadway musicals to symphony orchestra concerts and hilarious stand-up comedy shows.
Its glamorous interior and state-of-the-art acoustics make every event a special experience, securing its place as a premier destination for performing arts in the city.
6. Indian Creek Nature Center
The Indian Creek Nature Center offers a perfect escape into nature with its diverse habitats including prairies, forests, and wetlands spread over 200 acres. The center is dedicated to environmental education, providing numerous programs that encourage sustainable living and conservation practices. The amazing "Amazing Space" facility is LEED certified and operates on renewable energy, cementing the center's commitment to sustainability.
7. Cedar Rapids Public Library
Originally opened in 1897, The Cedar Rapids Public Library goes beyond being just a place to check out books. It is a vibrant community hub where knowledge, culture, and technology meet. After the Iowa Flood of 2008, the library was wiped out. It underwent a massive modern renovation in 2013 that transformed the entire look and feel of the place.
The library features a vast collection of resources, state-of-the-art facilities, and a stunning rooftop garden that offers panoramic views of the city. With a calendar full of events, from author talks to educational workshops and children's programs, the library is a center of lifelong learning and community engagement.
8. Hawkeye Downs Speedway
For those who crave high-speed action, the Hawkeye Downs Speedway provides thrilling live auto racing events. Located on the south side of Cedar Rapids, the speedway features a variety of racing series that cater to different automotive tastes, from stock cars to motorcycles and even go-karts.
Apart from racing, the venue also hosts large-scale events such as trade shows, flea markets, and concerts, making it a versatile entertainment spot in Cedar Rapids.
9. McGrath Amphitheatre
Situated along the banks of the Cedar River, the McGrath Amphitheatre is an open-air venue that brings the community together for a wide array of events. From summer concerts featuring national acts to local music festivals and community gatherings, the amphitheater is a prime location for outdoor entertainment in Cedar Rapids.
Its grassy slopes provide ample space for seating, making it an ideal spot for families and groups of friends to enjoy a show under the stars. Catching an event at the McGrath Amphitheatre should be on everyone’s summer bucket list.
10. Home Improvement
If you’ve been inspired by the Cedar Rapids home designs, now is the perfect time to upgrade your living space for summer festivities. From porches to patios to beautiful exteriors, Design & Build Remodelers has all the tools to turn your home vision into a reality.
Contact us now and we’ll give your Cedar Rapids home the makeover it deserves.
Have a great summer at Cedar Rapids!
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