Cedar Rapids
Local stories, insights, and conversations from Cedar Rapids in Cedar Rapids, Iowa
About Cedar Rapids
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Cedar Rapids, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
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Discover Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids is Iowa's second-largest city and offers a rich tapestry of cultural attractions, outdoor recreation, and vibrant districts. Known as the City of Five Seasons, Cedar Rapids features distinctive neighborhoods like Czech Village and NewBo, world-class museums, beautiful parks, and a thriving arts scene. This comprehensive guide highlights the best attractions, hidden gems, and local favorites throughout Cedar Rapids, providing visitors and residents alike with an authentic perspective on what makes our city special. From historic sites and cultural landmarks to family-friendly destinations and natural areas, discover the diverse experiences that Cedar Rapids has to offer.
Cedar Rapids Episodes
NewBo District Revival: The Art of Community Building
Josh explores the revitalization of the NewBo district with local business owners and community leaders.
Czech Village Heritage: Preserving Culture in Cedar Rapids
A deep dive into the Czech heritage of Cedar Rapids and how it shapes the community today.
Kingston Village: From Flood Recovery to Urban Hotspot
Josh talks with developers and residents about Kingston Village's transformation after the 2008 flood.
Hiawatha Growth: Small Town Feel with Big Opportunities
Exploring the rapid growth and community spirit of Hiawatha with local officials and business owners.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cedar Rapids
What are the top attractions to visit in Cedar Rapids, Iowa?
Cedar Rapids offers many outstanding attractions including the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, Indian Creek Nature Center, NewBo City Market, Czech Village, African American Museum of Iowa, and Brucemore mansion. The city also features beautiful outdoor spaces like Ellis Park and Wickiup Hill Learning Center.
What free things can visitors do in Cedar Rapids?
Cedar Rapids has several free attractions including exploring Czech Village and the NewBo District, viewing the Grant Wood Window at Veterans Memorial Building, browsing NewBo City Market, hiking trails at Indian Creek Nature Center, and visiting Wickiup Hill Learning Center with its interpretive trails and Native American mounds.
What are the best cultural districts to visit in Cedar Rapids?
The most vibrant cultural districts in Cedar Rapids are Czech Village and the NewBo (New Bohemia) District. These adjacent areas feature unique shops, restaurants, museums, and cultural attractions that showcase the city's Czech heritage and creative spirit. Kingston Village across the Cedar River is also an up-and-coming neighborhood worth exploring.
What museums can I visit in Cedar Rapids?
Cedar Rapids has several excellent museums including the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, Cedar Rapids Museum of Art (featuring the world's largest collection of Grant Wood artwork), African American Museum of Iowa, Iowa Masonic Library & Museums, and the Grant Wood Studio & Visitor Center where the famous artist created 'American Gothic.'
What outdoor activities are available in Cedar Rapids?
Cedar Rapids offers numerous outdoor activities including hiking trails at Indian Creek Nature Center and Wickiup Hill, biking on the Cedar Valley Nature Trail, fishing and boating on the Cedar River, golfing at several public courses, and enjoying the city's many parks like Ellis Park, Noelridge Park, and Cherry Hill Park.
Local Cedar Rapids Resources
Cedar Rapids Tourism
Official tourism information for Cedar Rapids, Iowa featuring events, attractions, and visitor guides.
Travel Iowa - Cedar Rapids
Comprehensive guide to Cedar Rapids attractions, events, and travel information from Iowa's official tourism website.
Cedar Rapids Parks & Recreation
Information about Cedar Rapids' parks, trails, recreational facilities, and outdoor activities.
Cedar Rapids Economic Alliance
Resources for business development and economic growth in Cedar Rapids.
Cedar Rapids Community School District
Information about public education in Cedar Rapids.
Some links may be sponsored. The Tupy Show is committed to providing valuable local resources while maintaining transparency about our partnerships.
Top Attractions in Cedar Rapids
Discover the best places to visit and things to do in Cedar Rapids
Czech Village & NewBo District
Cedar Rapids' vibrant cultural hub where past and present come to life. This district features unique shops, restaurants, and museums that showcase th...
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National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
A world-class museum that preserves and interprets Czech and Slovak history and culture. The museum features permanent and temporary exhibits about im...
Cedar Rapids Museum of Art
Home to the world's largest collection of works by Grant Wood, including his famous 'American Gothic.' The museum houses over 2,000 years of art in pe...
NewBo City Market
A vibrant indoor market with approximately 30 unique local retailers and restaurants, many of which are aspiring start-ups and small businesses. The m...
Indian Creek Nature Center
Located along the Cedar River, this expansive natural environment offers hiking trails, fishing, bird watching, and educational programming. The 'Amaz...
Wickiup Hill Learning Center
Features hands-on exhibits for kids, educational programming, live animal displays, interpretive trails, and Native American mounds. The Wandering Woo...
Grant Wood Studio & Visitor Center
Tour the studio where famous artist Grant Wood lived and worked, creating many of his iconic works including 'American Gothic.' The converted carriage...
African American Museum of Iowa
The only museum in Iowa dedicated exclusively to African American history. The museum preserves, exhibits, and teaches Iowa's African American heritag...
Brucemore
A 26-acre estate featuring a Queen Anne-style mansion that was home to three prominent Cedar Rapids families. The site offers guided tours of the hist...
Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery
The first licensed distillery in Iowa since Prohibition, offering award-winning wines and internationally recognized spirits. Visitors can enjoy disti...
Exploring Cedar Rapids Attractions
Cedar Rapids offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors and residents alike. From cultural landmarks and museums to outdoor recreation and family-friendly activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The city's rich history, vibrant arts scene, and natural beauty create a unique destination worth exploring. Whether you're interested in history, art, nature, or simply looking for fun things to do, Cedar Rapids has attractions to suit all interests and ages throughout the year.
Join The Conversation About Cedar Rapids
Have a story about Cedar Rapids you'd like to share? Want to suggest a topic for our next episode? We'd love to hear from you!