24 Things To Do in Cedar Rapids This Weekend for Adults
Published May 6, 2025
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Cedar Rapids is brimming with personality that is evident and sensed wherever you are in the region.
The city was constructed around the stunning Cedar River, and this led to a notably catastrophic flood in 2008 that flooded more than 1000 city blocks and prompted thousands to flee.
This provided the city with an opportunity to rebuild more resiliently, and they've put resources into fresh barriers and significantly improved safeguards for what lies ahead.
Discover 24 things to do in Cedar Rapids this weekend for adults!
1. Museum of Art
This museum is a lovely museum to explore during your journey here.
Among the collections within the permanent exhibits of the museum is a set of artworks by an artist, Grant Wood.
He is primarily recognized for American Gothic art and hails from a locality near Cedar Rapids.
Also, apart from the various Grant Wood artworks, there are additional pieces in the museum that illustrate life inside the Midwest.
You will likewise encounter displays regarding Roman art, color theory, and works of large scale and small scale.
Additionally, the lobby features vibrant pillars and abundant foliage.
The museum remains open for free during the summertime and is certainly worth visiting.
2. National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library
The City of Cedar Rapids boasts a vibrant Czech heritage.
Numerous immigrants came into the region during the 1850s to be employed in nearby packing facilities, so numerous present residents here are descendants of those sets.
This museum offers a fantastic opportunity to discover more regarding the past of Slovak and Czech individuals and their existence in the United States.
It features a section showcasing various types of Slovak and Czech historical artifacts, including apparel, playthings, quilts, prints, and additional items.
The museum's largest area narrates Sovi Czechoslovakia's tale and the later communist government that spanned 41 complete years.
It goes on to describe how it concluded and what resembled the experience of Czech and Slovak immigrants relocating to America.
Indeed, this is an excellently designed museum, and you are guaranteed to gain plenty of knowledge, regardless of whether you are well acquainted with the history of Czech or not.
Also, there is a library together with a charming gift shop featuring Czech delicacies and additional products.
So, if you're interested in history, this is among Cedar Rapids's top activities to enjoy.
3. Paramount Theatre
Considered by numerous people to be the crown entertainment jewel in Cedar Rapids, the Paramount Theatre, with a capacity of 1,700 seats, stands as one of Midwest's most sophisticated and grand performance spaces.
It is among just 300 theater palaces remaining in the USA and was constructed in the 1920s.
The theatre frequently organizes theatrical shows and concerts and also hosts Orchestra Iowa.
It was even included in the National Register and is the most magnificent location in Cedar Rapids.
4. New Bo City Market
You should ensure you check out this market when you're in Cedar Rapids.
It's a nonprofit organization that supports small companies to experiment with ideas and expand.
There’s a variety of stores and food here, along with numerous regular market activities during the week.
The market also runs a facility for zero waste and is dedicated to sustainability.
It gathers rainwater to irrigate the garden, charges electric vehicles, and has more additional features.
A lovely dining spot in the market is The FullBowl, which offers excellent homemade vegetarian bowls brimming with flavor.
Their Chana Masala is really tasty and kinda prepared in an Indian way - chickpeas, zesty mint sauce, rice, and additional items.
Then, for those who enjoy ice cream, Luna Gelato & Ice Cream remains really great.
The lovely ice cream they serve is one-of-a-kind and utterly smooth.
You will also adore the fudge from Mackinac Island and their cheesecake with blueberries.
Then, if you crave sweets, KC Cakes is an excellent stand to check out.
They bake small cakes and their strawberry ripple cheesecake is fantabulous.
5. Grant Wood Trail
This trail used to be a railway route but is currently a pathway with several parts.
A good place for strolling here is Marion beside Waldos Rock Park (an attractive park featuring a massive boulder from the glacier).
This park links to Grant Wood, which is spacious and surfaced in this segment.
Though the trail lacks shade, it offers pleasant vistas of the undulating agricultural land that encircles it.
Even, the trail path is constantly being enhanced and expanded, and it remains open for visits without cost.
6. McGrath Amphitheatre
Situated on Cedar River's western shore and accessible by foot to the stores and attractions of Cedar Rapids Downtown, this amphitheater is a top destination in the city.
Launched in 2014, this outdoor facility can accommodate up to 6000 individuals contingent on the occasion, and it is intended to serve local community-driven events and major music festivals.
So, make sure you don't overlook the opportunity to see a live show here, the most beautiful outdoor entertainment area in Rapids.
7. Almost Famous
Make sure to visit this popcorn spot as well while you're in Cedar Rapids.
It’s a retail space opposite the market and its 'Really Famous' blend of savory, sweet, and spicy popcorn is the finest you will ever experience.
You can also attend its outdoor concert, trivia night, or any other of its events, as there’s constantly something happening here.
Indeed, this is an amazing community assembly area situated in the New Bohemia neighborhood's center.
So, make sure to include it in your adventure in Cedar Rapids.
8. Pleasant Creek Recreation Area
This place is ideal if you seek a bit of time at the lake.
It features a beach section and chances for boating, paddling, fishing, hiking, and camping.
Hikers can walk the full loop around the stunning lake.
Also, there exists a significantly shorter path, Pleasant Ridge Trail, guiding you along a thickly forested route and featuring the pond's perspectives.
You can even swim in the beach zone and undertake your own paddleboard.
The park can be visited at no cost and offers plenty of fun.
9. Old MacDonalds Farm
This farm situated in Bever Park, Cedar Rapids, is a no-cost petting zoo that has a history of amusing local Iowans and visitors of all age groups for more than a century.
It houses various farm animals, including cows, sheep, goats, pigs, and hens, which guests are allowed to feed and touch.
Once known as Bever Park's Zoo, this cherished location in Cedar Rapids is certain to please both children and adults, establishing it as one of Cedar Rapids's top free sights.
10. Taco Gato
To enjoy entertaining fusion cuisine and unique decor, you should visit Taco Gato.
The lively tequila and taco restaurant serves excellent margaritas and also provides burritos, plates, quesadillas, enchiladas, and other additional options.
You will surely appreciate their super distinctive enchilada ramen, and you can even try their two tacos - one prepared using sweet potatoes and another with mushrooms.
Also, the restaurant's interior is incredibly adorable and features numerous playful cat figures, which references its name, gato (the Spanish term for cat).
Taco Gato is indeed an excellent place for meals and drinks with pals.
11. Lowe Sculpture Park
This park, located in Marion, offers a diverse array of sculptures, together with an open-air amphitheater and lovely gardens.
You will truly appreciate the farmer and bison statues here created by Aaron Alderman and crafted from elegantly spiraled copper.
Also, a brief concrete walkway exists here, creating an excellent location for walking or jogging.
Additionally, make certain to look for any gatherings or outdoor performances taking place in the park.
12. Brucemore Estate
This estate, located in Cedar Rapids heart, is a truly picturesque and historical 26-acre property constructed from 1884 to 1886 for the spouse of industrialist TM Sinclair, Caroline Sinclair.
3 families have made their imprint on this landmark of Cedar Rapids, which showcases numerous well-maintained gardens, a flawlessly maintained Queen Anne-type principal residence, and a densely wooded forest.
Being a significant Iowa cultural and historical site, the property is recognized on the Historic Places National Register and stands as the only Iowa National TrustHistoric Site, making it very worthwhile to visit.
13. Lion Bridge
This brewing is a legendary community brewery located in Czech Village that brews its beers just in limited quantities.
A single distinct choice they offer is the lovely Crushberry Sour, which honors Cap’n Crunch Berry is crafted locally and contains flavors of berry and blueberry.
Then, alongside their beers, Lion Bridge offers fries, burgers, and additional items.
You will also like their potato and cheddar pierogies along with their caprese burrata cheese.
14. WickiupHill Learning Center
An excellent spot for both learning and hiking in Cedar Rapids is Wickiup Hill.
It can be visited for free and safeguards both marshes and grasslands.
Also, there is a vast indoor exhibition space in the park providing details about the area's geology and history, an outdoor children's play zone, a bird observation spot, and other additional features.
This park is very excellent for learning and is also delightful for hiking, cycling, and camping.
You will enjoy hiking a circuit around this park and witnessing various kinds of terrains and infinite vibrant wildflowers.
Indeed, this place is excellent for families and anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors.
15. LP Streets Food
This draws influence from American cuisine offered from food vans, carts, service windows, and additional options throughout the nation.
They also seek to honor the working class of America by recognizing their decor, places of worship, storage buildings, and scrap yards.
The outcome is a diverse decor brimming with fascinating items to observe.
You will particularly like their pineapple vegetarian skewers, which are packed with flavor and garnished with fresh herbs, cashew dukkah, and chili soy.
Also, their cheese sandwich prepared with brie and raspberry jam jalapeno bread is equally amazing.
The eatery even offers an entire selection of alcoholic ice cream administered from their window outside, and they also offer seating both inside and outside.
Indeed, it's an enjoyable restaurant that you'll wish to return to again.
16. Pinicon Ridge
This is an excellent location for hiking and camping close to Cedar Rapids.
It is a park spanning 966 acres, and featuring picturesque hills and access to forested regions and Wapsipinicon River.
You will find pleasure in trekking the Woodpecker HillTrail here, which traverses back and ahead through the woods and a few prairie open areas.
You can also observe a tiny waterfall, appreciate numerous vibrant wildflowers, and climb the high observation tower, which is so much fun.
The tower provides an excellent method to view the region from an elevated position.
Also, if there's enough time, take a stroll across Mary Lundby's Bridge, which spans the lovely Wapsipinicon River.
This bridge links the campsite and the park's other side.
There is additionally a signage to discover about the stunning river and the person Mary Lundby had been (an elected Iowa senate oacial).
17. Hip-Stir
To enjoy an alternative eclectic menu featuring decor that alludes to steampunk, you should stop by Hip-Stir.
Its inside includes booths in enormous barrels, an abundance of colorful stained glass pendant lights, ceiling doors, and retro-style furnishings.
Their menu includes noodle bowls, burgers, and salads, and the majority of their meals feature a diverse twist.
You will also adore their cheesy baked starter, which is lavish and accompanied by tasty cheese, toasted bread, and mushrooms.
18. Indian Creek Center
This is among the finest spots to explore in Cedar Rapids, surrounded by nature right in the vicinity.
The center is deeply dedicated to environmental sustainability - for instance, solar panels generate all of the power they consume.
Also, the center offers extensive hiking trails, which are free to access, and you'll also be able to explore different ecosystems in the region such as wetlands, grasslands, and woodland.
Additionally, their indoor facility features educational displays and a few creatures you can observe like turtles and snakes.
There is even a greenhouse, excellent educational spaces for children, and a store offering local products.
So, whether you're looking to gain knowledge about nature or hike, this stands as a fantastic Cedar Rapids spot to explore.
19. Cedar Ridge
If you appreciate whiskey or wine, it's worth taking a trip to this beautiful distillery.
The distillery's charming estate is enveloped by lush, undulating vineyards.
While here, you can savor an assortment of drinks, and they also offer a complete food selection.
They are especially renowned for their brunch on Sundays.
Without a doubt, regardless of whether you stop by for a dining experience, a distillery visit, or a drink, Cedar Ridge is a beautiful location to include in your travel plan of Cedar Rapids.
20. Palisades Kepler
Defined by steep, rocky cliffs, this park is Cedar Rapids's most stunning location for hiking.
It's also an excellent spot for hiking, camping, and fishing.
The park hosts mounds of Native American Indians, constructions created by the Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) along with several hiking paths miles.
You will really have a great time here trekking the loop that merged Cedar Cliff's path with Cool Hollow's path and Woodland trail.
Even, the most picturesque section of Cedar Cliff's trail loop runs alongside the river.
You'll pass by various perspectives of the hills and Cedar River, including a shoreline area adjacent to the lovely water.
It is particularly fascinating to observe a dam's remains. Even, there exist stony islets and downed timber encircling it.
However, make sure to avoid swimming or entering a boat too near the dam, deaths have happened there previously.
Then, another lovely feature of the path is a charming wooden bridge situated in the woods along the CoolHollow Trail.
In general, this stands as a remarkable park that certainly deserves a spot on your travel plan in Cedar Rapids.
Don't forget to take a brief pause to appreciate the America Gothic Barn, a mural located near the park's entrance.
21. Lacayo
This is a lively eatery that takes cues from the Latin United States, Portugal, and Spain.
The eatery's decoration is vibrant and takes inspiration from Latin America's essence in a sophisticated manner.
They offer a wide-ranging cocktail selection and an assortment of main dishes, tacos, sandwiches, and additional items.
You will also enjoy their vegetarian pepita tacos that are created with delicious fried potatoes.
22. Mt. Trashmore
Ascending to Mt. Trashmore summit is necessary to experience during your trip to Cedar Rapids.
Mt. Trashmore Park offers the finest view in the area and is situated at nearly 950 feet elevation from sea level.
However, the narrative surrounding Mt. Trashmore is a component of what renders it so distinctive.
It is an old landfill that contains 6 million quantities of waste and accepted refuse from 1965 until 2006.
Unfortunately, in the year 2008, a catastrophic flood inundated the city.
Because of that, Mount Trashmore closed but later reopened and included an additional storm debris of 30 feet on the hill summit.
However, it closed once more in 2012, but the idea came to change it to a park that offers a lovely view.
So, currently, it’s a cherished park that provides the county's finest view.
The hike to Mt. Trashmore summit is slightly more than half a mile.
You're free to select from a broad, gravel path, or a narrower track that contributes a little extra mileage.
Also, there is a downhill path exclusive for cycles.
Note that no matter which path you choose, the ascent is steady.
On your ascent on the road, you'll find various informative signs that provide knowledge regarding the establishment of the park and additional conservation initiatives, like a composting plant close by.
The summit even provides a breathtaking perspective of Cedar Rapids downtown and the stream.
Remember to check in upon your arrival and always verify the hours in advance because they fluctuate daily.
Also, if you're planning to scale Mt. Trashmore numerous times, you will earn awards.
There’s a contest where you will gain different rewards based on how many climbs you complete.
You can grab t-shirts, local savings, and additional items.
23. Black Sheep’s Social Club
This historic structure used to be a spice and grain storage facility constructed in 1914.
Rather than brick, it was constructed with cobblestone pavement stones, which enabled the structure to truly endure.
Then, during the 2008 flood, the structure experienced water of 8 feet.
Nonetheless, it has now been wonderfully updated with a zinc rod, tiles Boors, and brass Boor timepiece.
You will really love their vast array of buffalo cauliBower, moscow mule flavors, and penne vodka.
They also provide nuggets coated with Cap & Crunch that are produced locally.
Indeed, this is an excellent place for an enjoyable evening out or a gathering of friends.
24. African American Museumof Iowa
This is another museum in Cedar Rapids that is definitely worth a visit.
It's the sole museum in the state devoted to maintaining African American heritage and traditions.
Even, it’s recently refurbished (starting in 2024) following an extended shutdown.
The museum narrates the story of Iowa African Americans, starting from the slavery era and continuing through the Civil Rights Movement and segregation regulations in Iowa, to the present day.
Iowa was surprisingly somewhat of a pioneer in the movement of Civil Rights and broadened equality prior to its national adoption.
It was likewise among the first to give men of African-American voting rights, though African Americans continued to encounter numerous inequalities.
The single narrative the museum conveys is about the time Edna Grian organized a protest in Des Moines's Katz Drug Shop after they denied ice cream to her service at the dining counter.
She triumphed in a legal case concerning the incident but received merely $1 as a reward.
Then, the museum additionally features temporary traveling displays and an exhibit that narrates the museum's history and its collections throughout the years.
Conclusion
I trust this guide will assist you in organizing an unforgettable trip to the lovely Cedar Rapids.
The city boasts a rich culture, beautiful nature, and incredible cuisine, and I believe it’s an amazing part of Midwest.
So, ensure you come to Cedar Rapids during your upcoming Iowa trip.
