CR Weekend Getaway

Travel writer Kaitlyn Fortier and her husband Spencer Ford take us along on their weekend getaway in Cedar Rapids.

If you’re looking for an adventurous weekend, spend it in Cedar Rapids! As a New Yorker, I can’t wait to share our favorite spots in this inclusive city full of incredibly kind people!

CZECH VILLAGE was a really fun way to learn about my Nana’s Czech culture and history. National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library was at the top of our list with really well done exhibits and engaging displays. Near the museum, Lion Bridge Brewing Company is home to tasty shareables and innovative flavored brews. We shared two flights and tasted everything they had on tap! Our favorite was the “Crushberry.” A kettle sour that smelled exactly like the locally-made Cap’n Crunch’s Crunch Berry cereal. Across the river, NewBo City Market showcases unique local food, retail start-ups, farmers markets and various community events.

The OUTDOOR BEAUTY is everywhere. We hiked the Cedar Cliff Trail at Palisades-Kepler State Park which gave a bit of elevation gain and beautiful views of the Cedar River. Take time to see Indian Creek Nature Center’s Amazing Space (one of the most environmentally sustainable buildings in the country), over 5 miles of well groomed trails, interactive exhibits (our favorite was the demonstration hive), an outdoor classroom and playscape. Explore Mount Trashmore, a former landfill turned into a recreation site! It might not be a true mountain, but it sure does boast one of the best views of the city at an elevation of 948 feet. Grab your mountain bike and hit the trails at Beverly Park to enjoy our favorite discovery and bike trail of the trip!

Finally, spend SUNDAY MORNING at Cedar Ridge Distillery. Nothing beats a delicious brunch with beautiful views and amazing local cocktails. Or catch a show at Cedar Rapids’ 1920’s Paramount Theatre. Beautiful inside and out with a great line up. We saw the International Juggler’s Association Annual Festival and it was one of the best things we did all weekend.

Read more about Kaitlyn and Spencer’s full itinerary and adventures at wanderwithkt.com.

Written by Kaitlyn Fortier, Photos by Spencer Ford

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