Going Solo in Cedar Rapids

Sometimes a getaway for one is just what you need!

Pack your bags and buckle up because Cedar Rapids is a real treat, no matter how big (or small) your travel group!

Where to Stay:

Enjoy the relaxation, comfort and accommodations at any of Cedar Rapids’ full-service hotels.

Downtown: The DoubleTree by Hilton is conveniently located in downtown Cedar Rapids with a roof-top bar (350 First) serving up some of the best city views.
Southside: Reward yourself with a relaxing stay at is Iowa’s only 4-diamond rated and full-service teaching hotel, The Hotel at Kirkwood.
Northside: Find an opening and inviting stay at The Hilton Garden Inn where you can start the day with cooked-to-order breakfast and end the day with a hand-crafted cocktail.

Or, check out the full gamut of hotel/motel options in and around Cedar Rapids

Hit the Town:

When you are ready to head out for the day, take yourself on a mini museum tour. Cedar Rapids has an impressive line-up of cultural institutions that will help you immerse yourself in the rich fabric that shaped this community. Check out the collection at the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art (free all summer!) and the historic studio where local artistic, Grant Wood, painted the famous American Gothic. Dive into the history of the area at The History Center and Iowa Masonic Library & Museum. Learn about the local connections to our nation’s wars at Veterans Memorial Building. Wander the gardens at Brucemore and visit the Smithsonian-affiliate National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library. The best part of touring museums solo is that you can go at your own pace!

Retail Therapy:

Fill the afternoon with leisurely shopping through the locally-owned shops and boutiques in New Bohemia, Czech Village and Uptown Marion. Don’t miss a pop-up vintage event, library book sale, or farmers market when you check the Cedar Rapids Tourism event calendar. And the thrifting & upcycling

Treat Yourself:

Of course, you’ll want to make time to treat yourself… literally. The afternoon may call for finding some ice cream from Almost Famous, The Kool Moo, LP Scoop Coop or Luna Gelato. Once evening rolls around, find a restaurant with a patio to enjoy dinner al fresco, such as The Map Room, Midtown Station, or La Cantina Bar & Grill. The list of spots with outdoor dining grows each season no matter what type of food you are hungry for, explore them all. Or perhaps you want to belly right up to the bar to watch the chefs at work at Cobble Hill, a truly unique dining experience.