Two Days in Cedar Rapids, IA

Plan your getaway to Cedar Rapids with this two day itinerary.

Day 1

Lunch & Shopping

Kick off your visit with a trip to Cedar Rapids’ best gathering place, NewBo City Market. This small business incubator is filled with some of the most diverse food offerings in the city, along with some great retail shops.

Spend the afternoon exploring the shops, restaurants and museums within the Czech Village New Bohemia Main Street District. From vintage records to skateboards, plant shops to clothing boutiques, there is a lot to explore. We recommend a stop at Raygun for some Cedar Rapids themed gear.

Museum Hopping

Museum lovers must visit the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library and and Brucemore, a National Trust Historic Site. Check out the schedule of walking and bicycle tours with The History Center for some great insights into Cedar Rapids history.

Dinner Reservations

Make dinner reservations at Zeppelins, a modern grill providing New American eats, draft brews & cocktails in a low-lit brick interior.

Stop By A Local Brewery

Enjoy an evening beer at Lion Bridge Brewing Company and don’t forget to grab a growler to take home.

Stay Over

Overnight at the brand-new Hilton Garden Inn. Find more options here.

Day 2

Start the Day the Right Way

Overnight at Enjoy a delicious breakfast or brunch at Feedwell Bakery on the northeast side. Or if you’re going downtown, we would suggest Dash Coffee Roasters for a caffeine fix. the brand-new Hilton Garden Inn. Find more options here.

Downtown Arts & Culture

Head to downtown Cedar Rapids and check out the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, housing the largest Grant Wood (think American Gothic) collection in the world! Love public art? Check out our new blog on where to find a few photogenic spots.

Iowa's Best Beef & Pork

Work up an appetite – then try one of the 2021 Iowa’s Best Burger finalists – The Map Room in downtown AND Saucy Focaccia, with two area locations. If pork tenderloins are more your speed, check out The Blind Pig, a finalist in Iowa’s 2020 Best Breaded Tenderloin contest.

Outdoor Fun

Spring in Iowa means the weather is constantly changing, but typically getting warmer each day – dress in layers for the most comfort. In May, Mount Trashmore trails and overlook will reopen for seasonal use. Get the best views of the city from the top! Make sure to check the schedule before you venture out. If you bring your bikes you can hop on the Cedar River Trail nearby.

Golfers can make tee times at three Cedar Rapids municipal courses. Disc golfers – check out our blog for local course information.

Looking for something kid friendly? Consider a short drive to Wickiup Hill in Toddville or Pinicon Ridge Park in Central City. Closer to home, one of the best local playgrounds is at Marion’s Thomas Park.