Couples Weekend

Iowa's Cultural Corridor, Cedar Rapids, is full of world-class arts, culture, seasonal festivals (spring, summer, fall) an ever-growing shopping scene, fabulous restaurants, award-winning wineries and breweries and endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Don't know where to start? Below are just a few suggestions!

Friday

Accommodations for All - If you have a favorite brand or are seeking out a place close to your activities, view all of our area hotels here.

Take In A Show - See what’s on stage at the Paramount Theatre, located in the heart of downtown. The interior of this grand theatre has been meticulously restored and will take your breath away. Just a few blocks away the McGrath Amphitheatre on the bank of the Cedar River has shows booked all summer, and the Alliant Energy PowerHouse arena never fails to provide a great night out. Looking for a more intimate setting? Check out C.R.'s theatre and live music scenes.

Saturday

Delicious Bite to Eat

Kick off the day with a relaxed breakfast at Pub 217 or Parlor City Pub & Eatery.

Unique Heritage

After fueling up, explore some of Cedar Rapids’ premier museums. Just across the bridge from Parlor City is the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library. You’ll discover an impressive collection of Czech and Slovak artifacts as well as engaging exhibitions. Explore Cedar Rapids’ unique history and our historical connection to Czech and Slovak heritage. You can easily spend an hour or so wandering through the galleries.

World-Renowned Art

Next head back across the bridge to visit the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art where you can continue your immersion in the arts. You’ll find the world’s largest collection of work by famed American Gothic artist and Cedar Rapids’ native Grant Wood. You’ll also discover diverse exhibits—like ancient Roman art and antiquities—as well as works by modern American artists throughout the museum’s many galleries.

Variety of Tastes

By now you’re likely thinking about lunch. There’s no better place to stop than the NewBo City Market. Located in the heart of the New Bohemian neighborhood, you’ll be spoiled for choice by all the vendors offering hot, fresh and ready-to-eat culinary delights. From Mexican, Asian to wood-fired pizza and classic deli sandwiches, the market is like no other you’ve ever experienced. Check their schedule of events and live entertainment. The big lawn is the perfect gathering place as the weather warms up including Rock the Block every Friday evening.

Rich Iowa History

After lunch, make time for a stop at Brucemore, a National Historic Trust Site located just a few miles east of downtown. It is a true Eastern Iowa treasure that showcases a rich history about Cedar Rapids’ residents and our city as a whole. Brucemore truly offers a Downton Abbey flavor . . . but on this side of the pond. Make sure to not only tour the mansion, but to also wander around the gardens of the full 26-acre property.

Fun Sporting Events

Our beloved Cedar Rapids Kernels baseball team is another can’t-miss sporting event opportunity. Their season begins in April and runs through the summer months, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy warm evenings at the ballpark.

Local Brews

The Cedar Rapids area has EIGHT local breweries! View our breweries blog, complete with a map, to select a new place to discover.

Sunday

Brunch

Before you head out of town, enjoy a delicious brunch at LP Street Food which offers fun, not-too-fancy food and a great patio! During the summer months, we recommend exploring LP's Scoop Coop for a frozen boozy treat!