Cedar Rapids: The Perfect Combination of History & Hipster

Emily Jackson

Jul 21, 20202 min read

Updated: Jul 24, 2020

I grew up in Cedar Rapids and it has changed so much since then. The flood of 2008 wiped out the majority of downtown and surrounding areas, forcing the city to rebuild. While it was devastating for many, the community came together and came out even stronger. I remember being able to swim in the street of my neighborhood and spending hours putting up sandbags to keep businesses from complete destruction.

It took innovative solutions to rebuild. For example, the ENTIRE Czech and Slovak Museum was moved 480 feet away from the river and onto an elevated surface after it was filled with 8 feet of water. Since then, the areas of New Bohemia and the Czech Village have flourished.

The Newbo and Czech Village neighborhoods are filled with things to do, food to indulge in, and interesting people to meet. My advice, take advantage of the bike/scooter share program and explore that way! Honestly, I haven't eaten at a bad restaurant in the area so go for whatever you think sounds good. The Newbo City Market is a good place to try a variety of foods, as its like an indoor farmers market with different vendors. I would highly recommend Cafe Saint Pio and their lavender vanilla lemonade to refresh after an intense scooter ride.

Brucemore Mansion

So much history. Go for a tour or just walk the ground yourself.

Marion, IA

Located just Northeast of CR, this small town has so much to offer. You can't go wrong with Zoey's Pizzeria (GET A ZOOKIE - delicious cookie skillet that will change your life), Naso's, Villa's Patio, or Zio Johno's. These restaurants have been around forever and they know what they are doing. I tried the West End Diner on my most recent trip and its SO GOOD for breakfast. And super affordable. It even has cute micro-shops right by the outdoor seating. I've got my eye on the Gold Finch and the new 50's Maid-rite diner coming soon!!

Downtown Cedar Rapids

Again, so many delicious places to eat. To name a few: Grin N Goose (get the mozzarella sticks. In true CR fashion, they are breaded in Captain Crunch), Quarter Barrel Arcade and Brewery, Popoli's, Cobble Hill, Riley's Cafe, Chrome Horse Saloon (Newbo area biker bar with good brunch and live music at night), White Star Ale House, and The Flying Weenie. Just to name a few. So grab some food, walk around, see a show, or go to the art museum.

Get Outside

With the Cedar River running through, there are many great parks and trails to check out in and around the city. Below are my top 10! You can't go wrong with any of them.