Attractions - Wedding

Things to Do

We recognize that a number of our guests are traveling from afar and may be looking for other attractions around the Cedar Rapids area. Here's a short list of suggestions, near and far.

Brucemore Mansion

Located just a few blocks from our home is Brucemore Estate, a Queen Anne-style mansion complete with beautiful summer gardens and woodlands. Brucemore is on the National Registry of Historic Places and has been home to a number of rich and prominent families over the past century. Supposedly one of the owners kept monkeys and lions on the property. Old timers tell us you could hear the cats roar across our street. Tours cost $7 and are available Tuesday through Sunday.

Brucemore Mansion

Palisades-Kepler State Park

Just a few miles from Cedar Rapids, Palisades Park is a great place to go for a short, easy hike and picnic. Truthfully, we nearly hosted the wedding in this park. Guests can look out over the Cedar River from the many high bluffs and enjoy spotting the many predatory birds that scan the rivers. The exposed rock is also a great spot to search for fossils. In fact, mammoth fossils have even been found in the area. It's a favorite destination of ours in the fall for a lazy Sunday afternoon or evening.

Palisades Park

National Czech and Slovak Museum

Celebrate Czech heritage in Cedar Rapids with a visit to the National Museum and Library. Recently moved after the 2008 floods, the Museum has once again reopened its doors to the public with exhibits that explore Czech and Slovak identity throughout history.

NCSML

Anamosa

Located about 30 minutes outside Cedar Rapids, the City of Anamosa boasts a couple interesting activities including the National Motorcycle Museum and the historic Anamosa State Penitentiary built in 1875. Tours are available for both, but the prison museum is limited to Friday through Monday, 12-4. Unfortunately Carissa and I have never been to the motorcycle museum, but we've heard good things. Also consider wandering nearby to visit Stone City, an old company town supporting workers at the local quarries.

National Motorcycle Museum
Anamosa State Penitentiary

River Towns

If you've never explored Mississippi River towns, Dubuque is a great place to start. About an hour drive from Cedar Rapids, Dubuque is home to a River Museum, Casino, and tons of interesting history. While you're there, be sure to ride the Fenelon Elevator up the hill! You'll also be a short 15 minute drive away from historic Galena in Illinois. Both great places to visit in the fall.

City of Dubuque

Galena

Places to Eat

Cedar Rapids has an abundance of mediocre restaurants. Steer clear of them with these helpful tips

Tomaso's Pizza

Consistent winner of Best Pizza in Cedar Rapids and winners of the World Pizza Championship. Skip the New York and Chicago crusts and go for the Detroit style. We eat no other pizza.

3234 Center Point Rd NE
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
(319) 364-4313

New Bo City Market

Open Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, the New Bo Farmers Market is a great place for a fast bite full of fresh local flavors. Check out Greyhound Deli, Roasters Coffee, and Chill Ice Cream.

1100 3rd Street SE
Cedar Rapids, IA

Butchers Block

A great place for breakfast or a hearty dinner. Burgers, sandwiches, and the rest of the menu is all great and affordable. Check out some local Iowa craft brews while you're there.

1117 1st Ave SE
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
(319) 362-2223

Lincoln Cafe and Wine Bar

The Lincoln Cafe is operated by a James Beard Best Chef Award nominee. The cuisine is superb and all locally sourced. You can go cheap and stick with sandwiches. Spend some more and have a full blown gourmet meal here. This place is a favorite of ours for splurging and special occasions. Reservations recommended.

117 1st St NW
Mt Vernon, IA 52314
(319) 895-4041