Winter
As the temperatures dip, don’t hide out indoors. The Cedar Rapids area has much to offer families in the way of outdoor adventures. Several ice-skating rinks pop up in parks around Cedar Rapids, including Jones Park and Noelridge Park and Thomas Park. Greene Square Park, in the heart of downtown, is fun in warmer months with sprinkler fountains and festivals, but it’s especially magical with holiday décor and the city’s very own Christmas tree during the month of December. A short drive east will bring you to Mount Vernon’s annual Magical Night in early December kicking off the holiday season with shopping at locally owned boutiques, a spot to drop letters to Santa and luminaries lining the streets.
Once the snow falls, there are some fantastic sledding hills, snowshoeing spots, and cross-country skiing throughout the whole area as well. In several area parks and natural areas are also options for those looking to get a great cardio workout and wear out the kids during the long winter days. So, bundle up and head outside to enjoy all the Cedar Rapids area has to offer.
Written by Katie Giorgio