FREE THINGS TO DO IN CEDAR RAPIDS

1. NewBo City Market

At NewBo City Market—a dynamic public space where local entrepreneurs create an environment of fresh, wonderful food, products and experiences— you’ll find live entertainment throughout the year. For example, on Friday evenings you can enjoy Rock the Block live music events. May through September come out for free exercise including walking, biking, running, yoga and cardio - this is virtual in summer 2020. Open Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

2. Wickiup Hill Learning Center

New this year to Wickiup Hill Learning Center is the Wickiup’s Wandering Woods—a new children’s outdoor natural playscape open year round from sunrise to sunset. Children are encouraged to build, create, climb, balance, move and get messy with natural materials. Go inside to explore Oliver & Ava’s River Raft Adventure Exhibit, designed around a story of a school-aged boy and girl who follow a magical dragonfly on a learning adventure related to Native American history, nature and watersheds. 

3. Linn County Parks Geocaching Challenge

Take the Linn County Parks Geocaching Challenge and explore 25 Linn County parks, preserves and historic sites. Whether you are a seasoned geocaching expert or just learning, this is the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors. 

4. Indian Creek Nature Center

Indian Creek Nature Center’s grounds and trails are available to explore at no charge. Trails are open daily from sunrise to 10 p.m. Visit their website to see the latest hours for the Nature Center and Creekside Shop.

5. Grant Wood Studio

Visit the Grant Wood Studio, a quirky art studio where the famous artist painted the iconic American Gothic. Open April through December on Saturdays and Sundays 12-4 p.m.

6. Cedar Rapids Museum of Art

From July through Labor Day and throughout the year on the third Thursday of every month from 5-8 p.m. admission is free at the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art. The Museum’s collection is particularly strong in American art, especially from the first half of the 20th century. There are a number of artists the Museum holds in great depth – including the world’s largest collection of works of art by Grant Wood.

7. Veterans Memorial Building

In the Veterans Memorial Building you can see the only commissioned stained glass window by artist Grant Wood, which is dedicated to veterans. View it from the inside during week days Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. or see it back lit during the evening from the outside.

8. National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

Students of all ages (preschool through college) are invited to visit the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library’s engaging permanent and traveling exhibits for free on the first Saturday of each month during regular museum hours.

9. Grand Lodge of Iowa

The Grand Lodge of Iowa (also known as the Iowa Masonic Library and Museum) is reputed to be the largest Masonic library in the world with more than 100,000 volumes. The Library’s museum also contains three exhibits featuring an original Grant Wood painting, a Civil War flag from an Iowa regiment, Asian armor, Native American weapons, as well as pottery and decorative arts from around the world. As of summer 2020, open Monday - Thursday 10am - 2 pm by appointment.

10. Czech Village New Bohemia Main Street District

Visit Czech Village New Bohemia Main Street District to experience both the history and the revitalization of Cedar Rapids. A lively mix of art, culture, cuisine, and shopping, this urban neighborhood has endless opportunities and things to see.