Experience Cedar Rapids this Fall: The Ultimate Weekend Guide for Cafes, Culture, and Outdoor Fun

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Cedar Rapids is a great option when you want to explore more of the Midwest. At just an hour and a half drive (about 85 miles) from Rock Island Arsenal, the city may seem quiet at first glance, but dig a little deeper, and you’ll find its distinct districts. NewBo, Czech Village, and the MedQuarter each bring their own charm, offering scenic trails, cozy cafes, and rich local history. Together, they make Cedar Rapids the perfect spot for a fall weekend escape.

Table of Contents

• Where We Stayed: Residence Inn by Marriott
• Cafes to Warm Up Your Fall Weekend in Cedar Rapids
• Explore the Best of Cedar Rapids This Fall Weekend
• NewBo or New Bohemian District
• Nature Trails and Scenic Spots for a Fall Weekend in Cedar Rapids
• The Czech Village District
• Final Thoughts: Why Cedar Rapids in Fall is Worth the Trip

Where We Stayed: Residence Inn by Marriott

I’m not a huge fan of the Marriott’s Residence Inn—call me spoiled—but the rooms at the one in Cedar Rapids feel old and in need of refreshing. On the plus side, it was spacious, and I appreciated the microwave, sitting area, large desk, and table. I was able to watch TV while my husband enjoyed some football. However, there’s a strange elevator door that creeped us both out. As for breakfast, it was practically non-existent; Steven had a couple of boiled eggs, and I settled for two cups of tea with honey since I wasn’t feeling great. We used about 20,000 points for our stay and got 3,000 points back when we spun the wheel at check-in. It’s more than enough for a quick overnight trip from Rock Island Arsenal.

Address: 1900 Dodge Rd, NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
Google Maps

Cafes to Warm Up Your Fall Weekend in Cedar Rapids

Nothing beats a hot cup of coffee on a crisp fall morning, and Cedar Rapids knows how to deliver. There’s a local cafe scene that’s both cozy and eclectic, each spot offering something unique. Brewhemia, located in the NewBo District, is the perfect place to start your day. The smell of locally roasted coffee hits you as soon as you walk in. I was really hoping to love this place, but the coffee and the avocado toast were pretty bland.

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Lightworks Cafe in Cedar Rapids is a converted garage-style building that also houses a package store. They offer unlimited tastings, making it a fun spot to explore local beverages. We ordered an iced Americano, a caramel latte, and a bag of beignets, which were fantastic. The beignets were covered in powdered sugar, and I enjoyed every bit of the mess! The indoor seating is a bit quirky, with just a small table and a long table, but the outdoor seating is much more inviting.

The following morning, we visited Uptown Coffee, which, unexpectedly, came with “uptown” prices similar to Starbucks. We ordered Steven’s iced Americano, a lemonade float, and a buffalo chicken panini. Unfortunately, I accidentally hit the 18% tip button, which irritated both of us. It feels like every place is pushing customers to cover employee wages. The cafe is located in a charming alley full of art and murals, which adds to its appeal, but overall, the experience didn’t feel worth the price.

Explore the Best of Cedar Rapids This Fall Weekend

Cedar Rapids is an ideal blend of outdoor adventure and cultural richness. Start your day at Indian Creek Nature Center, where the fall colors are fully displayed. There’s something magical about walking through the woods with the leaves crunching underfoot. The well-kept trails make it easy to wander without a plan—just let nature guide you.

After immersing yourself in nature, shift gears and dive into the local art scene. The Cedar Rapids Museum of Art is home to the world’s largest collection of Grant Wood’s work. You’ll recognize his iconic “American Gothic,” but beyond that, the museum holds a treasure trove of pieces that showcase Iowa’s deep artistic roots. It’s a perfect way to spend a quiet afternoon during your fall weekend in Cedar Rapids.

Afterward, we took the 12-mile drove to the American Gothic Barn in Mt. Vernon. This striking roadside attraction is open 24 hours and monitored by CCTV, making it easy to visit anytime. It’s a great stop to appreciate a unique piece of art in the Iowa countryside.

NewBo or New Bohemian District

Cedar Rapids’ districts each bring something unique to the city’s character. The NewBo District, once an industrial area, is now a vibrant hub for creativity and community. At its heart is NewBo City Market, where local vendors offer fresh produce, handmade goods, and delicious eats. It’s also a great spot for live music and seasonal events.

I love going to cooperative markets that house multiple vendors, and that’s exactly what you’ll get when you head to the NewBo City Market. The market offers an inviting, vibrant space in a large, industrial-style building with high ceilings and exposed beams. Natural light pours through large windows, brightening the bustling indoor area filled with local vendors offering everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The open layout allows you to wander freely, taking in each stall’s sights, sounds, and smells. The contagious energy makes it the perfect spot to connect with the local culture.

We grabbed a jerk chicken taco and a coconut lemonade from Caribbean Kitchen, followed by some incredibly juicy brisket from CR Midnight Smoker BBQ. Whether you’re there for a quick bite or to explore the variety of local products, NewBo City Market offers a lively and authentic Cedar Rapids experience.

Nature Trails and Scenic Spots for a Fall Weekend in Cedar Rapids

The Cedar River Trail primarily runs along the eastern side of the Cedar River but connects to other trail systems, allowing access to both sides of the river in certain areas. Several pedestrian bridges provide opportunities to cross the river, offering a closer look at the city skyline and vibrant murals scattered throughout downtown and the NewBo district. This 13-mile trail provides the perfect mix of nature and urban life, with fall foliage, scenic views, and cultural highlights like public art along the way. While the trail is generally quiet, the river was notably dirty and a bit overgrown during our visit, and there are a few unhoused individuals living along the path. Whether you walk, bike, or simply sit and enjoy the surroundings, it’s a beautiful trail, but be mindful of the conditions.

The Czech Village District

The Czech Village District reflects the city’s deep-rooted Czech heritage. You’ll find traditional bakeries, unique shops, and the National Czech and Slovak Museum & Library, which provides a deep dive into this cultural history. The neighborhood’s colorful murals and lively festivals make it a must-visit.

A walk through Czech Village feels like stepping into a piece of European history. This historic neighborhood showcases the city’s Czech heritage, with charming shops, restaurants, and museums. Spend some time here wandering through the streets and learning more about Cedar Rapids’ immigrant past. Don’t miss the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, where exhibits bring this culture to life.

Final Thoughts: Why Cedar Rapids in Fall is Worth the Trip

We’re trying to see what the Midwest has to offer, and that means going beyond the usual bucket list to discover what truly makes small towns and cities thrive. Cedar Rapids is one of those places that offers a refreshing change of scenery from Rock Island. A fall weekend here blends outdoor adventure, local culture, and small-town charm. There’s also a vibrant mural scene we didn’t have time to fully explore, but it adds a touch of creativity to the city’s vibe. Whether you’re sipping coffee, hiking through vibrant fall foliage, or exploring the art scene, Cedar Rapids in October provides a laid-back yet fulfilling experience, leaving you refreshed and ready for more. It was a fun 24 hours!

Where are we going next? Well, we are heading back to Des Moines. We spent an afternoon there on the way back from somewhere else, enjoying lunch at the Scenic Route Cafe. Check it out here.

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