7 Free (or Cheap!) Things to Do in Cedar Rapids, IA
There’s plenty of free and low-cost entertainment to be found in Cedar Rapids if you know where to look. Here’s a rundown of some budget-friendly activities that will keep you and your family engaged and enthralled — without breaking the bank.
1. Indian Creek Nature Center
Escape into nature at the Indian Creek Nature Center, a nature preserve and protected prairie meadow, where it’s easy to immerse yourself in the gorgeous surroundings. Explore the many walking trails, watch for wildlife along the way, or stop by the educational nature center to learn about the land and its inhabitants. If you want to get more involved, plenty of free programs and volunteer opportunities are available.
2. Mount Trashmore Trails & Overlook
Talk about turning trash into treasure! Once a landfill, the cheekily named Mount Trashmore is now a beautiful overlook where you can enjoy incredible views for miles and miles. With three walking trails (one for walking, one for hikers and bikers, and one for seasoned riders), Mount Trashmore’s summit features a viewing deck, pavilion and picnic tables, among other amenities.
3. Cedar Rapids Museum of Art and Grant Wood Studio
Indulge your inner art critic at the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, which houses a permanent collection and rotating exhibits. Though admission isn’t free, it’s very affordable for children and adults alike. A trip to the Grant Wood Studio is a must for those who care about art history. Wood, an Iowa native, paints renowned scenes of the rural Midwest. Grant Wood Studio is very close to the museum, and free tours are available on weekend afternoons from April through December.
4. National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
This museum/library combo is dedicated to preserving the culture and history of the Czech and Slovakian people. A Smithsonian affiliate, the museum and library offer an incredible opportunity for cultural immersion and learning with low-cost admission fees.
5. Community Festivals
Local festivals are ideal for free entertainment! You’ll almost always find live music, performances and exhibits to enjoy, and there’s plenty to see and do. An annual standout is the Freedom Festival, a three-week affair centered on the Fourth of July with endless low- or no-cost activities, such as parades, car shows and marathons. Also worth checking out are AsianFest, Houby Days, Market After Dark and the Root Beer Festival.
6. Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Market
It’s completely free to meander through the Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Market — though there’s no guarantee you won’t be tempted to spend a little money on fresh produce or artisan goods! At the very least, there are typically free samples to enjoy as you walk around, chatting with more than 200 vendors and enjoying the company of fellow locals.
7. The Cedar Rapids Mural Trail
Can you say scavenger hunt? Fill an entire afternoon with color as you chase down the best and brightest murals the Cedar Rapids area offers. Visit crmurals.org to download the self-guided downtown art tour, which maps out all the mural spots you can visit.