Uptown Marion, IA, is Having a Renaissance
Uptown Marion is undergoing a renaissance.
With numerous developments taking shape, the 27-square-block downtown district is worth exploring.
About a 6-mile drive from downtown Cedar Rapids, Uptown Marion features more than 60 independent stores, restaurants, galleries and entertainment venues. From your morning coffee fix to an evening nightcap, this charming historic district is an all-day destination.
“The entire district has been going through a revival, and the revitalization goes well with Marion’s tagline of ‘Reach Higher,'” says Jill Ackerman, president of Marion Chamber of Commerce. “The district has reimagined itself, and we’ve had quite a few officials from other Iowa communities visit us to see what progress we have made.”
Rebuilding After the Derecho: A Community Effort
The rebirth of Uptown Marion began in earnest in late 2020, following a devastating derecho (fast-moving violent windstorm) that caused significant damage throughout the city and was categorized as the largest natural disaster in Marion’s history.
New Developments and Projects in Uptown Marion, IA
One of the many recent efforts to enhance the district is a multi-million-dollar streetscape beautification project along Seventh Avenue, a main thoroughfare in Uptown Marion. Dating back to 1880, the historic Owen Block Building on Seventh Avenue is just one example of several landmark buildings finding renewed purpose in Marion.
“Today, in Uptown Marion, there is the beautiful three-story Broad & Main building, with apartments on the top two floors and commercial space on the lower level. Belltower Lofts is also coming online with more apartments,” Ackerman says. “This has become a walkable district with more downtown living options for people of all ages.”
Enhanced Amenities and a Vibrant Atmosphere
Other upgrades to Uptown Marion include the redevelopment of Central Plaza in City Square Park, including an ice-skating loop, live performance space and an interactive play schedule. In addition, the 5.5-mile paved CeMar Trail that connects Uptown Marion with downtown Cedar Rapids is in its final phase of construction.
Also slated for redevelopment, the former Marion Public Library site on Sixth Avenue is awaiting transformation, with the city actively seeking a private developer to breathe new life into the property. In 2024, the city was vigilant about adding and improving on-street parking and vacant lot availability throughout downtown to serve businesses, residents and customers better.
“We have an awesome City Council that is very supportive of Uptown Marion development, and that development has included theaters, restaurants, stores, nightlife, new housing and a creative vibe,” Ackerman says. “If you haven’t visited Uptown Marion in a while, come see the progress.”