Check Out On Your Next Business Trip To Cedar Rapids

Discover Hidden Gems in Cedar Rapids

There is more to traveling for work in Cedar Rapids than just business.

There is a wealth of undiscovered gems in the city that are just waiting to be discovered, hiding beneath the popular attractions.

Curious about what's beyond the typical schedule? Continue reading to find the hidden locations that will make your downtime an enjoyable journey.

Situated about two hours' drive from Des Moines, this city is the home of two dozen Fortune 500 corporations and nearly 300 manufacturing factories.

Every year, hundreds of professionals visit Cedar Rapids on business trips thanks to these companies.

Regular business visitors are probably already familiar with the city's main draws, which include the Brucemore, the Paramount Theatre, and the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art.

But Cedar Rapids offers much more to do than that!

During their next business trip, professionals can explore some of Cedar Rapids' hidden jewels when they have some free time.

Roof Access To The Cedar Rapids Public Library

During the 2008 city flood, the Cedar Rapids Public Library was one of the historic structures submerged beneath water.

This popular landmark has been rebuilt with a 20,000 square foot green roof that offers seating, public access, and stunning views.

The library has computer treadmills that can be adjusted and have window views. You can see several of the new constructions that were built following the flooding, as well as the Cedar River and downtown Cedar Rapids.

If you want a quiet place to work or to meet with clients in the library, you can even hire a room.

Pal-Dows Observatory

If you are interested in astronomy, this observatory is a great spot to visit. Unknown to most, amateur astronomers get together here once a month on a Friday night.

These friends who are also astronomy buffs will even lend out their high-quality telescopes. However, they pale in comparison to the enormous telescope, which is activated during these gatherings.

The Milky Way and other beautiful stars are visible with the unaided eye at this position. Naturally, using the telescopes allows you to view even more.

The observatory is a fantastic option if you want to take inspiration from our huge universe and do something different while on your work trip!

3. Eastern Iowa Airport

Although an airport isn't exactly a tourist destination, travelers discover that the Eastern Iowa Airport is surprisingly comfortable. It offers excellent service as well.

Many professionals don't mind at all that they can unwind here in between meetings or in the hours before their departure.

There are several restaurants at the airport, including:

• Cedar Ridge Barrel Room

• Fly Zone

• The Java House

• The High Porch

Additionally, the governor gave his approval for a substantial expansion that would soon be added to the airport, adding even additional attractions.

Morgan Creek Park

This 352-acre area offers recreational and natural characteristics that make it enjoyable for all ages.

The primary entrance to Morgan Creek Park may be found in Cedar Rapids at 7212 E Ave NW. It also stretches into Palo, where an arboretum with a butterfly garden and a campground are located.

The arboretum, according to locals, is best visited in the fall when you can take in all the vibrant fall foliage.

To get out of your hotel room and move around during the summer and spring, consider hiking, biking, fishing, picnics, and birdwatching.

Boat rentals are also available at Morgan Creek Park. Paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes are available for exploring the park's kilometers of waterways.

April through October is when the campground is open. There is a first-come, first-served policy for campsite availability.

Enjoy cross-country skiing in the winter when there is four inches or more of snowfall.

Czech Village & New Bohemia

The majority of residents are aware of this fascinating Cedar Rapids district, but few are aware of what it has to offer.

You may enjoy the stunning big murals painted all over the neighborhoods just by strolling around the streets.

This is an artistic district where guests can even try out creative classes like glassblowing.

The creativity of local artists is on display at the First Thursday creativity Walk. You can take a stroll through CSPS Hall and the Cherry Building.

You can take a guided tour of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, or you can browse at your own pace. The museum hosts temporary, traveling, and permanent exhibitions.

One of the main, and most underappreciated, reasons to visit The District is, of course, the cuisine.

You could not reasonably eat at all of the area delis, breweries, and restaurants in a single week due to their abundance.

Lucky's on 16th offers enormous, fluffy pancakes; alternatively, stop by Sweet Mercantile, a vintage soda fountain and confectionery store.

Uncertain about your preference for wine or coffee? How come not both? A special hybrid of a wine bar and coffee shop is called Brewhemia.

The NewBo City Market, another fantastic area in The District, has a variety of art workshops in addition to Friday night bingo and Thursday night trivia.

NewBo City Market hosts local performances for live music enthusiasts. Concerts in the Czech-Slovak Protective Society (CSPS) Hall range from opera to metal to bluegrass. Local music is often available at bars and restaurants.

RG Books Lounge And Vino’s Ristorante

The martinis served at this restaurant and bar are well-known. Indeed, their Boodies Gimlet was named the Best Martini in the US by the New York Times.

Additionally, Vino's was chosen as the best Italian eatery in the city. This neighborhood restaurant has been in the family for more than thirty years.

Bender Pool

Bender is an  indoor swimming pool  that’s open year-round. It’s a great place to visit if you have your family in tow.

If you’re traveling solo and looking for a quieter time to take a dip, there are specified times for adult swim, lap swimming and water exercise.

All this is available for about $6 per day.‍

Frequently asked Questions

How many manufacturing plants are in Cedar Rapids?

Cedar Rapids is home to almost 300 manufacturing plants, making it a significant hub for the manufacturing industry.

What are some of the Fortune 500 companies located in Cedar Rapids?

Cedar Rapids hosts two dozen Fortune 500 companies, attracting business travelers throughout the year. However, the blog post does not provide specific names of these companies.

Aside from the well-known attractions, what are some must-visit hidden gems for business travelers?

Apart from the well-known sights, Cedar Rapids provides professionals with exceptional experiences during their downtime while on business visits. These hidden treasures include the Pal-Dows Observatory, Eastern Iowa Airport, Czech Village, Morgan Creek Park, and Roof Access To The Cedar Rapids Public Library.

Conclusion

For discerning business travelers, Cedar Rapids has more to offer than what first meets the eye.

There is adventure around every corner, from stargazing at Pal-Dows Observatory to taking in the city vistas from the public library.

Have you ever puzzled why Eastern Iowa Airport aircraft seem to be taking off so closely? Make plans to go and feel the thrill for yourself.

Morgan Creek Park, tucked away behind massive trees, beckons you to get back in touch with the natural world.

And to get a feeling of the history of the area, take in the allure of Czech Village, a bustling center of culture.