Looking for a summer road trip? Presenting my guide to Cedar Rapids, in partnership with Travel Iowa– it’s the perfect quick jaunt from Kansas City, with plenty of unique finds to discover, delicious food, and lots of local shopping.
Healthy, quick, and the perfect thing to cool you off on a summer day– Rawlicious has a wide variety of smoothies, juices and acai bowls, perfect for enjoying in the park across the street. Or if you’re craving some AC, enjoy the colorful murals inside!
Sip on a tasting flight of locally crafted brews to find your favorite, or treat yourself to an ice cold beer slushie in frequently-rotating flavors. Ours tasted like a pack of Starburst and was the perfect treat at the end of a day of exploring!
Sykora Bakery
Heavenly smells await you inside this mainstay bakery in Czech Village. Try a classic Czech treat like the paczki or a kolach for a taste of . We also loved the apricot jam cookies!
I have Iowa friends that promised Rodina was worth the trip alone– and wow, did this restaurant deliver. The decor seems more like something you’d find in Brooklyn– hip, bright and just a bit quirky, with a glamorously blue and white tiled bar, big windows, and even a fireplace. The menu makes for a memorable night out: we enjoyed delicious and creative cocktails, oysters on the half shell, fresh summer salads and a veal schnitzel in a creamy red wine sauce.
From vintage and antique shops to local artisans and bakeries, you’ll want to spend some time strolling around the area and shopping. Don’t miss the many murals paying homage to this historic area.
Everything you could ever need for creating a plant-filled paradise at home, plus plenty of great gifts– many crafted by Iowan locals, like candles and hand-painted journals.
Next Page Books
A wonderful selection of books awaits you inside this locally owned book shop, along with puzzles for those who found their new favorite hobby this year. The owner gives great recommendations, so be sure to chat him up!
Hike up to the top of this filled and capped landfill, now a beautiful park with trails, for beautiful views of Cedar Rapids. The trails are dog friendly and bike friendly, as well!
