There's no better art and culture destination than Linn County, who's streets and parks are filled with beautiful murals and sculptures, providing a unique city scene. And an added bonus: all the beautiful artwork is also surrounded by amazing restaurants and cultural and historical attractions.
Where to Go
1. Cedar Rapids Museum of Art
Experience the variety of this museum's yearly rotating exhibits, which this year heavily cover Iowa native Grant Wood. Rarely Seen Works by an American Master, Americans in Paris: Grant Wood and Marvin Cone's 1920 Trip to Paris and the comical Seriously Funny: American Gothic Parodies all offer an inside look at Wood's life and the inspiration behind his world-famous art.
2. Art Tour
Drive through Cedar Rapids and Marion neighborhoods and you're bound to see art all around you. Murals and sculptures in the downtown, throughout the NewBo and Czech Village Main Street and in the Kingston neighborhood offer endless photo opportunities.
3. UpTown Artway & Lowe Park
Discover even more art on Marion's Main Street and UpTown Artway. This re-imagined gathering space runs behind 7th Avenue and was once an under-utilized alley. Now featuring nine permanent art installations by local and national artists, the space is surrounded by boutiques, pubs and restaurants. A little further out is also Lowe Park and its sculpture trail that is sure to delight art enthusiasts and general visitors alike.
Where to Eat
1. The Map Room
Located in downtown Cedar Rapids, the Map Room adds to the city's art scenery with its beautiful mural on the side of the restaurant. Inside or out on the patio, they serve up even more art in the form of delicious and inventive burgers and fries with flavors from around the world.
2. Uptown Coffee Company
Just steps away from the UpTown Art Way in Marion, this cafe serves up coffee, Donutland donuts and more. The newest coffee shop in the area, it offers a great stop for breakfast or lunch right by all the art.
Where to Stay
DoubleTree by Hilton
Stay in the middle of it all in downtown Cedar Rapids at the DoubleTree by Hilton. Walk to the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, down to the NewBo neighborhood or over the river to the growing Kingston Village. There are also many nearby restaurants offering dine-in or carryout options.
