The best things to do in Cedar Rapids

“When the crew wants more than another dinner rotation, Spare Time Cedar Rapids packs luxury bowling, a huge arcade, laser tag, and legit escape rooms under one roof... plus multiple restaurants and bars turning out chef-crafted dishes and signature cocktails. Easy spot for birthdays or just because.”

From the Marion newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Family-owned since 1976, Cedar Rapids Bowling Center keeps it fun with automatic scoring, cold beer and snacks, and lively Glow Bowl and Unlimited Mega Bowl nights. New and casual bowlers are welcome, plus leagues galore including a Fantasy Football Bowling League, so grab friends and chase those strikes.”

From the Cedar Rapids newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Locally owned Collins Road Theatres keeps it easy on the wallet with a mix of first run hits and second run gems, plus popcorn with real butter that actually tastes like popcorn. Sign up for Star Rewards, grab Quick TIX, then call it the perfect Marion weeknight.”

From the Marion newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Craving a low-key art recharge, Grant Wood Studio and Visitor Center lines up guided meditations, artist talks, and Grant Wood themed happenings.”

From the Cedar Rapids newsletter, September 6, 2026

“If you need a low-key reset, The District: Czech Village & New Bohemia is a walkable historic Czech neighborhood packed with craft shops, cozy coffee houses, and two award-winning museums, plus regular community events that tend to turn a quick errand into an afternoon you didn’t plan.”

“Looking to swap screen time for green time, Cedar Rapids Country Club is your move. Think dialed-in golf, a steady slate of member events, and a familiar crowd that turns midweek into something you actually look forward to.”

From the Cedar Rapids newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Planning a wedding, party, or meeting? The Olympic South Side Theater brings serious polish with an elegant balcony and flexible spaces that make ordinary gatherings feel like a big deal. Keep an eye on their upcoming events if you’d rather just show up and enjoy something local.”

“Mini Pines serves up 18 playful holes with a nine-foot waterfall, pond loops, and a mischievous quartet of water shots, plus a final horse-race closer that gives everyone a shot at bragging rights. It’s outdoorsy, social, and just the right amount of competitive under the lights.”

From the Cedar Rapids newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Built in 1914 and still bringing the magic, The Ideal Theater & Bar turns a regular evening into a NewBo moment with live music, intimate shows, and a proper bar backdrop. Peek the calendar, grab a friend, let the room do the rest this week.”

From the Cedar Rapids newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Shake off the rust this week at Twin Pines Golf Course, a friendly, easy to walk track with generous fairways, multiple tee options and a family course designation from the PGA and NRPA. Want low-stress putting with the family... the city's Mini Pines Miniature Golf Course brings pure short-game fun.”

From the Cedar Rapids newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Whether you're hunting for a statement piece or just a good excuse to linger, Gilded Pear Gallery keeps things fresh with rotating exhibitions, a savvy secondary market of regional and national works, and services like framing, appraisals, and corporate consulting. Even the Gift Niche begs a browse.”

From the Cedar Rapids newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Beat the August melt with a quick trip to Cherry Hill Aquatic Center, where zero-depth splash zones keep the littles happy, big waterslides and a drop slide satisfy your inner kid, and legit lap lanes let you actually swim. Consider it the neighborhood reset button... chlorinated and cheerful.”

From the Cedar Rapids newsletter, August 15, 2026

“With over 7,000 works and a sweet spot for 20th-century American art, Cedar Rapids Museum of Art is the kind of place you pop into for a quick hit of inspiration, then end up staying for Doodlebugs, the Art Lover's Book Club, or a chill guided meditation at the Grant Wood Studio.”

From the Cedar Rapids newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Elmcrest Country Club is the members-only spot where golf and tennis feel like the neighborhood’s unofficial agenda. Sneak in a quick round after work this week, rally with friends on the courts, then slide into the clubhouse scene to trade stories, and if joining’s been on your list, consider this your nudge.”

From the Cedar Rapids newsletter, August 11, 2026

“Ellis Golf Course blends generous fairways with challenging greens in an urban forest that’s charmed Cedar Rapids golfers for over a century. Sneak out this week for a round, then check the new clubhouse vibe or tune up your swing with PGA pro Mark McMahon.”

From the Cedar Rapids newsletter, August 18, 2026