Cedar Rapids is a city and county seat of Linn County in the US
state of Iowa. According to the 2020 census, the state's second
largest city had a population of 137,710. Cedar Rapids is the
core city of the metropolitan area of the same name.
Cedar Rapids is marketed as the "City of Five Seasons," with the
fifth season being "a time to enjoy." The term "Five Seasons"
appears in many forms throughout the city.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the second-largest city in the state, is renowned
for its blend of cultural heritage, artistic offerings, and natural
beauty. Often called the "City of Five Seasons" (adding a fifth season
for enjoyment), it features sights that reflect its Czech immigrant
roots, industrial history, and scenic landscapes. Key attractions
include historic estates, museums, vibrant districts, theaters, and
parks.
Brucemore Estate
Brucemore is a premier historic site,
encompassing a 26-acre estate with a stunning Queen Anne-style mansion
built between 1884 and 1886 by Caroline Sinclair, a wealthy widow. The
property was later owned by the Douglas family (of starch manufacturing
fame) and then the Halls, each adding their mark through renovations and
personal touches. The mansion features intricate architectural details
like ornate fireplaces, Tiffany-style glass, a grand stairwell adorned
with artwork and sculptures, and a unique basement "man cave" with a
Tahitian-themed room. The grounds include formal gardens, a pond,
orchard, greenhouse, and servant quarters, showcasing landscape design
from the early 20th century. Visitors can take guided 60-minute mansion
tours that delve into the families' stories, highlighting antiques,
portraits, and social history. Special events include garden shows,
outdoor theater, and holiday tours. Reviews praise the passionate guides
who make the history come alive, though note that hot summer days may
limit garden exploration—opt for cooler times or indoor-focused visits.
Admission is around $10-15; open year-round with seasonal hours. It's
ideal for history buffs and families, offering a glimpse into Gilded Age
opulence amid Iowa's heartland.
National Czech & Slovak Museum &
Library
Located in the heart of Cedar Rapids' Czech heritage
district, this museum preserves and celebrates the stories of Czech and
Slovak immigrants. Founded in 1974 by local descendants, it expanded
significantly after being devastated by the 2008 flood, reopening in
2012 with a modern facility. Exhibits include immersive displays on
immigration journeys (featuring a replica immigrant home and artifacts
from the 1800s), traditional folk art, costumes, glassware, and
historical timelines covering events like the Velvet Revolution. The
library houses over 30,000 books, genealogical records, and oral
histories for research. Key features: Interactive elements for children,
a clock tower with hourly chimes, and outdoor sculptures. Events range
from cultural festivals to the annual Old World Christmas Market with
crafts, music, and food. Visitors rave about the educational value, with
reviews highlighting emotional connections to ancestry and well-curated
displays; one noted the "beautiful building and thoughtful exhibits."
Admission is $12 for adults, free for members; open daily. Tips: Allow
1-2 hours, and combine with a visit to nearby Czech Village for a full
cultural immersion. It's a must for those exploring ethnic history in
the Midwest.
Cedar Rapids Museum of Art
Established in 1905
and housed in a historic Carnegie library building (expanded in the
1980s), this museum boasts the world's largest collection of works by
Grant Wood, the iconic American Regionalist painter famous for "American
Gothic." Key collections include over 7,500 pieces of 20th-century
American art, prints, sculptures, ceramics, and regional artists like
Marvin Cone. Notable artworks: Wood's "Woman with Plants" and "Young
Corn," alongside temporary exhibitions such as "Marvin Cone: An American
Vision" and "Mata Ortiz Ceramics." The museum emphasizes Midwestern
themes, with galleries exploring labor, landscapes, and cultural
identity. Visitors appreciate the manageable size (perfect for 1-2
hours), high-quality curation, and fantastic gift shop with unique
art-inspired items. Reviews mention helpful staff, like the executive
director providing personalized guidance, and family-friendly aspects.
Open Tuesday-Sunday with varying hours (free Thursday evenings);
admission $10 for adults. Tips: Check for special exhibits, and visit
the nearby Grant Wood Studio for more insight into the artist's life.
It's a gem for art lovers seeking authentic Iowa creativity.
NewBo City Market
Opened in 2012 as part of the revitalized New
Bohemia district, NewBo City Market is a nonprofit incubator supporting
local entrepreneurs and serving as a community hub. Housed in a former
warehouse, it features about a dozen permanent shops and food stalls
offering diverse cuisines (from Asian fusion to BBQ), artisanal goods,
and craft beers. Weekend vendors expand options with art, crafts, baked
goods, and produce. The market's purpose is economic development,
providing low-cost spaces for startups. Events include free live music
Fridays, farmers' markets, yoga sessions, and festivals like food truck
rallies. Visitors describe it as "unique and vibrant," though smaller
than some expect—ideal for grabbing lunch or browsing. Open
Wednesday-Sunday; free entry. Tips: Visit on weekends for the full
experience, and explore nearby breweries like Big Grove. It's a lively
spot reflecting Cedar Rapids' modern, community-driven side.
Paramount Theatre
Built in 1928 as a vaudeville and movie palace, the
Paramount Theatre is a restored architectural treasure in Spanish
Revival style, featuring intricate plasterwork, a grand chandelier,
painted ceilings, and gold leaf details. It survived the 2008 flood
through extensive renovation, reopening in 2010. The 1,900-seat venue
hosts Broadway shows, concerts, symphony performances, and comedy acts,
with excellent acoustics and sightlines. History ties to the city's
entertainment legacy, originally part of the Paramount chain. Visitors
love the opulent interior and intimate feel, with reviews noting
memorable events like orchestra concerts. Tickets vary by event; check
the calendar for shows. Tips: Arrive early for seating, and consider
balcony views for the full grandeur. It's a cultural cornerstone for
performing arts enthusiasts.
Czech Village and New Bohemia
District
These adjacent neighborhoods, collectively known as "The
District," honor Cedar Rapids' Bohemian roots, settled by Czech
immigrants in the 1850s. Czech Village features colorful murals,
historic buildings, shops selling kolaches and crystal, restaurants with
Eastern European fare, and bars. New Bohemia (NewBo) is more eclectic,
with street art, breweries, and the NewBo City Market as its
centerpiece. History includes resilience after floods, now a revitalized
area with public art installations reflecting immigrant stories.
Attractions: Boutiques, cafes, and events like Houby Days festival
(mushroom-themed) and farmers' markets. Visitors enjoy the walkable
vibe, finding unique souvenirs and food; one review called it "charming
with interesting public art." Free to explore; best on foot or bike.
Tips: Pair with the Czech Museum for context, and visit during events
for live music and crowds. It's a vibrant showcase of cultural fusion.
Palisades-Kepler State Park
About 12 miles east of Cedar Rapids,
this 840-acre park along the Cedar River offers dramatic limestone
bluffs rising 100 feet, formed by glacial activity. Established in 1922
and named after local astronomer Byron Kepler, it features ancient
Native American mounds and diverse ecosystems. Activities include 6
miles of hiking trails (with river views and wildflowers), fishing for
catfish, boating, picnicking, and birdwatching (eagles common).
Facilities: 44 campsites (electric and non-electric), a historic lodge
for rentals, playgrounds, and beach access. In fall, the foliage is
spectacular. Visitors praise the scenic overlooks and peaceful trails,
ideal for day hikes. Open year-round; camping fees $12-18/night. Tips:
Wear sturdy shoes for rocky paths, visit in autumn for colors, and check
river levels for safety. It's a natural escape highlighting Iowa's
rugged terrain.
Other Notable Sights
Indian Creek Nature
Center: 210 acres of prairies, wetlands, and trails; features a "green"
building and educational programs on sustainability.
Ushers Ferry
Historic Village: Reenacts 1890s pioneer life with 20 buildings,
demonstrations, and events.
McGrath Amphitheatre: Outdoor venue for
concerts; riverfront setting with food options.
Cedar Rapids Kernels
Baseball: Minor league games at Veterans Memorial Stadium; affordable
family fun.
Farmers' Markets: Weekly events in downtown or NewBo with
local produce and crafts.
By Car
Driving offers flexibility and scenic views through Iowa's
rolling farmlands. Cedar Rapids sits at the intersection of I-380
(north-south) and is near I-80 (east-west), making it easy to reach from
major Midwest cities. No major tolls in Iowa, but expect some in
neighboring states.
From Chicago, IL: About 250 miles, 3.5-4
hours via I-88 West to I-80 West, then I-380 North. This is a
straightforward interstate route with rest stops.
From Minneapolis,
MN: Approximately 220 miles, 3.5 hours via I-35 South to I-380 South.
From Des Moines, IA: 110 miles, 1.5-2 hours east on I-80 to I-380 North.
From Omaha, NE: Around 250 miles, 4 hours via I-80 East to I-380 North.
Tips: Gas prices in Iowa average $3-3.50/gallon as of late 2025. Use
Waze or Google Maps for traffic. Parking in downtown Cedar Rapids
includes garages and street meters; apps like ParkMobile help. Electric
vehicle charging stations are available along interstates and at the
airport.
By Plane
The Eastern Iowa Airport (CID), located just
south of the city, is the primary gateway with nonstop flights from
major hubs. It's a small, efficient airport with short lines, free
Wi-Fi, and rental car options from Avis, Enterprise, Hertz, and
National. Taxis, rideshares (Uber/Lyft), and shuttles connect to
downtown (about 10-15 minutes, $20-30).
Airlines and Nonstop
Destinations (as of 2025):
Allegiant: Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Las
Vegas (LAS), Nashville (BNA – seasonal), Orlando Sanford (SFB),
Phoenix-Mesa (AZA), Punta Gorda/Ft. Myers (PGD), St. Petersburg/Tampa
(PIE), Sarasota (SRQ – seasonal).
American Airlines: Charlotte (CLT),
Chicago O'Hare (ORD), Dallas-Ft. Worth (DFW), Miami (MIA – seasonal),
Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX), Washington Reagan (DCA).
Delta: Atlanta
(ATL), Minneapolis/St. Paul (MSP).
Frontier: Denver (DEN).
United:
Chicago O'Hare (ORD), Denver (DEN).
Flight Costs and Times:
Round-trip fares start from $88, one-way from $44, depending on origin
(e.g., from Chicago: 1 hour, $100-200; from Denver: 2 hours, $150-300).
Major hubs like ORD or DEN offer connections nationwide.
Tips: Book
via Expedia, Travelocity, or airline sites for deals. The airport
handles about 1 million passengers annually; arrive 90 minutes early for
domestic flights.
By Bus
Bus travel is affordable and direct,
with services from Greyhound and Jefferson Lines (which took over
Burlington Trailways routes in September 2025). Buses arrive at the
Cedar Rapids Intermodal Terminal (downtown) or airport stops, with
amenities like Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Greyhound: Serves Cedar
Rapids with routes from cities like Chicago (5-6 hours, $30-60), Des
Moines (2-3 hours, $20-40), and Minneapolis (5 hours, $40-70). Book
online for flexible tickets.
Jefferson Lines: Covers Midwest routes,
including from Burlington, Davenport, Iowa City, Fort Madison, and
connections to Chicago or Omaha. Fares start low (e.g., Iowa City to
Cedar Rapids: 1 hour, $10-20). As the new provider for former Burlington
Trailways stops, it ensures continued service to Iowa communities.
Other Options: Trailways partners with Greyhound/FlixBus for additional
routes; check for combos.
Tips: Schedules vary; book via apps for
real-time tracking. From Chicago airports, combine with public transit
to bus stations. Allow extra time for transfers.
By Train
Amtrak does not serve Cedar Rapids directly, but you can connect via
nearby stations on the California Zephyr route, then take a bus, taxi,
or rental car (e.g., via Jefferson Lines or rideshare). This option is
scenic but less direct.
Closest Amtrak Stations:
Mount
Pleasant, IA (MTP): 75 miles south (1.5-hour drive), on California
Zephyr (Chicago to San Francisco). Station at 418 N. Adams St. with
waiting room.
Ottumwa, IA (OTM): 85 miles southwest (1.5 hours),
enclosed waiting area and parking.
Osceola, IA (OSC): 140 miles west
(2.5 hours), near Des Moines.
Fort Madison, IA (FMD): 100 miles
southeast (2 hours).
Example Route: From Chicago to Mount
Pleasant (4-5 hours by train, $50-100), then bus/drive to Cedar Rapids.
Tips: Book Amtrak tickets online; limited daily service. For Midwest
routes, Chicago is a key hub. Combine with bus for last-mile travel.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa, like many Midwestern cities, harbors a collection
of eerie folklore and ghost stories rooted in its history of
immigration, tragedies, and urban development. These legends often blend
historical facts with supernatural embellishments, passed down through
generations or amplified by local media and online forums. Below, I'll
delve into some of the most prominent haunted legends, drawing from
local accounts, historical records, and community discussions. Many of
these stories involve cemeteries, old buildings, and bridges, reflecting
the city's Czech heritage and its vulnerability to natural disasters
like floods and fires.
The Ghost of Tillie at Oak Hill Cemetery
One of the most enduring haunted legends in Cedar Rapids centers on
"Tillie," a spectral young girl said to haunt Oak Hill Cemetery on Mount
Vernon Road. According to popular tales, Tillie is the ghost of a young
Czech immigrant girl who died tragically young and now wanders the
cemetery grounds at night, carrying a flickering candle. She reportedly
lures unsuspecting visitors toward a mausoleum, where they might vanish
or experience chilling encounters. Variations of the story describe her
as searching eternally for her lost parents or seeking companionship,
with sightings often accompanied by cold spots, whispers, or the sound
of footsteps on gravel.
The legend's origins trace back to the 1960s,
when a cemetery groundskeeper invented the story to frighten a gullible
coworker, but it quickly spread as a Halloween staple. Historically, the
tale may draw from a real person: Tillie Krcmar, a 10-year-old Czech
girl who died of diphtheria in March 1893 during an outbreak that
claimed multiple children in her family. The Krcmar family, recent
immigrants living in Cedar Rapids, buried her in the potter's field of
the old City Cemetery (now part of Oak Hill). Newspaper reports from the
era, such as The Gazette on March 2, 1893, confirm her death at age 11,
noting the family's grief after losing another child just a month prior.
Community members on online forums report personal experiences, like
seeing unexplained lights near the mausoleum or feeling an eerie
presence in the older sections of the cemetery, especially at
night—though trespassing after dark is illegal and dangerous due to
uneven terrain. A related but distinct legend exists in nearby Marion,
where the spirit of Matilda "Tillie" Morrow Ovington, who died in 1917
at age 88 after a long life in the area, is said to appear in Oak Shade
Cemetery. Ovington, a mother who outlived five infant sons, is buried in
the pioneer section, and her ghost is described as a benevolent figure
watching over the graves.
The Apparition of Hazel McGrew at the
Carnegie Library
Another chilling tale involves Hazel McGrew, a
66-year-old Cedar Rapids resident and avid library patron whose ghost
reportedly appeared just one day after her death. On October 9, 1962, a
fire erupted in her apartment building at 511 A Avenue NE, sparked by a
discarded cigarette butt in a trash can. While the flames didn't reach
her directly, McGrew succumbed to smoke inhalation as firefighters
battled the intense blaze, unable to enter the building. Residents
escaped via windows, but McGrew was found lifeless inside.
The next
morning, October 10, three witnesses at the Cedar Rapids Public Library
(then housed in the Carnegie building, now an art museum downtown)
claimed to see McGrew browsing as usual. They recognized her distinctive
appearance and habits from her frequent visits. Only later that
afternoon, when newspapers reported her death, did the sightings take on
a supernatural hue. This remains the only documented apparition of
McGrew, with speculation that she returned to the library—a place of
comfort and routine—to say goodbye, communicate unfinished business, or
simply linger in a familiar space. The Carnegie Library itself is tied
to additional hauntings, including the ghost of Officer Wilson, a
policeman ambushed and killed there in the early 20th century, whose
spirit is said to patrol the halls.
The Ghostly Push at Matsell's
Bridge
Near Prairieburg, about 20 miles north of Cedar Rapids,
Matsell's Bridge (also known as the Ghost Kid Bus Bridge) is infamous
for a legend involving invisible forces. The story claims that if you
park your car on the bridge at night, turn off the engine, roll down the
windows, and shift into neutral, ghostly hands will push your vehicle
across the span. Afterward, handprints—often child-sized—may appear on
the bumper or trunk, sometimes revealed by dusting with flour or baby
powder. The legend attributes this to the spirits of children who died
in a tragic school bus accident on the bridge decades ago, their souls
lingering to "help" stranded travelers.
Variations link it to similar
"gravity hill" phenomena or tragic events, with users reporting chills,
unexplained sounds, or a sense of being watched. One account describes a
group flooring the accelerator after hearing faint cries. While optical
illusions or slight inclines might explain the push, the handprints add
a supernatural twist. Nearby Central City has a similar bridge legend,
emphasizing the area's folklore of child ghosts tied to rural accidents.
Hauntings at Brucemore Mansion
Brucemore Mansion, a historic
26-room estate built in 1884-1886 on Linden Drive SE, is reputedly
haunted by its former inhabitants. The mansion, once home to prominent
families like the Sinclairs and Halls, features opulent Queen Anne
architecture and sprawling grounds. Legends include apparitions of
Margaret Hall, the last private owner who died in 1989, wandering the
halls or playing the organ late at night. Tour guides often share
stories of cold drafts, flickering lights, and shadowy figures in the
bedrooms or gardens, attributed to the family's tragic losses, including
deaths from illness and accidents.
The site hosted Czech immigrants
and industrialists, tying into Cedar Rapids' heritage. Visitors report
feeling watched or hearing unexplained music, making it a staple on
haunted tours. While not as malevolent as cemetery legends, the
hauntings emphasize lingering attachments to the property.
Other
Notable Haunted Spots
Edinburgh Manor (near Marion in Jones County):
This former poor farm and asylum, featured on "Ghost Adventures," is
known for aggressive spirits, including slamming doors and apparitions.
Overnight stays are available, but visitors describe intense unease,
especially at night.
The 13 Steps Cemetery in Palo: A small, isolated
graveyard with cult activity rumors from the 1990s, including robed
figures. Legends speak of a "floating" energy and vandalized headstones,
evoking dread amid dead foliage in fall.
Crying Eyes at Parker's
Grove Cemetery (near Shellsburg): A tombstone carved with an old man's
face reportedly weeps real tears, located in a remote, creepy setting.
Roosevelt Hotel Downtown: Haunted by workers who died during
construction, including a great-uncle who fell from the top.
These legends often intersect with Iowa's broader haunted lore,
amplified by shows like "Ghost Adventures" and community events.
Abandoned Places in and Around Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids has fewer
outright abandoned sites due to urban redevelopment, but remnants of
industrial decline, floods, and economic shifts linger. Many are unsafe
or private property, so exploration should be from afar or with
permission. Here's an in-depth look at notable ones, including nearby
ghost towns within a short drive.
Abandoned Church at 15th Avenue
SW and 2nd Street SW
This deteriorating structure stands as a stark
reminder of neighborhood decline. Once a place of worship, it's now
boarded up and in poor condition, with crumbling walls and overgrown
weeds. Passersby note its eerie silhouette, especially at dusk, and
speculate about its interior—filled with dust-covered pews and forgotten
relics. Safety concerns, like structural instability, deter entry, but
it's visible from the street and often photographed by urban explorers.
Sealed Air Plant on Wilson Avenue
West of 6th Street SW, this
former industrial facility has sat vacant for years, its massive
structure a hulking shadow on the landscape. Originally a packaging
plant, it's now a magnet for curiosity seekers who peer through grimy
windows at rusted machinery and empty halls. Rumors of squatters or
wildlife add to its foreboding atmosphere, though redevelopment talks
occasionally surface.
Beer Caves from the Old Magnus Brewery
Near Interstate 380 downtown, these underground caves were part of the
19th-century Magnus Brewery, used for fermenting and storing beer in
cool, dark conditions. Sealed off after the brewery's closure, some were
damaged during highway construction. They evoke Cedar Rapids' brewing
history, tied to Czech immigrants, but are inaccessible and potentially
hazardous due to collapse risks. Legends whisper of trapped spirits from
the Prohibition era.
Seminole Valley Farm Museum Area
Not
fully abandoned but scarred by repeated floods (2008, 2013, 2016), this
historic site features antique farm buildings with plywood-covered
windows and doors. Scattered 1950s-1960s vehicles once dotted the nearby
Sac & Fox Trail but were mostly removed. The area's isolation along the
Cedar River gives it a post-apocalyptic feel, with rusted machinery and
overgrown paths inviting exploration—though flooding history warns of
environmental hazards.
Buckhorn Ghost Town (About 1 Hour East)
In Jackson County off Highway 64, Buckhorn is a quintessential Iowa
ghost town, once a bustling dairy hub in the late 1800s. Founded by
Shadrach Burleson in 1836, it included a tavern (named for antler
decorations), school, church, cemetery, and the Farmer’s Union
Cooperative Creamery, which peaked with 700 patrons and massive butter
production (34 million pounds from 1899-1952). Annual picnics drew
thousands, but the creamery declined in the 1950s due to shifting dairy
economics, merging and auctioning off in the 1960s.
Today, only the
shuttered whitewashed church, crumbling creamery, and overgrown cemetery
remain, their decaying facades evoking creepiness. Visitors can wander
exteriors (interiors are private), feeling the isolation amid silent
fields. Its haunted vibe stems from the abandoned cemetery and empty
buildings, with no plaques to explain the history—leaving a sense of
forgotten lives.
Elkport Ghost Town (71 Miles Northeast)
At
the Volga and Turkey rivers' confluence, Elkport was leveled by a 2004
flood that destroyed the southern half, displacing residents. By 2006,
the town was demolished, leaving bare lots and faint foundations. Once a
small community, its abandonment highlights Iowa's flood-prone
geography. The emptiness creates an unsettling void, with nature
reclaiming what humans left behind.
Other mentions include the DC
Taylor building on 29th Street NE (appearing collapsed but occasionally
used) and a blue building off North Town Lane (damaged by the 2020
derecho storm), both contributing to the city's pockets of neglect.
These sites underscore Cedar Rapids' evolution from industrial boom to
modern challenges, often blending abandonment with subtle hauntings in
local lore.
Pre-Settlement Era
The region now known as Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has
a deep Indigenous history spanning thousands of years. Archaeological
evidence shows human habitation dating back approximately 9,500 years,
with at least 26 known Indigenous communities in the area before
European American settlement. The land was primarily occupied by the
Meskwaki (also known as the Fox) and Sauk peoples, who named the Cedar
River "Red Cedar River" for the eastern red cedar trees lining its
banks. The river served as a vital resource for transportation, fishing,
hunting, and trade. Eastern Iowa, including the site of Cedar Rapids,
was originally inhabited by the Sac and Fox tribes until the 1830s, when
U.S. government policies and treaties began forcing their displacement.
The area's natural features, including the river's rapids, made it an
attractive location for later settlement.
Founding and Early
Settlement (1830s–1850s)
European American settlement began in the
late 1830s amid Iowa's rapid territorial expansion. In 1837 or 1838,
Osgood Shepherd, a reputed squatter and leader of outlaws, built the
first permanent structure—a 16x20-foot log cabin tavern—on the east bank
of the Cedar River at what is now the corner of First Avenue and First
Street Northeast. Shepherd displaced Wilbert (or William) Stone, who had
earlier built a cabin and platted a town called Columbus in 1838, though
those plans failed. Shepherd's Tavern became a key stopping point for
travelers and newcomers, despite his alleged associations with horse
thieves. Shepherd sold his claim in 1841 for $3,000 to a group including
Nicholas Brown, George Greene, H.W. Gray, A.L. Roach, and S.H. Tryon,
and disappeared from the area by 1842. Convicted of horse-stealing
elsewhere, he later reportedly reformed and became a religious figure
before his death in Wisconsin.
The true founders, George Greene (a
surveyor) and Nicholas Brown (a miller), replatted the area as Rapids
City in 1841, capitalizing on the river's rapids for waterpower. Brown
built a primitive dam and mill, which initially failed but was rebuilt
with engineer Alexander Ely's help. The west bank featured a village
called Kingston, operated by David King with a rope ferry. The town was
formally incorporated as Cedar Rapids on January 15, 1849, by the Iowa
State Legislature, shortly after Iowa's statehood in 1846, with a
population under 400. The name derived from the river's rapids and cedar
trees. By 1850, the census recorded 341 residents, growing to 1,830 by
1860.
The 1850s saw influxes of immigrants, particularly Czechs
fleeing the 1848 Revolutions in the Austrian Empire, who comprised about
a quarter of the 1,600 inhabitants by 1856. Infrastructure advanced with
the founding of Coe College in 1851, water-powered mills, a woolen
factory, and efforts to improve transportation. A steamboat named Cedar
Rapids was purchased, and railroads arrived on June 15, 1859, boosting
growth. "Major" John May, an inventor and speculator, promoted bridging
the east and west sides, including developing May's Island in the river.
Industrial Growth and Expansion (1860s–Early 1900s)
The arrival
of railroads in 1859 transformed Cedar Rapids into a grain and livestock
market, spurring industrial development. The city annexed Kingston in
1870, building an iron bridge (now Third Avenue) to connect the banks.
Population surged from 1,830 in 1860 to 25,656 by 1900. Key industries
included the T.M. Sinclair & Co. meatpacking plant founded in 1871,
which employed 400 and became one of the nation's largest, utilizing
river ice for refrigeration. In 1873, the oatmeal mill that evolved into
the Quaker Oats Company was established, growing into the world's
largest cereal mill.
Czech immigrants continued to shape the
community, establishing neighborhoods and businesses. In 1909, the city
acquired May's Island for municipal use, easing east-west rivalries, and
in 1919, Linn County voters relocated the county seat from Marion to
Cedar Rapids. By 1920, the population reached 45,566. The economy
diversified into agricultural processing (cereals, packaged meats, farm
implements, stock feeds, milk-processing machinery) and early
manufacturing.
Mid-20th Century Developments
Cedar Rapids
continued to grow as an economic hub, with population reaching 62,120 by
1940 and 92,035 by 1960. Post-World War II expansion included further
industrialization and suburbanization. Educational institutions like
Mount Mercy College (1928) and Kirkwood Community College (1966) were
established. The city became known for electronic equipment
manufacturing alongside its agricultural base. Cultural landmarks
emerged, such as the Masonic Library and Museum (1845), Brucemore
mansion (1886), Cedar Rapids Museum of Art (focusing on midwestern
regionalists), and the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library,
reflecting the city's immigrant heritage.
Modern Era and Major
Disasters (Late 20th Century–Present)
By the late 20th century, Cedar
Rapids had a population of over 100,000, solidifying its role as eastern
Iowa's economic center. However, natural disasters have profoundly
shaped its recent history. The devastating Flood of 2008, part of
widespread Iowa flooding from June 8 to July 1, saw the Cedar River
crest at a record 31.12 feet on June 13—over 11 feet above previous
records—flooding 1,126 city blocks (10 square miles) and severely
damaging 561 blocks (14% of the city). Over 7,749 properties, including
5,900 homes and key facilities like City Hall and the Main Public
Library, were affected, with damages estimated at $2.4–$5.4 billion.
More than 1,300 properties were demolished, and over 4,000 Iowa National
Guard members were activated. Recovery efforts spanned 12–15 years,
including a $625 million, 20-year flood protection plan approved in
2015, though funding shortfalls delayed full implementation.
The 2016
flood, caused by remnants of Hurricane Paine, crested at 22 feet on
September 27—the second-highest on record—affecting over 5,000 homes and
prompting evacuations. Temporary measures like 250,000 sandbags and
Hesco barriers prevented major breaches. On August 10, 2020, a massive
Midwest derecho struck with winds up to 140 mph, damaging most
buildings, 20 schools, and businesses; 95% of the city lost power, and
recovery took months, with comparisons to Hurricane Katrina.
Today,
with a 2020 population of 137,710 (Iowa's second-largest city), Cedar
Rapids emphasizes resilience, with ongoing flood control (e.g., levees,
walls at companies like Quaker Oats), cultural preservation, and
economic diversification. Notable figures include founders Greene and
Brown, long-serving Mayor Don Canney (1968–1992), and current Mayor
Tiffany O'Donnell. The city hosts historic sites like downtown buildings
from the 19th century, reflecting its journey from a frontier tavern to
a modern urban center.
Cedar Rapids is the second-largest city in Iowa and the county seat of Linn County, located in the east-central part of the state. It lies astride the Cedar River, which bisects the city into east and west sides, and is adjacent to the cities of Marion to the northeast and Hiawatha to the north. The city's coordinates are approximately 41°58′59″N 91°40′7″W, and it sits about 20 miles (32 km) north of Iowa City and 100 miles (160 km) northeast of Des Moines, the state capital. Cedar Rapids is part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area, which includes Linn, Benton, and Jones counties. The total area is 74.26 square miles (192.32 km²), comprising 73.03 square miles (189.14 km²) of land and 1.23 square miles (3.18 km²) of water. The population was 137,710 at the 2020 census. The city is situated on both banks of the Cedar River, with Mays Island in the river's center historically serving as a neutral ground for municipal buildings to bridge east-west divides. The name derives from the rapids in the Cedar River and the red cedar trees that once lined its banks.
Cedar Rapids features a rolling terrain typical of eastern Iowa, with an average elevation of 810 feet (247 m) above sea level, though city-data reports a slightly lower 733 feet. The landscape is shaped by the Iowan Erosion Surface in the southern portion of the region, part of the broader Driftless Area (also called the Paleozoic Plateau), which escaped glaciation during the Last Ice Age. This results in a lack of glacial drift, exposing underlying bedrock and creating features like river valleys, limestone bluffs, outcrops, caves, and karst topography. The surrounding area is dotted with these bluffs and laced with rivers and lakes, contributing to a varied elevation profile. The terrain gently undulates, with higher points in the northeast and southeast quadrants, influenced by the Cedar River's erosive action over time. Urban development has integrated with this natural contours, but the rolling hills provide scenic views and recreational opportunities.
The Cedar River is the defining hydrographic feature, flowing through the city and dividing it into quadrants. It originates near Austin, Minnesota, and extends southward, joining the Iowa River in Louisa County, forming a watershed of approximately 7,485 square miles (19,386 km²)—roughly the size of New Jersey. This watershed encompasses diverse landscapes, including forests, grasslands, agricultural fields, and urban areas, which affect water quality through varying runoff patterns: natural areas allow slow percolation, while impervious surfaces in cities like Cedar Rapids accelerate flow and pollutant transport. The river's rapids, which inspired the city's name, create dynamic water features, and Mays Island in the downtown stretch is a key landmark, often flood-prone. Minor tributaries and streams feed into the Cedar River, enhancing the area's network of waterways. The city draws raw water from shallow alluvial aquifers along the river for treatment and distribution. Flooding is a significant risk, with major events in 2008 (cresting at 31.12 ft or 9.49 m, inundating over 10 sq mi) and 2016 (22 ft or 6.7 m, affecting 5,000 homes), leading to extensive flood control measures like levees and buyouts. Recreational uses include fishing, boating, and trails along the riverbanks.
Cedar Rapids experiences a humid continental climate (Köppen Dfa), characterized by four distinct seasons: long, cold winters with frequent snow; hot, humid summers prone to severe thunderstorms; and mild springs and autumns with warm days and cool nights. The annual average temperature is around 48.3°F (9.0°C), with extremes ranging from a record low of −30°F (−34°C) in January 2019 to a high of 110°F (43°C) in July 1911. Precipitation averages 35.91 inches (911 mm) annually, distributed fairly evenly but peaking in summer due to convective storms. Snowfall totals about 26.7 inches (68 cm) per year, mostly from December to March. The city is vulnerable to severe weather, including the 2020 Midwest derecho, which caused widespread wind damage.
The geography supports a mix of urban and natural elements, with over 3,360 acres (1,360 ha) dedicated to parks and green spaces, including trails along the Cedar River for biking, birdwatching, and fishing. The watershed's diverse ecosystems—forests, grasslands, and wetlands—promote biodiversity, though urban and agricultural runoff poses challenges to water quality. Limestone bluffs and karst features add geological interest, with nearby areas like Palisades-Kepler State Park (about 12 miles east) exemplifying the region's cliffs and riverine habitats. The 2020 derecho devastated tree cover across 75 square miles (194 km²), highlighting vulnerability to extreme weather, but recovery efforts have focused on resilient landscaping. These features blend with farmland in the outskirts, reflecting Iowa's agricultural heritage.
Cedar Rapids is organized into four quadrants based on the Cedar River and 1st Avenue (U.S. Route 151 Business), which divides north-south addresses, though it runs diagonally outside downtown. Addresses use a system where the quadrant (NE, NW, SE, SW) follows the number, with Mays Island as a central point. The downtown core (ZIP 52401) features a mix of commercial, cultural, and historic sites, including the revitalized New Bohemia (NewBo) district with street art and markets, and Czech Village, known for its Czech heritage, museums, and a new astronomical clock. There are 12 active neighborhood associations, including Wellington Heights and Oakhill Jackson (southeast), Moundview (northeast), Noelridge Park and Kenwood Park (northeast), and informal areas like Bowman Woods, Vernon Heights, Stoney Point, Kingston Village, and Wilderness Estates. The layout emphasizes connectivity via highways like I-380 and U.S. 30, with post-flood redevelopment focusing on resilient, mixed-use spaces. The Bohemian National Cemetery and National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library anchor the cultural geography in the southwest.
Interstate Highway 380 crosses the city in a north-south direction.
The U.S. Highway 30 runs west-east through southern metropolitan Cedar
Rapids. From northeast to southwest, the U.S. Highway 151 through town.
The Iowa State Highway 100 runs in a west-east direction through the
north of the city area. All other roads are secondary country roads,
partly unpaved roads and inner-city connecting roads.
Four
freight railroads, the Union Pacific Railroad (UP), Cedar Rapids and
Iowa City Railway (Crandic), Canadian National Railway, and Iowa
Northern, serve the city on a scheduled basis. Crandic and the Iowa
Interstate Railroad have their corporate headquarters in Cedar Rapids.
Eastern Iowa Airport is 15 km south of downtown Cedar Rapids
Airport, which is served by a number of major American airlines.
Cedar Rapids is supported both in jobs and economically by two companies. One is cereal maker Quaker Oats (owned by PepsiCo), the other is Rockwell Collins, a company that designs and manufactures radio and communications equipment for Boeing and NASA, among others.
As of the 2010 census, Cedar Rapids was home to 126,326 people in
53,236 households. The population density was 688.9 people per square
kilometer. Statistically, 2.31 people lived in each of the 53,236
households.
The racial makeup of the population was 88.0 percent
White, 5.6 percent African American, 0.3 percent Native American, 2.2
percent Asian, 0.1 percent Polynesian, and 0.9 percent from other races;
2.9 percent descended from two or more ethnic groups. Regardless of
ethnicity, 3.3 percent of the population was Hispanic or Latino.
23.5 percent of the population was under 18 years old, 63.4 percent were
between 18 and 64 and 13.1 percent were 65 years or older. 50.9 percent
of the population were female.
The median annual household income
was $52,216. Per capita income was $28,458. 11.8 percent of the
residents lived below the poverty line.
Born in Cedar Rapids
Alanna Arrington (born 1998), model
Ben
Askren (born 1984), mixed martial arts fighter
Douglas Barr (born
1949), actor, screenwriter, director and winemaker
George Joseph
Biskup (1911–1979), Archbishop of Indianapolis
Paul Conrad
(1924–2010), cartoonist
Geof Darrow (born 1955), comic artist
Michael Daugherty (born 1954), composer, pianist and music educator
Karl David Djerf (born 1977), actor
Don DeFore (1913–1993), actor
Bobby Driscoll (1937–1968), Oscar-winning US child star of the 1940s and
1950s
Michael Emerson (born 1954), actor
Terry Farrell (born
1963), actress and former fashion model
Robert Fletcher (1922–2021),
costume designer
James William Good (1866–1929), politician, member
of the US House of Representatives
Michael D Green (1941–2013),
historian
Beulah Gundling (1916–2003), synchronized swimmer, aquatic
artist and choreographer
Donald A. Gurnett (1940–2022), physicist
John Hench (1908–2004), illustrator, storyboarder and production
designer
Victor Hopkins (1904–1969), cyclist
Nathan Hill (born
1978), writer
Zach Johnson (born 1976), PGA TOUR professional golfer
Ashton Kutcher (born 1978), actor and show host
Timothy LeDuc (born
1990), figure skater
Ron Livingston (born 1968), actor
Keegan
Murray (born 2000), basketball player
Chris Reed (born 1992),
American football player
John Sandford (born 1944), writer
Riley
Smith (born 1978), actor and model
Harvey Sollberger (born 1938),
flautist, composer and conductor
Carl van Vechten (1880–1964),
photographer and author
Elijah Wood (born 1981), actor
Other
Alexander Lippisch (1894–1976), aircraft designer, long lived in Cedar
Rapids
William L. Shirer (1904–1993), historian, journalist and
publicist, was educated in Cedar Rapids
Grant Wood (1891–1942),
artist, grew up in Cedar Rapids