Cedar Rapids, Iowa, might not be the first place that pops into your mind when planning a road trip or RV adventure—but it should be. Nestled in the heart of Eastern Iowa along the Cedar River, this friendly and welcoming city is known as “The City of Five Seasons.” The fifth season? It’s the time to enjoy all the others—spring, summer, fall, and winter—without rushing. With a population of just over 135,000, Cedar Rapids offers a rare mix of small-town charm and big-city amenities. It’s the second-largest city in Iowa, a hub for arts and culture, and home to a rich Czech and Slovak heritage that flavors everything from its food to its festivals. Whether you’re an RV traveler, history buff, foodie, or nature lover, Cedar Rapids offers something memorable for everyone. Explore beautiful parks, tour fascinating museums, or stroll through vibrant districts filled with local shops and live music. The city also played a starring role in the 2009 comedy Cedar Rapids starring Ed Helms, further cementing its place in pop culture. With over 300 acres of city parks, miles of hiking and biking trails, and a strong commitment to the arts, Cedar Rapids is a destination worth pausing your journey for.
Things to do…
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The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
More than just a museum, this cultural gem is a journey through the heart
of Central Europe, right in Iowa. The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library honors the stories of immigrants who came to America in search of a better life. You’ll find beautifully curated exhibits featuring traditional folk costumes, ornate glassware, antique musical instruments, and even a reconstructed 19th-century Czech home. For kids, interactive displays and activity stations bring history to life, and seasonal events like kolach baking classes or folk music performances give families a fun reason to return. The museum is set along the Cedar River with a scenic walking trail nearby—ideal for a reflective stroll after your visit. -
NewBo City Market
NewBo City Market is the beating heart of Cedar Rapids’ artsy, entrepreneurial spirit. Open year-round in the historic New Bohemia district, this indoor market houses over a dozen permanent vendors and rotating pop-up shops. Visitors can sample international street food, sip locally roasted coffee, pick up handmade crafts, and chat with Iowa makers and bakers. Events like Friday night concerts, kids’ crafts, cooking classes, and yoga sessions on the lawn make NewBo a community centerpiece. It’s a colorful, bustling space where travelers of all ages can eat, explore, and enjoy a true slice of local life.
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Indian Creek Nature Center
A sanctuary for nature lovers, Indian Creek Nature Center features over
200 acres of restored prairie, woodlands, and wetlands, as well as more than 5 miles of well-maintained trails. Kids can get hands-on in the outdoor classroom or explore the Nature PlayScape, a rustic play area built entirely from natural materials. Adults will appreciate the birdwatching blinds, peaceful walking paths, and guided seasonal hikes. The Amazing Space building is a net-zero energy center showcasing eco-conscious design and offering classes in everything from beekeeping to herbal medicine. Whether you want a quiet walk or an educational adventure, this nature center delivers.
Restaurants in Cedar Rapids…
Cobble Hill
This downtown restaurant is named after the Brooklyn neighborhood
where its chef got his culinary start, but the food is all Iowa-grown. Cobble Hill offers a fine dining experience in a cozy, brick-walled space that feels equal parts rustic and refined. The seasonal menu changes often but always highlights local farms—think duck breast with roasted root vegetables, or handmade pasta in a sage butter sauce. The cocktail program is top-notch, and the wine list has depth, perfect for a quiet dinner after a day of exploring. Reservations recommended on weekends.Rodina
Rodina means “family” in Czech, and that spirit comes through in every
detail of this family-owned eatery in the historic Czech Village. Warm lighting, wood-accented decor, and hearty Midwestern comfort food create a welcoming, homey atmosphere. Diners rave about the buttermilk fried chicken, rich house-made spaetzle, and creative takes on pork and seasonal veggies. Everything here is scratch-made, with an emphasis on food that’s nourishing, nostalgic, and rooted in tradition. Great for lunch or dinner, with friendly service that makes you feel like a regular.Lion Bridge Brewing Company
A local favorite for foodies and craft beer fans alike, Lion Bridge is located
in a restored early 20th-century building just steps from the Cedar River. The ambiance is laid-back and stylish, with industrial touches and plenty of natural light. Their rotating tap list features everything from crisp pilsners to hoppy IPAs and bold stouts. The food goes far beyond typical pub fare—expect hand-pattied burgers, artisanal sandwiches, inventive small plates, and vegetarian-friendly options. Don’t miss Sunday brunch or the brewery’s frequent food and beer pairing nights.
RV Parks Nearby…
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Hiawatha Oak Brook Court
Just minutes from Cedar Rapids in the quiet suburb of Hiawatha, this RV
park offers full hookups, spacious pull-through and back-in sites, and a peaceful, tree-lined setting. Sites can accommodate rigs up to 45 feet, with 30/50-amp service, Wi-Fi, and access to clean, modern restrooms and laundry facilities. Long-term and short-term stays are welcome, and it’s a convenient base camp for those wanting quick access to both nature and downtown. Nearby grocery stores and fuel stations make restocking supplies a breeze. -
Morgan Creek Campground
Situated within Morgan Creek Park just west of the city, this campground is perfect for RVers who love natural surroundings without being too far from town. It offers electric hookups (30/50-amp), a dump station, fire rings, and picnic tables at every site. Spaces are well-spaced and shaded by mature trees, giving you privacy and a true outdoorsy feel. Walking trails, wildflower meadows, and a butterfly garden provide great daytime activities. Seasonal and first-come-first-served availability, so call ahead during busy weekends. -
Lazy Acres RV Park
Located about 15 minutes south of Cedar Rapids in Urbana, Lazy Acres is a
quiet, family-owned park offering full hookups, gravel pads, and plenty of green space. It’s pet-friendly and has pull-through sites that fit big rigs comfortably. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, clean bathrooms, and an on-site laundry room. The rural setting provides a tranquil, laid-back vibe, and the star-filled night skies are a bonus for campers coming from city areas.
Propane Fill-Up Stations for RVers
Ferrellgas – 2929 16th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
Ferrellgas is a reliable national chain with a well-maintained facility in southwest Cedar Rapids. The lot is large and accessible for RVs, and the staff is knowledgeable about RV-specific propane needs. Directions: From I-380, take Exit 18 for Wilson Ave SW, go west to 16th Ave SW, then turn south—Ferrellgas will be on your right.U-Haul Moving & Storage – 3610 6th St SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
U-Haul’s propane refill station offers convenient access for smaller rigs and travel trailers. The location is just a mile north of Highway 30. Look for signs near the lot entrance and follow the clearly marked propane refill lane. Open seven days a week, which is great for Sunday travelers.
RV Dump Stations in or Near Cedar Rapids
Hawkeye Downs Speedway – 4400 6th St SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
Open seasonally (April–October), this public dump station is free and easy to access. It’s located at the main entrance parking lot of the fairgrounds and racetrack. The water spigot is available for rinsing only, so come with a full tank if you need potable water. The lot is wide enough to accommodate large Class A motorhomes and fifth wheels.Morgan Creek Park – 7515 Worcester Rd, Palo, IA 52324
Just west of the city, this Linn County park includes a basic but functional dump station near the campground entrance. It’s self-service and available during park hours (usually dawn to dusk). There’s also trash disposal and water on-site, making it a solid one-stop utility station for RVers spending the weekend in nature.
Books about Cedar Rapids…
“Cedar Rapids: The City of Five Seasons” by Arcadia Publishing
Part of the well-regarded Images of America series, this book is an in-depth photographic journey through the growth and transformation of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. From its early settlement along the Cedar River to its rise as an industrial hub in the Midwest, Cedar Rapids: The City of Five Seasons tells the story of the city’s past through over 200 archival photographs. The book highlights major industries such as grain processing and manufacturing, alongside the development of key institutions like Coe College and local churches that helped shape community life. Each image is accompanied by thoughtful captions that provide context and insight into the events and people that helped define the area. You’ll see early streetcars rumbling down dirt roads, turn-of-the-century storefronts, and the city’s rebuilding after the devastating 2008 flood. For anyone who wants a deeper appreciation of Cedar Rapids’ history, heritage, and resilience, this book offers a powerful visual narrative that both locals and visitors will find enriching.
Where to Buy: Next Page Books, located at 1105 3rd St SE, Cedar Rapids.
“Linn County, Iowa: A Pictorial History” by Scott A. Mather
In this comprehensive work, local historian Scott A. Mather brings to life the broader history of Linn County, where Cedar Rapids is the county seat. The book spans over a century of development, from pioneer settlements and railroads to modern civic institutions and local culture. Drawing on rare photographs and firsthand accounts, Mather weaves a narrative that gives equal attention to the urban bustle of Cedar Rapids and the quieter, agrarian lives of those in the surrounding countryside. Readers will find rich details about historic barns, early schools, and county fairs, as well as snapshots of now-vanished towns that once dotted the landscape. Particularly valuable are the insights into how agriculture, transportation, and immigration influenced the growth of communities throughout the region. This pictorial history is a perfect resource for those interested in genealogy, regional development, or simply gaining a broader understanding of the people who built and sustained one of Iowa’s most dynamic counties.
Where to Buy: Prairie Lights Bookstore in nearby Iowa City.
Final Thoughts for The Smart RVer
As your journey winds through Iowa, Cedar Rapids stands out as a place where the past and present walk hand in hand. It’s a city of resilience, creativity, and warmth—home to vibrant public art, deep-rooted traditions, and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re gazing out at the Cedar River, savoring a homemade kolach in the Czech Village, or taking a quiet morning stroll through one of its expansive parks, Cedar Rapids invites you to pause and appreciate the journey. RVers will find everything they need—from reliable propane stations to well-kept dump sites and RV parks with a personal touch. Food lovers will enjoy the city’s growing culinary scene, and families will be glad they made the stop, thanks to the accessible, all-ages attractions that fill the calendar year-round. Cedar Rapids isn’t just a city to pass through—it’s one to experience, reflect on, and maybe even return to. The fifth season here is real—it’s the time you take to truly enjoy life—and that’s something every traveler can appreciate. So the next time you’re mapping your route, don’t overlook Cedar Rapids. Instead, let it be your Next Stop.