What to do and see in Cedar Rapids, Iowa (IA): The Best Sights & Landmarks

Brucemore is a living landmark that charts the history of Cedar Rapids. The 26-acre, park-like estate invites exploration of its history, gardens, grounds, and 21-room mansion. Each season, nature's changing beauty entices visitors to the estate offering new experiences. Concerts, theater, festivals, garden walks, holiday celebrations, and tours enliven the site and celebrate the heritage of the community.

Grant Wood's Cedar Rapids studio is the second floor of a late 19th century carriage house. The modest red brick and wood building sits next to a large, elegant mansion that once housed one of Cedar Rapids' most prominent families. It was in the Studio that Grant Wood painted one of his most famous works of art, American Gothic-a work that was shown at and purchased by the Art Institute of Chicago in 1930 for $300.

Ushers Ferry is open to the public for touring June-August, Monday-Friday, from 9:00 a.M. - 3:30 P.M. Call for more information on off-season hours and availability. Ushers Ferry Historic Village provides the citizens of Cedar Rapids and Eastern Iowa with a venue for family friendly activities, events and programs that build community from the historical perspective of a small Iowa town at the turn of the 20th century. Located on a ten acre site in beautiful Seminole Valley Park, Ushers Ferry features 20 historic buildings that depict life in a small Iowa town between the years of 1890 and 1910. The village features approximately 20 historic buildings, a picnic pavilion, bandstand, and a Lodge banquet facility capable of seating up to 300 persons at tables and chairs. The village offers school tours, special events and educational programs throughout the year and is available for weddings and corporate or private party rentals.