Day Trips from Cedar Rapids
← All Cedar Rapids day tripsDay Trips from Cedar Rapids: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Cedar Rapids, IA. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Cedar Rapids
Des Moines River Valley Scenic Overlook
IA 50156, USA
Just 1 hr 57 min from Cedar Rapids, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic View
Lowell, IA 52623
Just 1 hr 29 min from Cedar Rapids, rated 5.0 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Scenic overlook
Galena, IL 61036
Just 1 hr 49 min from Cedar Rapids, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Pikes Peak Scenic Overlook
McGregor, IA 52157
Just 1 hr 55 min from Cedar Rapids, rated 4.9 stars by 110 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Mississippi River Overlook (Eagle Point Park)
Dubuque, IA 52001
Just 1 hr 26 min from Cedar Rapids, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
Lansing, IA 52151
Just 2 hrs 28 min from Cedar Rapids, rated 4.9 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Balltown Scenic Overlook
Sherrill, IA 52073
Just 1 hr 31 min from Cedar Rapids, rated 4.8 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Louis Scenic View
Savanna, IL 61074
Just 1 hr 50 min from Cedar Rapids, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Balltown Scenic Overlook
Sherrill, IA 52073
Just 1 hr 30 min from Cedar Rapids, rated 4.8 stars by 165 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Scenic Overlook
Marquette, IA 52158
Just 1 hr 53 min from Cedar Rapids, rated 4.7 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Chicken Ridge Scenic Overlook
Elkader, IA 52043
Just 1 hr 26 min from Cedar Rapids, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Mississippi River Scenic Overlook
Guttenberg, IA 52052
Just 1 hr 31 min from Cedar Rapids, rated 4.7 stars by 161 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Cedar Rapids
What are the best scenic drives near Cedar Rapids, IA?
The best scenic drives near Cedar Rapids include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Cedar Rapids?
Most scenic drives near Cedar Rapids range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Cedar Rapids?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Cedar Rapids, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Cedar Rapids?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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