Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Cedar Rapids, IA
Cedar Rapids sits on the Cedar River with access to the Czech Village, Indian Creek Nature Center, and the Brucemore historic estate.
The Czech Village and the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art offer cultural diversity.
Browse by Drive Time
Popular Interests
or browse all12 destinations near Cedar Rapids
Pikes Peak State Park
McGregor, IA 52157
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 2.8k+ visitors) · 1 hr 54 min from Cedar Rapids · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Dunning's Spring Park
Decorah, IA 52101
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 1.4k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 4 min from Cedar Rapids · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Maquoketa Caves State Park
Maquoketa, IA 52060
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 3.9k+ visitors) · 1 hr 10 min from Cedar Rapids · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Heritage Canyon
Fulton, IL 61252
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 1 hr 42 min from Cedar Rapids · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Cave of the Mounds
Blue Mounds, WI 53517
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 5.0k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 16 min from Cedar Rapids · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Backbone State Park
Dundee, IA 52038
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.8k+ visitors) · 1 hr 7 min from Cedar Rapids · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Scenic Overlook
Marquette, IA 52158
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.7 stars) · 1 hr 53 min from Cedar Rapids · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Swinging Bridge Park
Columbus Junction, IA 52738
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.4k+ visitors) · 58 min from Cedar Rapids · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Midwest Old Threshers - Business Office, Reunion & Heritage Museums
Mt Pleasant, IA 52641
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 13 min from Cedar Rapids · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens
Waterloo, IA 50701
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.4k+ visitors) · 52 min from Cedar Rapids · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Starr's Cave Nature Center
Burlington, IA 52601
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.4k+ visitors) · 1 hr 40 min from Cedar Rapids · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium
Dubuque, IA 52001
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Family destination · highly rated (4.7 by 5.0k+ visitors) · 1 hr 18 min from Cedar Rapids · fits $20 - $60 budget
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Cedar Rapids, IA?
The best day trips from Cedar Rapids include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Cedar Rapids?
Most great day trips from Cedar Rapids are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Cedar Rapids?
Many of the best day trips near Cedar Rapids are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Cedar Rapids?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Cedar Rapids, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Cedar Rapids?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Cedar Rapids make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
Plan Your Stay
We may earn a commission when you book through these links.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me