Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is a city located in eastern Iowa, known for its rich cultural heritage and strong economic base. Here are some key details about Cedar Rapids:

General Information

• Location: Linn County, eastern Iowa
• Population: Approximately 137,000 (as of the 2020 census)
• Founded: 1849
• Nickname: “City of Five Seasons” (referring to the fifth season, which is time to enjoy the other four)

Education

• Major School Districts:
  • Cedar Rapids Community School District
• Higher Education:
  • Coe College
  • Mount Mercy University
  • Kirkwood Community College

Economy

• Major Industries:
  • Manufacturing
  • Food Processing
  • Aerospace and Defense
  • Information Technology
• Major Employers:
  • Rockwell Collins (now part of Collins Aerospace)
  • Quaker Oats
  • General Mills
  • Transamerica

Attractions

• Historic Sites:
  • Brucemore (a historic estate)
  • The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
  • African American Museum of Iowa
• Cultural Sites:
  • Cedar Rapids Museum of Art
  • Paramount Theatre
  • Theatre Cedar Rapids
• Parks and Recreation:
  • Bever Park
  • Indian Creek Nature Center
  • Noelridge Park

Climate

• Climate Type: Humid continental
• Average Temperatures:
  • Summer: Highs in the mid-80s °F (29-30 °C)
  • Winter: Highs in the mid-30s °F (1-2 °C)
  • Precipitation: Distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with snowy winters

Transportation

• Major Highways: I-380, U.S. Route 30, U.S. Route 151
• Public Transit: Cedar Rapids Transit
• Airport: The Eastern Iowa Airport (CID)

Culture and Events

• Annual Events:
  • Freedom Festival (celebrating Independence Day)
  • Czech Village/New Bohemia Main Street District festivals
  • Cedar Rapids Kernels baseball games (Minor League Baseball)
  • Five Seasons Ski Team performances

Government

• City Government: Council-manager government
• Mayor: Tiffany O’Donnell (as of 2024)

Cedar Rapids is known for its vibrant arts scene, strong industrial base, and rich history, particularly its Czech and Slovak heritage. The city offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it a dynamic and pleasant place to live and visit.