In the midst of our bustling lives, sometimes the best getaway is right in our own backyard. The Cedar Rapids/Iowa City Corridor offers a plethora of staycation options that blend relaxation with local charm and exciting activities. Whether you’re looking for a weekend retreat with your family, a romantic escape with your partner, or a fun-filled adventure with friends, this region has something for everyone. Here are some of the best staycation ideas to consider in the Corridor.
1. Luxurious Hotel Stay with Pool
For those seeking a touch of luxury and relaxation, booking a stay at one of the area’s top hotels with a pool is a fantastic choice. The Marriott Cedar Rapids is a standout option, offering stylish rooms, impeccable service, and a sparkling indoor pool where you can unwind after a day of exploring. Another excellent choice is The Highlander Hotel in Iowa City. With an inviting, indoor pool and hot tub that opens up to the outdoor courtyard, The Highlander Hotel offers the largest hotel atrium in the area. Good thing it’s open year-round because you won’t want to leave!
2. Cozy Airbnb Retreat
For a more intimate and personalized staycation experience, consider renting a popular Airbnb in the area. You’ll find a variety of charming options, from cozy cottages to spacious lofts, ideal for accommodating families or groups of friends. Create lasting memories by cooking meals together in a fully-equipped kitchen, playing board games or cards in the living room, and enjoying quality time in a comfortable and homey atmosphere. Check out a favorite of ours. The Bohemian Firehouse sits atop a retail store, in the hip NewBo district and was the living quarters for the men stationed there when it was built in 1916. The charming brick building is in near original condition, despite surviving a major flood and a derecho.
3. Family-Friendly Fun
If you’re planning a staycation with your family, there’s no shortage of activities to keep everyone entertained. Visit the Cedar Rapids Ice Arena for a day of ice skating fun, explore the interactive exhibits at the Iowa Children’s Museum in Coralville, or take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque trails at Indian Creek Nature Center. Check out the Wickiup Hill Learning Center where visitors of all ages can enjoy a variety of features, including an educational nature center with a hallway showcasing various habitats and exhibits, bird and wildlife viewing areas, interpretive trails, an observation deck, a wetland boardwalk, prairie landscapes, woodland and savanna habitats, insights into Native American history, and a nature playscape!
End the day with a relaxing swim in the hotel pool followed by a delicious pizza dinner that everyone can enjoy. Looking for the best pizza in the Corridor? Check out our Family Fifteen: Best Pizza.
4. Romantic Retreat
Couples looking for a romantic getaway can find plenty of enchanting experiences in the Cedar Rapids/Iowa City area. Take a scenic drive along the Iowa River and enjoy a picnic at one of the charming parks along the way. Treat yourselves to a couples massage at a local spa, sip wine at a cozy vineyard, and savor a romantic dinner at one of the area’s top-rated burger restaurants featured in the Corridor Family Guide (see the Family Fifteen: Best Burgers.) Return to your accommodations for a cozy evening in, complete with a crackling fire or a soak in a luxurious bathtub.
5. Cultural Exploration
For those interested in art, history, and culture, the Corridor offers a wealth of attractions to explore. Visit the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art to admire works by regional and national artists, tour the historic Amana Colonies to learn about the area’s German heritage, or stroll through the charming streets of downtown Iowa City, home to literary landmarks like the Iowa Writers’ Workshop.
From luxurious hotel stays and cozy Airbnb retreats to outdoor adventures and cultural explorations, you’ll find plenty of ways to relax, recharge, and make lasting memories right here in your own backyard.
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