Hi, neighbor! Here are a few lovely, lesser-known spots that are well worth a little detour.
Central City / Stone City area
Hi, neighbor! Our county’s largest natural area hides a little mystery: a New York City police chief once built a grand estate here in the 1850s, and his old icehouse and stone gate pillars still stand among the trails. The Matsell Park Road bridge reopened in August, so it’s a lovely time for a quiet fall walk.
📍 3745 Matsell Park Road, Central City
Source: Linn County Conservation
Mount Vernon area
Hey there! This peaceful preserve above the Cedar River is home to the Eastern Iowa Observatory, where the Cedar Amateur Astronomers host public stargazing nights. There are no maintained trails, so wear good shoes and stay well back from the cliffs.
📍 1365 Ivanhoe Road, Mount Vernon
Source: Linn County Conservation; observatory events: Cedar Amateur Astronomers
Mount Vernon
Hi, friend! Tucked just off the main road is a restored stretch of the original brick Lincoln Highway, leading to a little 1910 railroad bridge. It’s for walkers and bikes only now, and it feels like stepping right back into a 1920s road trip.
📍 10th Avenue SW, Mount Vernon
Source: Visit Mount Vernon-Lisbon
Marion
Hey, neighbor! This charming Victorian home and carriage house is on the National Register of Historic Places and shows how Marion families lived in the late 1800s. Do call or check their site before you go, since tours and events are scheduled.
📍 970 10th Street, Marion
Source: The Granger House Museum
Marion
Hi there! A gentle paved art trail winds past outdoor sculptures and behind the Klopfenstein Amphitheater. It’s a sweet little stroll for anyone who loves art with their fresh air.
📍 Lowe Park, 4500 N. 10th Street, Marion
Source: City of Marion
Cedar Rapids
Hey, friend! Tucked in a 409-acre city park, this farmstead from the early 1900s is on the National Register and is kept by devoted volunteers. Look for their special event days to see it at its best.
📍 1400 Seminole Valley Road NE, Cedar Rapids
Source: Cedar Rapids Tourism
Cedar Rapids
Hi, neighbor! Nine historic buildings show a small Iowa town from about 1890 to 1910. From November through May the buildings are closed on weekdays, but you’re welcome to wander the grounds from 10 to 4 when no private event is booked, so do call 319-286-5566 first.
📍 5925 Seminole Valley Trail NE, Cedar Rapids
Source: City of Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids (southeast side)
Hey there! Designated in 1975, this was Iowa’s very first National Recreation Trail, and its 7 miles of crushed limestone follow Indian Creek and the Cedar River through deep, quiet woods. It’s mostly level, so it’s easy on the knees.
📍 Access near Indian Creek Nature Center, Bertram Road; also Cottage Grove Pkwy SE and Fir Ave SE
Source: City of Cedar Rapids
Hiawatha
Hi, friend! This tidy trailhead with restrooms and picnic tables is where the Cedar River Trail meets the long, leafy Cedar Valley Nature Trail heading north. Pack a snack and pedal as far as you please. Bringing a pup? See our Pets page.
📍 701 Kainz Drive, Hiawatha
Source: Linn County Conservation
Looking for the big favorites? Visit Parks & Sports, Palisades-Kepler State Park and Arts & Museums (that’s where you’ll find the Grant Wood Studio and more). Hours and access can change with the seasons, so please check each official page before you go.
Do you know a hidden gem? We’d love to hear about it at [email protected].