Palisades-Kepler State Park is centered around the Cedar River, its vistas comprising hardwood forests, majestic bluffs, and deep gorges. Hike along the wooded trails that take you up the stairs to one of the bluffs, from where you can enjoy commanding views of the river and the park. For those who prefer some history, one can find Native American ceremonial mounds throughout the park that tell the story of the early days before the settlers arrived. Anglers will be delighted to dip their lines in the gently flowing river, looking to reel in some catfish or walleye. For large parties, rustic picnic shelters can be booked for a memorable outing. Campers can choose from rustic, family-style cabins to rugged campsites with electrical and water hookups.
The American Gothic Barn is one of Mount Vernon's most iconic landmarks. Located off U.S. Highway-30, this unassuming little barn is home to a stunning rendition of Grant Wood's famous painting "American Gothic." Created in 2008 by Mark Benesh, this unique piece of life-size art is sure to make passers-by stop and take a second look. Covering the barn's entire façade, the art makes for a wonderful photo-ops stop. So, when in town, stop by to admire the colorful art, capture its uniqueness in the lens and enjoy the views of the surrounding landscape.
Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1993, Ash Park Historic District is a designated historic district in Mount Vernon, Iowa. Originally an orchard estate owned by Reuben Ash and family in 1839, today, it features late 19th and 20th Century Revival and Victorian architecture. Consisting of 42 buildings, amongst which over 36 historic buildings were constructed between 1895 and 1919. Most of these buildings are private residences.
Homeground of the Cedar Rapids Titans and the Cedar Rapids Rampage, this sprawling arena is both awe-inspiring and invigorating. Serving as a nexus of varied fraternities like sports, culture and music, the magnificent U.S. Cellar Center hosts a medley of events ranging from concerts and sporting tournaments to winter shows and corporate functions. What makes this center all the more fascinating is the fact that an astounding arena, ballroom and the luxurious Doubletree Hilton Cedar Rapids nestle on its wonderful grounds. An iconic venue in its own right, the U.S. Cellular Center is graced by legendary artists like Dolly Parton and Lady Antebellum.
Located in Iowa's Linn County, Mount Vernon forms part of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Statistical Area. Platted as a town in 1847, Mount Vernon is a stunning blend of fine restaurants and eateries, lodging options, local shops, boutiques, art galleries, and historic landmarks. The Palisades-Kepler State Park, which makes for one of the popular attractions, provides a variety of recreational activities for the entire family to enjoy. Another famous attraction is the American Gothic Barn, which makes for a great photo-ops stop.
A serene expanse comprised of forested areas and grasslands, Lake Macbride State Park offers many exciting activities for nature-lovers and adventure-seekers. Hike through the woods and follow the trails while taking in the splendid sights the park has to offer. Be sure to get your camera with you, as the forest is replete with beautiful scenery you might want to capture. Bird watchers can enjoy spotting some of the pretty birds that inhabit the park, with the waterfowl, shorebirds and ospreys, being the most commonly spotted ones. The park also consists of campgrounds and several picnic spots.
The St. Paul United Methodist Church is a historic church constructed in 1914. Located in downtown, the church was designed by famous architect Louis Sullivan. The congregation is an active one, with services being held routinely. The church became a part of the National Register of Historic Places in 1985 owing to its historical and architectural significance.
Nestled along the banks of the Wapsipinicon River, Wapsipinicon State Park is a beautiful place to visit for nature lovers. Covering an area of 394 acres (159 hectares), this state park is listed in the the National Register of Historic Places. It is home to several sites that date back to the pre-Columbian period. Visitors can partake in activities like hiking, camping, boating, fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. The park's scenic river, wooded areas, and diverse wildlife provide a peaceful and natural setting for relaxation and recreation.
The First Presbyterian Church in Marion is precisely sited at 802 12th Street, Marion in Iowa. It is a historic Presbyterian Church. It was constructed in 185. The church site is featured on the National Register of Historic Places. It is a fine representation of the Gothic Revival style of architecture. It strives continually to encourage one another in the worship and love for Jesus. Apart from worship services, the church also arranges for the Sunday school.
Theatre Cedar Rapids was established in 1925 and since then it has been entertaining people of all ages with interesting plays and dramas. More than 50,000 people flock in at this theater annually. Theatre Cedar Rapids has completed about 80 seasons and is the first theater that performed Les Misérables and Mary Poppins.
The Old Capitol Museum of University of Iowa is housed on the ground floor of the historic Old Capitol building. With emphasis on importance of humanities, the museum plays host to several exhibits, shows, lectures, and programs depicting the history of the building, and the state. Check out their traveling exhibits, the rotating art shows in the Hanson Humanities Gallery and Keyes Gallery for Arts, Humanities & Sciences, lectures and workshops in the Senate Chamber, the beautiful architecture of the first and second floor of Rotunda, and the iconic Supreme Court Chamber.
The Iowa Children's Museum is one of the few in the city that is dedicated to kids and to their learning and development. The exhibits are mostly interactive and include plenty of activities for the kids focusing on arts and culture, a grocery store, hospital, and ambulance to teach financial and social literacy and other educational exercises that is much loved by the kids. They also have special programs like art adventures, nature play, a night at the children's museum, and many others. The Iowa Children's Museum combines learning with fun and entertainment and is a great place for a day out with the kids.