This Iowa City Is An Underrated Gem For Nature Lovers

Iowa is not particularly seen as a premier destination for outdoor lovers, but like almost all states, it holds its fair share of natural gems if you know where to look. On the western side of Iowa lies Cedar Rapids. Known as the world's largest corn-processing city, it is the state's second-largest city with a population of 137,710 residents and a metro population of around 276,520.

This modestly-sized city is a relatively affordable business center in an otherwise very rural corner of the country. It contains a number of attractions that you would normally find in a major metro area, including museums, like the National Czech and Slovak Museum—reflecting the heritage of many of the region's earliest non-native settlers, and a developed dowtown core. Aside from the hustle and bustle, Cedar Rapids features an abundance of nearby green spaces, both in and around town, and a commitment to maintaining an eco-friendly living environment for its citizens.

The Top Parks and Greenspace in Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids and its surrounding landscapes are home to a number of excellent parks and other natural areas in which you can do anything from exploring bike paths, hiking trails, camping, fishing, and engaging in many other fun outdoor activities.

Indian Creek Nature Center

Located just southeast of Cedar Rapids, Indian Creek Nature Center offers a premier outdoor experience for nature lovers of all kinds. Spanning over 120 acres, it features an extensive trail system that winds through woodlands, wetlands, and prairie landscapes. The center is a haven for birdwatchers, with sightings of herons and woodpeckers. Seasonal activities include maple syrup festivals, guided hikes, and educational workshops, which makes it a popular place for local schools to embark on field trips.

Here, you can also explore the interactive Amazing Space building, which serves as a place for environmental education and sustainability initiatives.

Prairie Park Fishery

Prairie Park Fishery is another green spot located on Cedar Rapids' southeast side. It is an expansive city park centered around a reclaimed sandpit lake and is a convenient locale for anglers who live in the city, offering opportunities catch bass, bluegill, and catfish. The park also features abundant wildlife besides the fish, including waterfowl and turtles.

This park is a nearly 2-mile-long paved trail that encircles the lake and is ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling. Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities here too, with the calm waters providing a peaceful way to go for a paddle and soak while exploring the lake.

Bever Park

Bever Park is a historic green space deep within the city of Cedar Rapids, a popular spot with a mix of recreational activities and nature-focused attractions for city dwellers.

Established in 1893, the park is home to Old MacDonald’s Farm, a petting zoo featuring barnyard animals that has been perfect for family visits over the decades. Its mature trees and open spaces provide a scenic setting for picnics and leisurely walks. Bever Park also has walking trails that wind through wooded areas, creating an inviting atmosphere for birdwatching and quiet reflection in the bust metropolis of Cedar Rapids.

In the winter, the park transforms into a local favorite spot for sledding and ice skating on its waterways that freeze over if proper conditions are met.

Lake Macbride State Park

Located just 20 miles from Cedar Rapids, Lake Macbride State Park offers a true lakeside retreat for residents and visitors in east-central Iowa. This park surrounds Iowa’s largest lake, which spans over 900 acres and is perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. Hiking trails also weave through diverse landscapes in the state park, from shaded woodlands to open prairies, providing picturesque views and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Here, you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or pontoon boats to explore the lake’s calm waters, while anglers can fish for walleye, catfish, and crappie. A sandy beach area provides a relaxing spot for families, and nearby picnic shelters make it easy to spend a full day immersed in the underrated nature of Iowa.

How Cedar Rapids is a "Green City"

Cedar Rapids has earned recognition for its forward-thinking approach to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The city has implemented numerous initiatives aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and preserving natural resources. It prioritizes renewable energy, with several city-owned facilities powered by solar energy. Additionally, Cedar Rapids is committed to urban forestry, maintaining a robust tree-planting program to enhance air quality and mitigate urban heat.

The city’s “Green CR” initiative promotes energy efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable practices across government operations and local businesses. Cedar Rapids also encourages residents to participate in eco-friendly efforts, such as its extensive curbside recycling program and community clean-up events.

Flood resiliency has also been central to its sustainability goals. Following the devastating 2008 flood, Cedar Rapids developed a long-term flood control system incorporating green infrastructure, such as permeable pavements and rain gardens, to manage stormwater naturally.

With a focus on renewable energy, urban greenery, and proactive environmental planning, Cedar Rapids continues to set a strong example of how mid-sized cities can contribute meaningfully to a greener future. This dedication reflects its commitment not just to sustainability, but also to enhancing the quality of life for its residents and preserving the area’s natural beauty.

Why Cedar Rapids is a Top City for Nature Lovers in the Midwest

Cedar Rapids exemplifies how a midwestern city can harmonize urban development with environmental consciousness, creating a community where nature and progress coexist in a rural atmosphere with tons of wildlands surrounding it. From its abundant parks and green spaces to its eco-friendly initiatives and flood resilience strategies, the city has cultivated a lifestyle that values sustainability and outdoor recreation.

For nature lovers, it’s not just a place to visit but a destination where the environment is integral to daily life. Cedar Rapids offers more than scenic beauty—it provides a vision of what a greener, more balanced future can look like. Whether exploring trails, fishing clear lakes, or embracing its sustainability ethos, visitors and residents find inspiration in this city’s commitment to preserving and celebrating the natural world.