Our Cedar Rapids' NewBo City Market guide covers practical planning for Cedar Rapids' NewBo City Market Iowa — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.
As the Roam States editorial team, we're constantly seeking out the vibrant heartbeats of American cities, and in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, that pulse undeniably emanates from the NewBo City Market. This bustling public market, serving as a dynamic hub for the Cedar Rapids community, is a testament to local entrepreneurship, culinary innovation, and artistic spirit. It's a place where you can taste the region's flavors, discover unique artisan crafts, and immerse yourself in a lively calendar of community events. We've compiled this guide to ensure your visit to Cedar Rapids' NewBo City Market Iowa is as enriching and seamless as possible.
Why Visit Cedar Rapids' NewBo City Market
Visiting Cedar Rapids' NewBo City Market is about more than just shopping; it's an experience that encapsulates the spirit of the New Bohemia District. Since its opening in 2012, this nonprofit organization has blossomed into a premier attraction, celebrated for its diverse food offerings, artisan goods, and engaging family-friendly events. It’s a showcase of local talent and resources, championing the farm-to-table movement and supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs.
The market acts as a dynamic business incubator, providing a platform for over 25 local entrepreneurs to thrive. This means every visit offers a chance to discover something new, from unique culinary delights to handcrafted treasures. Beyond commerce, NewBo City Market is a vital community gathering space, fostering health, happiness, and well-being through accessible public programming and a welcoming atmosphere. It's a place where you can feel the energy of Cedar Rapids, connect with locals, and witness firsthand the city's remarkable resilience and commitment to sustainable practices.
Who It's Best For
Cedar Rapids' NewBo City Market truly offers something for everyone, making it a versatile destination for a wide array of travelers. It’s ideal for:
- Foodies and Culinary Explorers: With a focus on locally grown and prepared goods, the market is a paradise for those eager to sample Iowa's best. You'll find everything from specialty foods and fresh produce to baked goods, meats, and seafood.
- Artisan Shoppers: If you appreciate unique, handcrafted items, the market's numerous artisans and craftspeople offer a fantastic selection of gifts, home decor, and personal accessories.
- Families with Kids: The market is incredibly kid-friendly, featuring amenities like gluten-free and vegetarian options, and hosting various family-oriented events throughout the year. Keep an eye out for special festivals that often include activities for children.
- Community Event Seekers: From live music and cooking classes to festivals and trivia nights, the market's calendar is packed with events that invite participation and foster a strong sense of community.
- Couples and Date Night Enthusiasts: Enjoy a casual meal, grab a drink from NewBo Beer & Wine, and catch a free concert during the "Rock the Block" summer series, making for a perfect evening out.
- Budget Travelers: Entrance to the market is free, and while you'll be tempted to buy, simply soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying the free events can be a rewarding experience in itself.
Getting There & Parking
Getting to Cedar Rapids' NewBo City Market is straightforward, whether you're driving or using public transport, and we're happy to report that parking is generally ample and often free.
How to Get There
The NewBo City Market is conveniently located at 1100 3rd St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401, just southeast of downtown Cedar Rapids.
- By Car: The market is easily accessible via major highways, minutes from I-380. Navigation apps will guide you directly to the New Bohemia District.
- By Public Transportation: Cedar Rapids Transit provides bus service throughout the city. As of April 2026, the CR Transit System Schedule is effective, and you can use Google Transit for trip planning to find the best route to the market. While specific routes to NewBo City Market aren't explicitly detailed in every search result, the district is well-served by public transportation. Adult full fare is $1.00 per ride, or $2.00 for a day pass. Free fares are available for seniors (age 65+ with proof of age or Free Fare ID Card), passengers with disabilities, Medicare passengers, and income-based passengers (with a Free Fare ID Card).
Parking
When considering how to get to Cedar Rapids' NewBo City Market, rest assured that parking is readily available. The New Bohemia District offers ample free and metered parking throughout the area. Specifically for the market, you'll find plenty of free parking all day.
For those visiting the larger downtown area or the nearby Downtown Farmers Market, several parking ramps are accessible. While these are primarily for the Downtown Farmers Market, they can be options if street parking is full. These include the Five Seasons Ramp, GTC Ramp, South Side Ramp, and Convention Center Ramp. There's also the Kingston Yard ramp for those willing to walk a bit further. However, for the NewBo City Market itself, on-site and district parking is usually sufficient.
Top Things to Do
Our team at Roam States believes the best way to experience Cedar Rapids' NewBo City Market is to dive headfirst into its diverse offerings. There are so many things to do at Cedar Rapids' NewBo City Market, alongside other fantastic things to do in Cedar Rapids itself.
At NewBo City Market
- Explore the Shopkeepers: The heart of the market lies with its permanent shopkeepers – a collection of small food entrepreneurs and retailers offering everything from gourmet treats and fresh produce to unique gifts and handcrafted goods. This is where you'll find the best locally grown and prepared items Iowa has to offer.
- Indulge in Local Flavors: Sample diverse cuisines, from Mexican to deli options, and enjoy gluten-free or vegetarian choices. Don't miss the opportunity to grab a coffee from Uptown Coffee Co., which opens earlier than other shopkeepers on Mondays and Tuesdays.
- Attend a Community Event: The market hosts hundreds of events annually, ranging from free, family-friendly programming to ticketed events and classes. Keep an eye on their calendar for "Rock the Block" free weekly summer concerts (Friday evenings, 6-8 PM, May through August), Food Truck Tuesdays (11 AM - 2 PM), Wednesday Night Trivia, Sunday Bingo, and special events like the Iowa Women's Festival.
- Reserve a Fire Pit: For a unique social experience, you can reserve one of the two fire pits in the Market Yard, complete with Adirondack chairs, for a two-hour block. This is perfect for a cozy gathering with friends or family.
- Discover Guest Vendors: On Saturdays and Sundays from 10 AM to 4 PM, the market hosts guest vendors, offering an ever-changing selection of crafts and products from local producers and craftspeople. This is another fantastic aspect of things to do at Cedar Rapids' NewBo City Market.
Beyond the Market (Things to Do in Cedar Rapids)
Your visit to Cedar Rapids wouldn't be complete without exploring some of the city's other compelling attractions:
- National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library: Located in the heart of Czech Village, this museum offers a deep dive into the heritage of Czech and Slovak immigrants in America. Don't miss North America's only Prague-style astronomical clock, the Orloj, outside the museum.
- Cedar Rapids Museum of Art: Home to the largest collection of works by Iowa native Grant Wood, including his quirky studio where "American Gothic" was painted. The museum also offers free summer admission from July 1 through August 30, 2026.
- Brucemore: A National Trust Historic Site, this 26-acre estate offers a glimpse into the lives of three prominent Cedar Rapids families. It's a beautiful mansion with rich history and stunning grounds.
- African American Museum of Iowa: Explore the history and contributions of African Americans in Iowa through engaging exhibits.
- Outdoor Recreation: Cedar Rapids boasts over 100 miles of scenic bike trails. Consider visiting Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area (20 minutes away) for fishing, swimming, and hiking, or Palisades-Kepler State Park (25 minutes south) for limestone cliffs and river views.
- Downtown Farmers Market: While distinct from NewBo City Market, the Downtown Farmers Market runs on select Saturdays from June through September (7:30 AM to noon) and features over 150 vendors, live music, and food trucks.
- McGrath Amphitheatre: This outdoor riverfront venue downtown hosts national touring acts and free concerts, including the "Market After Dark" series tied to the Downtown Farmers Market.
For more extensive Iowa adventures, consider day trips to the Field of Dreams Movie Site, the Grotto of the Redemption, or the Amana Colonies.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Cedar Rapids' NewBo City Market largely depends on what kind of experience you're seeking, but we generally recommend late spring through early fall for the most vibrant atmosphere and outdoor events.
Summer (June-August): This is arguably the most dynamic time to visit. The market's outdoor patio season is in full swing, and events like "Rock the Block" free weekly concerts (Friday evenings) and Food Truck Tuesdays fill the Market Yard with energy. The larger Cedar Rapids metro also hosts numerous festivals and outdoor events during this period, including the Freedom Festival around the 4th of July, and the Downtown Farmers Market on select Saturdays. The Iowa Women's Festival is also held in May at the market. However, summer can also mean larger crowds, especially during popular events. The Cedar Rapids Museum of Art offers free admission from July 1 to August 30, 2026, making it a great time to combine indoor and outdoor activities.
Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October): These shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather and a slightly more relaxed atmosphere while still providing plenty of activity. Spring brings new produce to the market, and fall showcases seasonal specialties and beautiful foliage. The "Rock the Block" series typically runs through August, so early fall can still catch the tail end of outdoor music. The NewBo City Market itself hosts guest vendors every Saturday and Sunday year-round.
Winter (November-March): While colder, the market remains a cozy indoor haven. It's a great time to enjoy warm food and drinks from the shopkeepers, attend indoor classes or events, and find unique holiday gifts. The market is a year-round destination, providing a consistent source of local goods and community gathering, even when the weather outside is chilly. Uptown Coffee Co. is open Monday-Tuesday from 7 AM - 2 PM, while other shopkeepers are open Wednesday-Saturday 10 AM - 8 PM and Sunday 10 AM - 4 PM.
Keep in mind that NewBo City Market shopkeeper hours are Wednesday-Saturday 10 AM - 8 PM and Sunday 10 AM - 4 PM, with Uptown Coffee Co. open Monday-Tuesday 7 AM - 2 PM. The market office hours are Monday-Tuesday 9 AM - 2 PM and Wednesday-Saturday 10 AM - 8 PM. There are no entrance fees to the market itself.
Where to Stay Nearby
Finding the right Cedar Rapids' NewBo City Market lodging is key to a comfortable and convenient trip. We've scouted some excellent options, from full-service hotels to extended-stay suites, ensuring you're well-rested and ready to explore.
Hotels Within Easy Reach of Cedar Rapids' NewBo City Market
The NewBo City Market is located just blocks from downtown Cedar Rapids, offering a variety of lodging choices. Here are some of our top recommendations for Cedar Rapids' NewBo City Market lodging:
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cedar Rapids Convention Complex: This is the only full-service hotel downtown, conveniently located off Interstate 380 and overlooking the Cedar River. It's attached to the Alliant Energy PowerHouse Convention Center and Arena, making it a great option for those attending events there. It's also only about a 15-minute drive from the Eastern Iowa Airport.
- Hampton Inn Cedar Rapids: Often cited as a popular choice, Hampton Inn offers reliable comfort and amenities. While not directly in NewBo, it provides good access to the district and other city attractions.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Cedar Rapids-I-380 @ 33rd Ave: This hotel offers a great location with easy access to popular attractions, including NewBo City Market. Guests can expect quality amenities, including free breakfast, WiFi, and parking.
- Staybridge Suites Cedar Rapids North: Located off I-380 in the north end, this pet-friendly hotel offers modern suites with fully equipped kitchens, free breakfast, parking, and Wi-Fi. It provides easy access to NewBo City Market, the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, and Brucemore Estate.
- Residence Inn by Marriott Cedar Rapids: For those seeking extended-stay options, Residence Inn offers spacious suites with kitchens, ideal for longer visits or families.
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Cedar Rapids North: Another Marriott option, this hotel provides comfortable stays with amenities like free breakfast and Wi-Fi, suitable for both business and leisure travelers.
When selecting your Cedar Rapids' NewBo City Market lodging, consider your priorities: proximity to the market, access to other attractions, and desired amenities. Many hotels offer complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking, adding value to your stay.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
To help you make the most of your visit, we've crafted a sample 2-day itinerary focusing on Cedar Rapids' NewBo City Market and the best of Cedar Rapids.
Day 1: Immerse in NewBo and Czech Heritage
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): NewBo City Market Exploration
Start your day by diving into Cedar Rapids' NewBo City Market. Arrive shortly after the shopkeepers open at 10 AM (or grab an early coffee at Uptown Coffee Co. from 7 AM if it's a Monday or Tuesday). Wander through the market, sampling local treats from various food vendors, and browse the unique artisan stalls. Look for fresh produce, baked goods, and handcrafted items. This is your prime opportunity to experience the "things to do at Cedar Rapids' NewBo City Market" firsthand.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM): Market Delights
Enjoy lunch right at the market from one of the many diverse food entrepreneurs. Whether you're craving a deli sandwich, international flavors, or something sweet, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy your palate.
- Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM): Czech Village & Museum
Take a short walk from NewBo City Market to the adjacent Czech Village. Explore the charming shops and architecture of this historic district. Your main stop should be the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, where you can learn about the rich cultural heritage of the area and see the unique Orloj astronomical clock.
- Evening (5:00 PM onwards): Dinner & Entertainment in NewBo
Head back to the NewBo District for dinner. Many of the market's shopkeepers offer dinner options until 8 PM. If it's a Friday during summer, stay for "Rock the Block," the free weekly concert series in the Market Yard from 6 PM to 8 PM. Alternatively, check the market's calendar for other evening events like Wednesday Night Trivia or Sunday Bingo.
Day 2: Art, History & Outdoors
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Art and History
Begin your day with a visit to the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, home to an extensive collection of Grant Wood's work, including his studio. If you're visiting between July 1 and August 30, 2026, admission is free. Afterward, explore Brucemore, a stunning National Trust Historic Site, for a glimpse into Cedar Rapids' past.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM): Downtown Dining
Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants in downtown Cedar Rapids. From casual eateries to more upscale options, there's something for every taste.
- Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM): Nature or Unique Museums
Choose your afternoon adventure:
- Option A (Nature): Head to the Indian Creek Nature Center, a 210-acre preserve with trails, prairies, and woodlands. Or, for more active pursuits, explore some of Cedar Rapids' 100+ miles of scenic bike trails.
- Option B (Museums): Visit the African American Museum of Iowa to learn about the rich history and contributions of African Americans in the state.
- Evening (5:00 PM onwards): Dinner & Local Entertainment
For your final evening, consider dinner at a highly-rated local restaurant outside the market. Afterwards, check the schedule at the Paramount Theatre for a show or the McGrath Amphitheatre for a concert, especially if there's a "Market After Dark" event planned. For a unique Iowa experience, you could also consider a drive to the Field of Dreams Movie Site, approximately an hour and a half away, if you're a baseball fan.
This itinerary provides a solid framework, but feel free to customize it based on your interests and the specific events happening during your visit. Remember to check the official NewBo City Market and Cedar Rapids Tourism websites for the most up-to-date event schedules.
Last updated: 2026-07-08 by the Roam States team.