Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery Travel Guide — Iowa

Our Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery guide covers practical planning for Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery Iowa — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground. For those seeking a unique blend of award-winning spirits, fine wines, and a picturesque setting, Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery Iowa stands out as a premier destination. As Iowa's first licensed distillery since Prohibition, this family-owned establishment offers an immersive experience, combining tours, tastings, and a scenic vineyard backdrop that truly captures the essence of the Hawkeye State.

Why Visit Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery

We believe a visit to Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery is an essential stop for anyone exploring Iowa's burgeoning craft beverage scene. It's not just a winery or a distillery; it's a testament to Iowa's agricultural heritage and innovative spirit. Here, you can witness the entire "grain to glass" process, from the locally sourced corn used in their acclaimed bourbons to the grapes cultivated in their vineyards for a diverse range of wines.

Beyond the production, Cedar Ridge offers a full sensory experience. Imagine savoring a handcrafted cocktail or a flight of their award-winning whiskies, including Iowa's number one selling bourbon, while overlooking rolling vineyards. Their commitment to quality is evident in every sip, and the relaxed, inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect escape from the everyday. It’s a place where you can learn about the intricate art of distilling and winemaking, enjoy delicious food, and simply unwind in a beautiful setting. The team is passionate about their craft, and that passion is infectious, making every visit feel personal and enriching.

Who It's Best For

Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery caters to a wide array of visitors, making it a versatile destination for many. It's ideal for:

• Spirits and Wine Enthusiasts: If you appreciate well-crafted bourbon, rye whiskey, fruit brandy, or diverse wines, the tours and tasting flights here are a must.
• Foodies: With a full-service restaurant offering wood-fired pizzas, rustic shareable plates, and a Sunday brunch buffet, culinary adventurers will find plenty to enjoy.
• Couples: The scenic vineyard views and elegant setting make it a romantic spot for a date, a special occasion, or even a wedding.
• Groups of Friends: It's a fantastic place for a relaxed outing, with ample seating indoors and outdoors, live music events, and a vibrant social atmosphere.
• Families (with reservations): While primarily an adult-oriented venue, Cedar Ridge is kid-friendly, especially for events where children under 10 may attend for free with an adult ticket holder.
• Travelers seeking a unique Iowa experience: As the state's first licensed distillery since Prohibition, it offers a distinct historical and cultural appeal.

Whether you're looking for an educational tour, a gourmet meal, or simply a beautiful place to relax with a drink, Cedar Ridge delivers.

Getting There & Parking

Understanding how to get to Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery is straightforward, as it's conveniently located between Cedar Rapids and Iowa City, just off Highway 389.

• By Car: The most practical way to reach Cedar Ridge is by car. The address is 1441 Marak Road, Swisher, IA 52338. It's easily accessible from major interstates, making it a simple drive for most visitors to Eastern Iowa. Many travelers note its straightforward access from the freeway, making it a perfect stop during a road trip.
• From Cedar Rapids: Expect a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on your starting point in Cedar Rapids.
• From Iowa City: The drive from Iowa City is also quite manageable, typically around 20-25 minutes.

As for Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery parking, visitors will be pleased to know that ample parking is available on-site. The facility is well-equipped to handle guests, including those arriving in larger vehicles like RVs or buses. We always recommend arriving a bit early, especially during peak event times or on busy weekend afternoons, to secure the best spots and allow for a leisurely stroll to the entrance.

Top Things to Do

There are many exciting things to do at Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery, ensuring a memorable visit for every guest. Our team highlights these must-do activities:

Distillery Tours & Tastings

Embark on a scheduled facility tour to delve into the fascinating "grain to glass" process of spirit production. These tours are offered on Saturdays and Sundays at 12 PM and 2 PM, costing $5 per person. You'll learn about the history of Cedar Ridge as Iowa's first licensed distillery since Prohibition and see how their award-winning wines and internationally recognized spirits are made.

After your tour, indulge in a tasting experience. Cedar Ridge offers various flights, including whiskey flights (Classic, Top Shelf, Everything But The Whiskey, Build Your Own) and wine flights (Dry Red, Chilled, Sweet). Prices for whiskey flights range from $12 to $20, while wine flights are $8 to $12. This is one of the primary things to do at Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery that truly showcases their craft.

Dine at the Full-Service Restaurant

Cedar Ridge now offers full table service, allowing you to relax and enjoy their delicious culinary offerings. Their menu features brick oven wood-fired pizzas, rustic shareable plates, and butcher platters focusing on local, quality meats and cheeses. Popular items include their superb pizza and flavorful drinks, which visitors consistently praise. The kitchen typically closes at 4 PM on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, with the bar remaining open until 4:30 PM on those days.

Enjoy Sunday Brunch

For a delightful start to your Sunday, Cedar Ridge offers a brunch buffet. Priced at $23.99 per guest, with children aged 6-12 at $12.00 and children 5 and under eating free, it's a fantastic family option. Reservations are strongly recommended for brunch and can be made by calling 319-857-4300 between 9 AM and noon. The brunch menu includes hot-off-the-griddle pancakes, French toast sticks, a cold salad station, and a dessert station featuring bourbon apple crisp and assorted pastries.

Attend Live Music & Events

Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery is a hub for entertainment, frequently hosting live music and special events. Throughout July 2026, for example, they have Friday Night Music events from 6 PM to 9 PM, featuring bands like Airwaves and The Whiskey Fund. They also host "Between the Barrels" concerts in their barrel sheds, offering a unique concert venue experience. Tickets for these special concerts, such as "AN EVENING WITH BRISCOE" on July 25th, 2026, are typically general admission and cost around $35, plus tax and fees. Children 10 and under may attend these ticketed events for free with an adult ticket holder. Limited outdoor seating is available, so bringing lawn chairs or picnic blankets is advised.

Shop for Spirits & Wine

Don't leave without visiting the gift shop to purchase their award-winning whiskies, wines, and merchandise. It's the perfect opportunity to take a piece of Cedar Ridge home with you or find a unique gift.

Explore the Scenic Grounds

Take time to simply walk around and enjoy the beautiful vineyard setting. With outdoor seating areas, you can relax and soak in the rolling hills and forested landscapes that surround the winery. It's a tranquil escape, perfect for photography or simply enjoying the Iowa countryside.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery largely depends on what you hope to experience, as each season offers its own unique charm. However, our team generally recommends:

• Summer (June-August): This is arguably the most vibrant time to visit. The vineyards are lush and green, and Cedar Ridge hosts numerous outdoor events, including Friday Night Music and "Between the Barrels" concerts. The patios are perfect for enjoying a meal or a drink al fresco. Be aware that summer weekends can be busy, so consider making reservations for brunch or tours in advance.
• Fall (September-October): As the leaves change, the Iowa countryside transforms into a stunning palette of colors, making the vineyard views particularly picturesque. The cooler weather is also pleasant for outdoor activities and tours. Harvest season often brings special events related to winemaking.
• Spring (April-May): Spring offers a refreshing visit as the vineyards awaken. It's generally less crowded than summer, providing a more relaxed atmosphere for tours and tastings.
• Winter (November-March): While the outdoor scenery might be less vibrant, Cedar Ridge remains a cozy retreat. The tasting room and restaurant offer a warm escape, and it can be a peaceful time to enjoy their spirits and wines without the summer crowds. Check their event calendar for any special winter events or holiday offerings.

Regardless of the season, we always advise checking the official Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery website for their most current hours, event schedules, and any potential closures before your visit. Their tasting room hours are typically Monday-Friday 11 AM-9 PM, Saturday 11 AM-5 PM, and Sunday 9 AM-5 PM (with the kitchen closing at 4 PM on weekends and holidays, and the bar at 4:30 PM).

Where to Stay Nearby

While Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery offers a fantastic day trip experience, extending your stay to explore the surrounding area is highly recommended. For Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery lodging, you'll find a variety of options primarily in nearby Cedar Rapids and Iowa City, both within a short driving distance. Swisher itself has limited direct lodging, but these larger cities provide excellent choices.

Cedar Rapids Area (Approximately 15-20 minutes drive)

Cedar Rapids offers a wide range of hotels, from budget-friendly to more upscale options. Many are conveniently located near the Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) or along I-380, providing easy access to Cedar Ridge. Our top picks for Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery lodging in Cedar Rapids include:

• Comfort Inn & Suites Cedar Rapids CID Eastern Iowa Airport: This hotel is just 5 miles from Cedar Ridge and offers an indoor pool, hot tub, complimentary breakfast, and a 24-hour airport shuttle.
• AmericInn by Wyndham Cedar Rapids Airport: Another highly-rated option near the airport, known for its comfortable stays.
• The Hotel at Kirkwood Center: For a more refined experience, this hotel offers modern comforts and is highly rated by travelers. It's about 4.4 miles from Cedar Ridge.
• Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Cedar Rapids Airport, IA: This 3-story hotel features beautiful decor, large rooms, suites, a pool, and a hot tub.
• avid hotel Cedar Rapids South - Arpt Area by IHG: Praised for its cleanliness, comfortable rooms, and superb breakfast.

Iowa City / Coralville Area (Approximately 20-25 minutes drive)

Iowa City and its neighbor Coralville offer a vibrant atmosphere with a strong emphasis on arts, culture, and dining, making them excellent bases for exploring the region. Options here include:

• Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Coralville, IA: Often receives excellent reviews for its hospitality and cleanliness.
• Hotel Millwright (Amana Colonies): If you're looking to combine your Cedar Ridge visit with an exploration of the historic Amana Colonies, this hotel offers a unique stay.
• Drury Inn & Suites Iowa City Coralville: Known for its consistent quality and amenities.

When booking your Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery lodging, we recommend checking for refundable rates, especially if your travel plans might change.

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

To help you make the most of your visit to Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery and the surrounding Eastern Iowa area, our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary:

Day 1: Immersion at Cedar Ridge

• Morning (11:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Arrival & Distillery Tour
  • Arrive at Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery. Take advantage of the ample parking.
  • Join the 12 PM scheduled distillery tour ($5 per person) to learn about the "grain to glass" process.
• Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:30 PM): Wood-Fired Pizza & Wine
  • Enjoy lunch at the Cedar Ridge restaurant, savoring their acclaimed wood-fired pizzas and perhaps a glass of their Iowa wine.
• Afternoon (2:30 PM - 4:30 PM): Tastings & Exploration
  • Head to the tasting room for a whiskey or wine flight. We recommend trying a "Classic" whiskey flight and a "Sweet" wine flight to experience the range of their offerings.
  • Spend time exploring the scenic vineyard grounds, taking photos, and relaxing on one of the patios.
• Late Afternoon (4:30 PM - 6:00 PM): Gift Shop & Check-in
  • Browse the gift shop for souvenirs, bottles of your favorite spirits or wines, and local merchandise.
  • Drive to your chosen accommodation in Cedar Rapids or Iowa City and check in.
• Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Dinner & Live Music (Optional)
  • If it's a Friday or Sunday, return to Cedar Ridge for their Friday Night Music (6 PM - 9 PM) or Sunday Music (1 PM - 4 PM) events. Check their calendar for special "Between the Barrels" concerts.
  • Alternatively, explore the dining scene in Cedar Rapids or Iowa City.

Day 2: Explore Eastern Iowa's Gems

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Amana Colonies
  • Drive to the historic Amana Colonies (approx. 20-30 minutes from Swisher). Explore the seven German-style villages, browse craft shops, and learn about their unique communal history.
• Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM): Local Fare in Amana
  • Enjoy a traditional German-inspired lunch at one of the Amana Colonies' restaurants.
• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM): Choose Your Adventure
  • Option A (History & Baseball): Head north to Dyersville to visit the iconic Field of Dreams Movie Site.
  • Option B (Art & Architecture): Explore the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend, a stunning collection of shrines and statues.
  • Option C (Nature & Outdoors): Visit Palisades-Kepler State Park, known for its scenic bluffs overlooking the Cedar River.
  • Option D (City Exploration): Spend more time in Cedar Rapids, visiting the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library, or exploring the New Bohemia district.
• Late Afternoon (5:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Return to Lodging
  • Head back to your hotel to freshen up.
• Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Farewell Dinner
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner in Cedar Rapids or Iowa City, perhaps trying a different local restaurant or brewery.

This itinerary provides a balanced mix of Cedar Ridge's offerings and the diverse attractions of Eastern Iowa. For more ideas on places to visit in the state, check out our guide to Best Places in Iowa.

Last updated: 2026-07-08 by the Roam States team.