A Group Travel Guide to Cedar Rapids, Iowa's Best Destinations

Planning a group trip to the "City of Five Seasons"? You have come to the right place. At Charter Bus Rental Company Cedar Rapids , we know that organizing transportation for a large group can be the most stressful part of any itinerary. Whether you are a local wedding planner coordinating guest shuttles, a teacher planning a field trip for the Cedar Rapids Community School District, or a corporate event planner looking to impress clients, reliable transportation is key to a successful event.

Cedar Rapids is a hidden gem of the Midwest, boasting a rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts districts, and outdoor adventures along the Cedar River. But navigating the one-way streets downtown or finding parking for multiple vehicles during a busy market weekend in the NewBo district can be a headache. That is where we come in. By booking a private charter bus rental in Cedar Rapids, you keep your group together, on time, and comfortable. The drivers handle the navigation and parking logistics while you relax in reclining seats and enjoy the view. From the historic Czech Village to the bustling sporting events at Veterans Memorial Stadium, here is your guide to the best group destinations in Cedar Rapids, and how we can help you get there.

A few of the companies we’ve worked with

National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

Cedar Rapids has a deep-rooted connection to Czech and Slovak heritage, and there is no better place to experience this than at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library (NCSML). Located in the heart of the Czech Village, this Smithsonian Affiliate museum is a must-visit for tour groups, school field trips , and cultural enthusiasts. The museum features immersive exhibits detailing the history of Czech and Slovak people, their immigration to the United States, and their distinct culture. Groups can arrange for private guided tours to get a deeper understanding of the "Faces of Freedom" exhibit or participate in hands-on workshops.

Logistically, the Czech Village can get busy, especially during festivals like Houby Days. When you rent a charter bus with Charter Bus Rental Company Cedar Rapids, your driver can drop your group off right at the main entrance for easy accessibility. While your group explores the expansive library or the beautiful riverfront amphitheater, your bus can park in designated areas nearby, ready to pick you up when you are finished. Don't forget to stop by the Museum Store for authentic glass ornaments and books!

National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library 1400 Inspiration Pl SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404

Brucemore

Step back in time and experience the grandeur of the Queen Anne-style mansion at Brucemore. Situated on a 26-acre estate, Brucemore is more than just a historic home; it is a community hub for concerts, theater, and garden tours. This is a fantastic destination for senior citizen tour groups, history classes, and private organizations. The estate tells the story of three influential families who lived there and shaped the history of Cedar Rapids. Visitors can tour the 21-room mansion, wander through the formal gardens, or check out the dizzying array of plants in the Lord & Burnham greenhouse.

For groups, Brucemore offers discounted rates and specialized tour options, but they require advance booking. Parking on the estate grounds is available, but navigating a large motorcoach through the historic gates requires a skilled hand. The drivers at Charter Bus Rental Company Cedar Rapids handle large vehicles in historic settings, ensuring a smooth entry and exit so your group can focus on the stunning architecture and lush landscapes.

Brucemore 2160 Linden Dr SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403

NewBo City Market

If you have a large group with diverse tastes, lunch time can be a logistical nightmare. That is why we always recommend NewBo City Market for our charter bus groups. Located in the dynamic New Bohemia Main Street District, this indoor public market features a wide variety of local merchants, food vendors, and artisans. From gourmet grilled cheese and authentic Caribbean food to artisan coffee and local ice cream, there is something for everyone. It is the perfect pit-stop for corporate groups needing a casual lunch or student groups needing a break from museum hopping.

The NewBo district is incredibly walkable, but parking can be scarce, especially on weekends when the farmers market is in full swing. By booking a minibus or charter bus, your group can be dropped off curbside on 3rd Street. Your driver can handle the parking logistics while your group enjoys the food, the rotary hall events, or a walk through the nearby sculpture gardens. It’s the ultimate stress-free dining experience.

NewBo City Market 1100 3rd St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401

Cedar Rapids Museum of Art

Did you know that Grant Wood, the painter of the famous American Gothic, lived and worked in Cedar Rapids? Art lovers and educational groups cannot miss the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art (CRMA) downtown. The museum holds the world's largest collection of Grant Wood works and also features extensive Roman portraits and contemporary art. A group visit here isn't complete without a tour of the Grant Wood Studio just a few blocks away (owned and operated by the museum), where the artist lived and painted many of his most famous works.

Navigating downtown Cedar Rapids traffic and finding parking for a caravan of cars can detract from the artistic experience. A private bus rental allows your group to be dropped off directly at the museum entrance on 3rd Avenue. We can transport your group between the main museum building and the Grant Wood Studio effortlessly, keeping your tour on schedule and your group together.

Cedar Rapids Museum of Art 410 3rd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401

Veterans Memorial Stadium

Take me out to the ballgame! There is nothing quite like a summer evening cheering on the Cedar Rapids Kernels, the High-A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins. Veterans Memorial Stadium is a favorite destination for corporate outings , family reunions, and youth sports teams. The stadium offers group seating packages and party decks that make hosting an event easy. Whether you are there for the baseball, the fireworks on Saturday nights, or the mascot antics, it’s a classic American experience.

However, coordinating a meetup for 20, 30, or 50 people at a busy stadium can be chaotic. Skip the hassle of finding everyone in the parking lot or paying for individual parking passes. With a charter bus rental from Charter Bus Rental Company Cedar Rapids, your entire roster or office team arrives together. We offer ample storage space under the bus for tailgating gear, coolers, and banners. Enjoy a few drinks at the game knowing you have a designated driver ready to take everyone home safely.

Veterans Memorial Stadium 950 Rockford Rd SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404

The African American Museum of Iowa

Located along the Cedar River, just across from the NewBo district, The African American Museum of Iowa is a statewide treasure dedicated to preserving and teaching the African American history of Iowa. This museum is an essential stop for educational field trips and community groups. Through permanent and traveling exhibits, the museum explores the heritage of African Americans in Iowa from the days of slavery and the Underground Railroad through the Civil Rights movement and into the present day.

The museum offers guided tours which are perfect for large groups, but scheduling is required. When you book your transportation with us, we ensure you arrive with plenty of time to check in and start your tour without rushing. The museum’s location makes it easy to combine with a visit to the National Czech & Slovak Museum for a full day of cultural immersion, and your charter bus makes transferring between these locations seamless.

The African American Museum of Iowa 55 12th Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401

Paramount Theatre

For a touch of elegance and world-class entertainment, the Paramount Theatre is the crown jewel of downtown Cedar Rapids. This restored historic theater, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, hosts Broadway tours, the Orchestra Iowa, concerts, and comedy shows. It is a spectacular venue for a corporate gala evening or a sophisticated outing for a senior travel group. The architecture alone—a stunning example of the Hall of Mirrors in Versailles—is worth the visit.

Attending a show downtown often means fighting for parking spots in ramps or walking long distances in evening wear. Eliminate that inconvenience with a door-to-door shuttle service. Your charter bus driver can drop your party off right in front of the marquee on 3rd Avenue, allowing you to make a grand entrance. After the final curtain call, your warm, comfortable bus will be waiting to whisk you away to your hotel or a post-show dinner.

Paramount Theatre 123 3rd Ave SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401

Indian Creek Nature Center

For groups who want to reconnect with nature, the Indian Creek Nature Center is the premier destination. Located on 210 acres of wetlands, prairies, and woodlands, it is Iowa's only private, non-profit nature center. The Amazing Space auditorium and classrooms are perfect for educational programs, while the trails offer a great escape for active groups. It is a popular spot for school science trips, scout troops, and corporate sustainability retreats.

Because the Nature Center is located a bit further out from the city center on Otis Road, utilizing a school bus or charter bus is the most efficient way to get a large group there. Our buses have plenty of overhead storage for backpacks, water bottles, and hiking gear. Plus, with onboard climate control, your group can cool off quickly after a long day of hiking the trails or exploring the butterfly house.

Indian Creek Nature Center 5300 Otis Rd SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403

Explore Cedar Rapids with Charter Bus Rental Company Cedar Rapids

Whether you are exploring the cultural heritage of the Czech Village, enjoying a ballgame, or immersing yourself in the arts downtown, Cedar Rapids has something for every group. Don't let the logistics of moving people dampen the experience. Charter Bus Rental Company Cedar Rapids provides the most reliable, comfortable, and professional group transportation in Eastern Iowa.

From 18-passenger minibuses for intimate wedding parties to 56-passenger motorcoaches for large conventions, we have the fleet to meet your needs. Our reservation specialists are available 24/7/365 to build a custom quote for your itinerary. We handle the traffic, the parking, and the timing so you can focus on making memories. Call us today at 563-551-8160 to get your free, no-obligation quote and start planning your Cedar Rapids adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cedar Rapids Group Travel Transportation

How much does a charter bus rental cost in Cedar Rapids?

Charter bus pricing varies based on several factors, including the size of the bus, the time of year, the duration of your trip, and how far you are traveling. For example, a local wedding shuttle booked for 6 hours will have a different price point than a multi-day trip to Chicago or Des Moines. We offer transparent, personalized pricing. Call our team at 563-551-8160 with your itinerary, and we can give you a free, accurate quote in minutes.

How far in advance should I book my bus?

We recommend booking your charter bus as early as possible to ensure the best availability and pricing. For peak seasons (spring field trips, summer weddings, and fall sports), we suggest booking 3 to 6 months in advance. However, Charter Bus Rental Company Cedar Rapids can often accommodate last-minute requests, so don’t hesitate to call us even if your trip is just around the corner!

Is there parking for the bus at these attractions?

Most major attractions in Cedar Rapids, like the Veterans Memorial Stadium and the National Czech & Slovak Museum, have dedicated areas or ample space for motorcoach parking. For downtown locations like the Paramount Theatre or Museum of Art, your driver will typically drop your group off at the entrance and then park the bus at a designated off-site location or staging area until you are ready to be picked up. We handle these logistics so you don't have to.

Do you service areas outside of Cedar Rapids?

Absolutely! While we love Cedar Rapids, Charter Bus Rental Company Cedar Rapids provides group transportation throughout the entire state of Iowa and the Midwest. Whether you need a charter bus to Iowa City for a Hawkeyes game, a shuttle to the Des Moines airport, or a road trip to neighboring states, we have you covered. We are your statewide transportation partner.