Staying close to home this winter doesn’t mean staying bored. From outdoor adventures to indoor activities, holiday traditions, and quick day trips, the Cedar Rapids–Marion area offers plenty to keep kids, families, couples, and friends busy all season long.
Outdoor & Seasonal Fun
- Marion Ice Loop (City Square Park)
Glide around Uptown Marion’s outdoor ice loop when weather allows.
More Info Here: www.cityofmarion.org
- ImOn Ice Arena
Enjoy indoor public skating sessions all winter long.
More Info Here: www.imonice.com
- Indian Creek Nature Center
Explore winter trails, snowshoeing, and peaceful outdoor scenery.
More Info Here: indiancreeknaturecenter.org
- Wickiup Hill Learning Center
Kid-friendly nature exhibits and scenic winter walks.
More Info Here: linncountyiowa.gov/1671/Wickiup-Hill-Learning-Center
- Sledding at Local Parks
Hit favorite neighborhood hills across Cedar Rapids and Marion — always a winter classic.
More Info Here: cedar-rapids.org/residents/parks_and_recreation
Family-Friendly & Active Indoor Fun
- The Fun Station
Iowa’s largest indoor family entertainment center with rides, arcade games, and high-energy activities.
More Info Here: gofunstation.com/cedar-rapids
- Trampoline Parks – AirFX & Play Lab Action Park
Great for kids and teens to jump off extra winter energy with open jump times, ninja courses, foam pits, and more.
AirFX – More Info Here: airfxcr.com
Play Lab Action Park – More Info Here: www.playlabcr.com
- Spare Time Entertainment
Bowling, arcade games, laser tag, and food — an easy pick for groups.
More Info Here: www.sparetimeentertainment.com/cedar-rapids
- Escape Rooms (Various Locations)
Challenge your group with themed puzzle adventures.
More Info Here: escapecedarapids.com
- Holiday Play Land (Little Sports Torts)
A seasonal, holiday-themed indoor play space with inflatables and hands-on fun for younger kids.
More Info Here: littlesportstorts.com/holiday-play-land
Museums & Learning
- Cedar Rapids Museum of Art
Warm up indoors with rotating exhibits and the world’s largest Grant Wood collection.
More Info Here: www.crma.org
- National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
Discover local heritage through cultural and interactive exhibits.
More Info Here: ncsml.org
- The Iowa Children’s Museum (Coral Ridge Mall)
A short drive away, this hands-on museum is perfect for younger kids.
More Info Here: theicm.org
- Local Libraries
Visit area libraries for story times, activities, and a warm place to spend an afternoon.
Cedar Rapids Public Library: crlibrary.org
Marion Public Library: marionpubliclibrary.org
Holiday Events & Winter Traditions
- Santa Village at Hawkeye Downs
A seasonal favorite with festive displays, winter activities, and holiday cheer.
More Info Here: www.hawkeyedowns.org
- Holiday Lights at McGrath Amphitheatre / Riverfront
Walk through glowing displays and enjoy the downtown holiday atmosphere.
More Info Here: www.tourismcedarrapids.com
- Uptown Marion Holiday Events
From Christmas in the Park to the Peppermint Walk — plenty of seasonal lights, shopping, and activities.
More Info Here: uptownmarion.com
Local Exploring & Shopping
- NewBo City Market
Browse local vendors, grab lunch, and enjoy community events — all indoors and perfect for cold days.
More Info Here: newbocitymarket.org
- Czech Village
Explore local shops, restaurants, and cultural stops in one of Cedar Rapids’ most iconic neighborhoods.
More Info Here: czechvillagecedarrapids.com
- Self-Guided Tours by Skogman Homes
Explore move-in-ready homes across the area during Self-Guided Tours on January 4 from 12–3 PM — no appointments, no pressure.
More Info Here: info.skogmanhomes.com/selfguidedtours
Make the Most of Winter Break
Whether you’re filling a full day with family activities or just looking for something new to try, the Cedar Rapids, Marion, and Corridor area has no shortage of winter fun. From outdoor adventures to cozy indoor stops, there’s always something happening close to home. Be sure to keep an eye on local event calendars throughout the season to catch pop-up events, special activities, and more ways to enjoy winter in the area.