Experience Cedar Rapids this Fall, Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Cedar Rapids is a great option when you want to explore more of the Midwest. At just an hour and a half drive (about 85 miles) from Rock Island Arsenal, the city may seem quiet at first glance, but dig a little deeper, and you’ll find its distinct districts. NewBo, Czech Village, and the MedQuarter each bring their own charm, offering scenic trails, cozy cafes, and rich local history. Together, they make Cedar Rapids the perfect spot for a fall weekend escape.

I’m not a huge fan of the Marriott’s Residence Inn—call me spoiled—but the rooms at the one in Cedar Rapids feel old and in need of refreshing. On the plus side, it was spacious, and I appreciated the microwave, sitting area, large desk, and table. I was able to watch TV while my husband enjoyed some football. However, there’s a strange elevator door that creeped us both out. As for breakfast, it was practically non-existent; Steven had a couple of boiled eggs, and I settled for two cups of tea with honey since I wasn’t feeling great. We used about 20,000 points for our stay and got 3,000 points back when we spun the wheel at check-in. It’s more than enough for a quick overnight trip from Rock Island Arsenal. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).