Cedar Rapids, Iowa is a hidden gem for sports lovers who want to explore the history of their favorite games. From small local events to larger national competitions, this city has something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to uncover sporting heritage while experiencing the cozy and quaint way of life in Cedar Rapids.
The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library (1400 Inspiration Pl SW) showcases not only Czechoslovakian culture but also an important piece of baseball history. The museums One League exhibit highlights womens barnstorming teams from 18901935 that played both male and female teams across America. The exhibit celebrates pioneer ballplayers such as Maud Nelson, Jackie Mitchell, and Babe Didrikson Zaharias.
If youre interested in college basketball history, head over to CarverHawkeye Arena at the University of Iowa (1 Elliot Dr). This arena once hosted one of the most famous college basketball games ever played Michigan vs Indiana on March 8th, 1976 which was watched by more than 35 million viewers nationwide via TV broadcast.
For racing enthusiasts, visit Hawkeye Downs Speedway Expo Center (44006th St SW). This historic track has been staging races since its opening day back on June 18th 1949 with midget car race drivers like Dave Kneisel becoming legendary heroes among locals.
No tour through Cedar Rapids sports legacy would be complete without visiting Veterans Memorial Stadium (950 Rockford Rd SW), where minor league baseball team Cedar Rapids Kernels play their home games. One legendary former player is Harmon Killer Killebrew who launched his career playing here before going on to become Minnesota Twins HallofFamer along with Rod Carew.
Make sure you stop at NewBo City Market (1100 3rd St SE) which is housed in a former manufacturing plant and serves as an indoor marketplace for local farmers, food vendors, artists, and craftspeople. There are several murals showcasing the history of Cedar Rapids sports along with exhibits highlighting its famous sporting heroes.
Cedar Rapids offers much to explore when it comes to historic sporting events. Its a city that loves its sport and celebrates them at every turn. Take your time exploring each unique venue while discovering more about the friendly, vibrant people who make this place so special.
Websites:
National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library: https://www.ncsml.org/
CarverHawkeye Arena: https://hawkeyesports.com/facilities/carverhawkeyearena/
Hawkeye Downs Speedway Expo Center:https://hawkeyedowns.org/
Veterans Memorial Stadium : https://www.milb.com/cedarrapids
NewBo City Market :https://newbocitymarket.org/
Twitter usernames:
National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library: @NCSML
CarverHawkeye Arena:@CarverHawkeye
Hawkeye Downs Speedway Expo Center:@hdspeedwayexpo
Veterans Memorial Stadium:@CRKernels
NewBo City Market:@NewBoCityMarket
1400 Inspiration Pl
Sw, IA
United States
1 Elliot Dr
Cedar Rapids, IA
United States
null 44006Th St
Sw, IA
United States
950 Rockford Rd
Sw, IA
United States
1100 3Rd St
Se, IA
United States