As the true heart of Eastern Iowa, our 2014 All-America City has world-class arts and culture, family friendly festivals throughout the year, an ever-growing shopping scene, fabulous restaurants, award-winning wineries and breweries, and endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Located just 70 miles from the Mississippi River in Eastern Iowa, Cedar Rapids is positioned conveniently and centrally between six of the Midwest’s major metropolitan areas: Chicago, Kansas City, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, Omaha, and St.