r/cedarrapids • u/WannaUnicorn • 14h ago
r/cedarrapids • u/BleedBlackAndOldGold • Jan 22 '26
Guide: Making Friends in Cedar Rapids
(Guide brought to you by an extremely cold wine-induced winter night in! Special thanks to Grammarly and too much time on my hands.)
I’ve noticed a lot of posts lately from folks asking how to make friends around here. Completely understandable. Nobody really prepares you for that part once you’re out of school. Back then, you had classes, clubs, sports… all those built‑in ways to meet people without trying. Adulthood doesn’t come with that.
I’ve been there myself. When you’re young and just getting started, you don’t always have kids or a routine, and sometimes you haven’t even had time to figure out what your interests actually are. Again, a lot of variables, and none of them make it easy.
That said, I’m genuinely excited to see more people moving into the Cedar Rapids area. This place is highly underrated. Hard to go wrong with a community that keeps growing while still feeling approachable. For what it’s worth, I’m an Iowa transplant myself. It took some time, but I’ve built a community here that fits me perfectly. At this point I don’t really want to leave. So I figured I’d put together a simple guide — nothing fancy, just what’s worked for me and others I know.
One more thing worth mentioning before getting into the suggestions: money can be a real roadblock when you’re young or just starting out. Completely understandable. Not everyone has the budget for memberships or weekly outings. The good news is that there are plenty of low‑cost ways to meet people here. Sometimes you don’t need to spend anything at all.
Speaking of which, let’s dive into it!
1. Find where people gather for the thing you already like
It sounds almost too simple, but it works. If you show up somewhere built around an interest you already have, you’re walking in with two advantages:
- You share a common interest
- Everyone there had enough motivation to get up and go do that thing
Those two pieces take a lot of pressure off. Commonalities are a great bonding mechanism. You don’t have to force anything or pretend to be someone you’re not. Just be genuine. People pick up on that more than you’d think.
2. Show up to low‑pressure, low‑cost community events
Cedar Rapids has a surprising number of casual events where you can just show up, walk around, and talk to people if it feels right. Farmers' markets, art nights, small festivals, library events — nothing high‑stakes. You’re not committing to anything, and you’re not stuck if the vibe isn’t for you. It’s an easy way to get a feel for the community and meet people who are also out and about.
Another option that works surprisingly well is group fitness classes. Yoga, CrossFit, Orange Theory, Zumba — anything where people are doing the same workout together. They can get a little spendy depending on the place, so it’s not always the cheapest route, but the social side has it's positives. It’s a lot easier to meet people in a class setting than in the general gym area, where everyone’s doing their own thing with headphones in.
3. Volunteer for something you actually care about
Volunteering is one of the easiest ways to meet people who share your values. You’re all working toward the same goal, which takes a lot of the awkwardness out of starting conversations. Plus, most organizations are happy to have extra hands, and it doesn’t cost anything. It’s a win all around.
4. Join hobby groups, meetups, or casual leagues
You don’t need to be an expert at anything. Most groups around here are pretty welcoming to beginners. Whether it’s board games, running, hiking, crafting, or rec‑league sports, the whole point is to show up and have fun. And again, you’re walking in with a built‑in common interest, which makes things a lot easier.
Sometimes that means getting a little outside your comfort zone. Not in a dramatic way — just enough to try something new or explore a hobby you’ve been curious about. You never know what’s going to click until you give it a shot, and half the people you meet are probably trying something new themselves.
5. Start small conversations when you’re already out
You don’t have to launch into a full conversation with a stranger. A quick comment about the weather, the line, the event, or whatever’s happening around you is enough. If the other person wants to talk, they’ll take it from there. If not, no harm done. It’s a low‑pressure way to practice being open without forcing anything.
6. Follow up without overthinking it
If you meet someone you click with, send a quick message or suggest meeting up again. Nothing formal. Something like, “Hey, it was fun talking the other day — want to check out ___ sometime?” Most people appreciate the initiative. And if they’re not interested, that’s okay. You’re not starting from zero; you’re building momentum.
7. Don’t underestimate consistency
You don’t have to be everywhere all the time. Just pick one or two things you enjoy and show up regularly. Familiar faces turn into casual conversations, and casual conversations turn into friendships. It’s slow, but it works. And it’s worth saying out loud: friendships are relationships. Just like any relationship, they take some work, time, and investment. Not in a heavy or overwhelming way — just enough to show you care and that you’re willing to show up. That effort goes a long way
Starter List of Activities in the Cedar Rapids Area (in no particular order)
- Join employer networking groups (ENGs/ERGs/BRGs/JEDIs/DEIBs, etc.) and extracurriculars that match your interests
- Newbo City Market Events - Bingo, Yoga, Community Events, Cooking Classes
- Volunteering with the CR Farmers Market
- ImpactCR - Connect and grow with other like-minded young professionals
- Kirkwood Hobby Classes
- Cedar Rapids Curling - Offers both single and session classes
- Ultimate Frisbee - Not sure if they're still active, tbh.
- CR Library Events
- MeetUp - Various Events
- CR Book Club
- Improv classes! - Great way to meet people and become better at networking, small talk, and confidence
- TCR Classes
- Drop-in Play: Tennis & Pickleball
- Pickle Palace Leagues
- Join a League with Cedar Rapids Sport & Social Club as a Free Agent
- (Volleyball) Volley's Leagues
- (Volleyball) Sandlot Leagues
- CR Parks & Rec Softball
- CR Parks & Rec Program list - Just to save you a click!
- CR metro YMCA Programs and Classes - Includes Marion YMCA
- First Turn Games - Get your nerd on with TCG, Mini-fig, and boardgame nights and competitions
- Browse Facebook Events - I understand the hate, and that not everyone has and uses FB. However, the Events section is great for finding local happenings.
- Bicycle Rides organized by The Sag Wagon
- Join a Bowling League
- Join a Whiskey Club
- Join a Running Club
- Join the Disc Golf community
- Learn to dance: TC Dance - Ballroom & Social styles
- Learn to dance: Ballroom of Eastern Iowa - Ballroom & Social styles
- Learn to dance: Dance Academy - More formal styles (Jazz, Tap, Ballet)
Remember, Google can be your friend in this situation. Cedar Rapids is a busy, active city when you put in a little bit of effort to see what’s out there. There’s more going on than most people realize once you start looking. Maybe I'll see you around!
Bonus Read: My previous comment for a list of things to do
r/cedarrapids • u/weedthepeople_iowa • 19m ago
Two faced politician sells out community
READ full article…
She has been my “representative” in the 2nd district. All I got was these data centers…
https://iowaindependentnews.com/
elections/hinson-lauds-local-decisions-on-data-centers-but-voted-in-house-against-state-regulation/?utm_source=chatgpt.comm
r/cedarrapids • u/livelyclown • 13h ago
This Saturday 7PM
THE HALLOWEEN PARADE OF CEDAR RAPIDS!! It will not be along the bridge but instead along the DETOUR OF DEATH!!
Will you be able to hear the Witch?
r/cedarrapids • u/Cardiologist3mpty138 • 10h ago
Self defense/martial arts locations?
Hello. I’m a dude in my mid 20s who’s recently gotten interested in martial arts and overall self defense. I’m really wanting to learn how to defend myself now that I’m on my own for the first time. Just looking for any suggestions for like private instructors or other types of classes. Willing to drive to Iowa City if necessary. Thanks.
r/cedarrapids • u/DestroyerZoneBerg • 14h ago
I'm On Ice Arena Venue Works Bailout
What's the word on the $1 Million dollar bailout for Venue Works?
r/cedarrapids • u/Malaguy420 • 13h ago
Iowa 55-hour FilmSprint - Cedar Rapids Independent Filmmakers / Cedar Rapids Independent Film Festival
crifm.orgCedar Rapids-area filmmakers - check this out! Other places have done 48 hour film races, but I like the idea of one in our own backyard, not to mention having a few extra hours. I've talked to a handful of my filmmaker friends who are interested, and the organizers are hosting a mixer on Thursday for people who want to learn more and join a team. I'll be there for sure!
Des Moines gets all the attention for Iowa filmmaking, but let's show what the Corridor, and eastern Iowa can do!
r/cedarrapids • u/Few-Watercress-6362 • 20h ago
iso odd jobs!
hi ! newly single mom here who unexpectedly lost her job and looking to make some money to cover diapers and groceries while i navigate the awful job market here .
i have experience in healthcare for the last 10 years , some construction/labor experience , comfortable with childcare and domestic labor (cleaning, laundry, etc.)
tia for anyone who reaches out or has suggestions for me !
r/cedarrapids • u/Schrodingerscat6 • 16h ago
Football or Soccer fields with lights
Hi, are there any fields that are lit on week night evenings for public use or available for use where a community member can pay for lights for a pick up game? Could also use the outfield of a baseball diamond. I'm new to the area and have lived elsewhere where there have been some public fields lit for use. Thank you!
r/cedarrapids • u/Ok-Researcher-6461 • 11h ago
Trash fees for Hiawatha
Moved three months ago from CR to Hiawatha, there’s no Hiawatha page I can find so I’ll post this here and welcome a redirect, how is ABC Disposal allowed to charge me $60+ a month for once a week pickup when my water bill is almost half that and my internet bill is just under that? Can I tell them to shove their monopoly up their ass and drive my trash cans to the county site instead? This is insane.
r/cedarrapids • u/FutureEngineers • 22h ago
Cedar Rapids Middle & High Schools: NASA is calling for student tech ideas!
NASA is calling for student tech ideas! 6th-12th-grade educators & students affiliated with U.S. schools are invited to enter the NASA TechRise Student Challenge. Winning teams receive funds to build an experiment and a spot on a NASA-sponsored test flight: https://www.futureengineers.org/nasatechrise
r/cedarrapids • u/dkivlighan • 1d ago
Free online counseling for adults throughout Iowa (University of Iowa)
I help direct the University of Iowa's Telepsychology Training Clinic, and we're currently accepting new clients for completely free online counseling.
Our supervised doctoral student counselors help people dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, stress, and other challenges. Spanish-speaking counselors are also available.
Services are for Iowa residents age 18+ who aren't currently seeing another counselor and have internet/video access.
Interested? Email [scheduling@uitptc.com](mailto:scheduling@uitptc.com) or call (319) 535-0437.
More information is available on the Telepsychology Training Clinic website.
Please share with anyone who might benefit!
r/cedarrapids • u/SnooPredictions138 • 21h ago
Retreat on 6th apartments? Or other recommendations?
Are these safe, clean? Or should I avoid these? Female looking for an apartment as close to $1000 as possible. Recommendations?
r/cedarrapids • u/cantrememberjack • 1d ago
MISSING: David Buresh, 65
kcrg.comDavid Buresh was last seen on Tues, 10/13.
- David is 65 and has mobility issues due to age, alcohol abuse, and a hunched back
- He left his home on a bike sometime Tuesday night 10/13 or Wednesday 10/14
- He was traveling to the Casey's on Edgewood Rd near SW Target via the Union Pacific Beverly railyard area
- David's bike was found broken down and chained to a dumpster in the railyard
Please contact the Linn County Sheriff's Office if you have any information.
r/cedarrapids • u/biglenny26 • 21h ago
PRO WRESTLING IN WATERLOO THIS SATURDAY! FEATURING A DOG COLLAR MATCH
r/cedarrapids • u/Responsible_Way_2838 • 1d ago
Gas stations running out of gas?
Has anyone else noticed gas stations being out of gas? I went to two different Caseys and both were out.
r/cedarrapids • u/Local-Future7982 • 1d ago
CRCSD Lunch Ladies
I’m Wondering on what Brand of burgers are used in the School district. My fiancé. And I both graduated from the school district and we always talk about how much we loved the burgers that they severed us during lunch we are hoping to find they or something similar for at home
r/cedarrapids • u/ExplanationThink3552 • 1d ago
TY cedar rapids!
For all your help, suggestions and support for my mediacom problems! All fixed and love your cr!!!!
r/cedarrapids • u/Hour-Cup-5904 • 1d ago
Best Criminal Defense Attorney for Firearms case? Recommendations?
r/cedarrapids • u/Horse-Posse1837 • 2d ago
That's a Wrap: We Finished Filming
galleryWe finished primary filming in and around Cedar Rapids last week for The Stolen Pony Posse.
It was a great time shooting this short film in CR.
What we're proudest of regarding this production is the focus on local talent and locations. We're employing local cast and crew and making The Stolen Pony Posse WITHOUT state tax incentives. We're not here for the money. We're here for the movie. Telling this story about this place with the people who call it home is what it's all about.
We'll keep this community updated as we move into post-production and share more about the real-life stories that inspired the film.
r/cedarrapids • u/BoxOne3392 • 1d ago
Looking for a good apartment in Cedar Rapids
Hey everyone! I’m relocating to Cedar Rapids for work and looking for a one-bedroom apartment with a budget of around $1,300/month.
I’m currently considering Oak Hill Apartments and NewBo Lofts, but I’d love to hear from people who live there or have lived there recently.
How is the management, maintenance, noise level, and overall living experience at these places? Would you recommend either one, or is there another apartment complex you’d recommend in my budget?
Any advice or honest experiences would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
r/cedarrapids • u/Apprehensive_Bowl_58 • 2d ago
Hair salons
So Im curious on what the going rate of salons are right now. I am a mom of 2 and have neglected getting my hair done for a while now and am nervous to even go sit in a chair. What is everyone's go to salons here and what should I expect price wise for a cut and ither all over color, highlights, or both. Might help with the anxiety I have about it kind of getting an idea of what to expect.
r/cedarrapids • u/WannaUnicorn • 2d ago
Please support low-cost spay/neuter clinic fundraiser!
📣The call for donations was heard! We are honored to be recipients of the items offered to support SNIP Iowa.
🐾 The SNIP Iowa Rummage Sale will be
* Thurday, October 22nd from 8:00am to 5:00pm
* Friday, October 23rd from 8:00am to 5:00pm
* Saturday, October 24th 8:00am to Noon
1850 Blairs Ferry Rd NE
Next to Blairs Ferry Pet Hospital
👍All proceeds will go toward opening the SNIP Iowa low-cost spay/neuter clinic in Cedar Rapids, Ia. Proceeds will be used to purchase medical equipment and supplies needed to perform life changing procedures.
Please share!
r/cedarrapids • u/TuttiFlutiePanist • 2d ago
Collins Employees - How do you manage family calendars?
My spouse works at Collins; I do not. My personal email/calendar have been in the Google ecosystem for years. However, when Collins switched from Google to Microsoft a few years ago, it threw a huge wrench in our family's calendar management because apparently Collins does not allow integration with Google calendar, even if it's only one way. So rather than having a shared family calendar we both can see, I'm forced to invite my spouse to every. single. event. It seems there should be an easy way to do a one-time integration, rather than me have to send an invitation for each event.
How do you handle family calendars between tech ecosystems?