Elisabeth & Manny
Things To Do
Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery
A winery and distillery by day and our ceremony and reception venue by night! Check this beautiful space out during your free time for food, drinks, fresh air, and beautiful views! Note: Cedar Ridge Winery requests that wedding guests do not arrive before 5:00 pm for the Ceremony as they will be observing regular business hours.
Reds Alehouse
A Hottel family favorite with 18 tap beers, fancy martinis, and 2 for 1 Happy Hour from 4-6 daily. Elisabeth used to be a hostess here many years ago!
Squire Point Trail
Take a walk in Elisabeth's old shoes. Squire Point trail is deep into the woods in the Hottel's old backyard. At 25 minutes away from Hotel at Kirkwood Center, it is more of a time commitment. However, it's quite close to Red's Alehouse, which would make for a refreshing stop on the way back from a long hike!
Palisades-Kepler State Park
For our more adventurous guests, take a hike through the woods and bluffs. Iowa is absolutely beautiful and green in all directions in August. Enjoy the fresh air and don't forget to bring some water!
American Gothic Barn
We doubt you have time to drive to the Art Institute of Chicago to see the original American Gothic, so we recommend driving by this replica. Painted by a local art teacher, Mark Benesh, commissioned by the barn's owner, it is on the owner's private property. The adjacent drive is actually the owner's driveway, so take care in passing by!
Old Capitol
Visit Iowa's Old Capitol in downtown Iowa City. While downtown, you can visit dozens of restaurants, bars, and shops, while exploring the University of Iowa's campus.
Kinnick Stadium
Kinnick Stadium's namesake, Nile Kinnick, was a hero both on the football field and in the United States Navy. As winner of the 1939 Heisman trophy and a man who lost his life in a training flight in World War II, his story is dear to Hawkeye fans. Kinnick Stadium's newest tradition is the nationally known 'Iowa Wave' which takes place after the first quarter of each home game. The entire crowd stands to face and wave to the children fighting cancer at Stead Family Children's Hospital, whose windows face the field.
Lion Bridge Brewing Co.
One of the Hottel family's favorite spots and just 15 minutes away from our venue. A 10-barrel brewery with great food, drinks, and atmosphere in a city setting.
Cedar Rapids Museum of Art
Remember American Gothic? Its artist, Grant Wood, was born and raised in Iowa and went to high school in Cedar Rapids. Check out the Grant Wood Studio and the Exhibit: 125 Masterworks from the Collection, which will include some of his work!
Czech Village
Visit Czech Village for a quaint shopping experience. Every Saturday and Sunday the NewBo City Market invites guest vendors into the Market. There's also a Bike Share Program & Scooters with the VeoRide app to help you explore the village with ease and style.