Cedar Rapids has been residence to famous figures including the Wright Brothers Orville and Wilbur Wright who built and flew the first airplane. History is reflected at Ushers Ferry Historic Village where visitors can take a step back in time to a small Iowa town 100 years ago. Located on a beautiful ten acre site in Seminole Valley, in northeast Cedar Rapids, the Historic Village is a showcase of how early Iowans lived before such conveniences as electricity or indoor plumbing.

Visitors can also capture the essence of Cedar Rapids history through areas composed of ethnic businesses and historical buildings, which also helps to maintain the city's Czech heritage. As well as the Czech Village, Cedar Rapids is home to National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library. In 2003, the African-American Historical Museum and Cultural Center of Iowa opened its doors. Cedar Rapids is also home to the historical 26 acre Brucemore Estate, on which sits a 21-room mansion.