National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

The National Czech & Slovak Museum in Cedar Rapids is located in a gorgeous building, which was actually moved from a different spot due to a massive flood a few years ago. Inside, you'll get a great look into the cultural history of the Czech and Slovak people both in their native homeland, as well as in America. We spent about an hour here, but if this is a culture you are a part of or interested in, you could probably spend about 2-3 hours.

It should also be noted that this museum has a National Park Passport Cancellation Stamp for the Silos and Smokestacks National Heritage Area.

DoubleTree by Hilton Des Moines Airport

We had a flight cancellation at the Des Moines Airport and needed a hotel for just 1 night near the airport. We decided to go with the DoubleTree at the Des Moines Airport, and we were glad we did. As soon as we called to make a reservation, they sent the airport shuttle driver over and she was there within 5 minutes to come get us. They even offered to take us anywhere in the area with the shuttle, although we did not take advantage of that perk.

The staff was very friendly at check-in, and as always, they provided delicious cookies for us and drink coupons for the restaurant in the hotel. At check-out at 5 AM, the front desk clerk was just as friendly and we enjoyed chatting with him while we waited a few minutes for our airport shuttle, which we had scheduled the night before.

The room itself was very clean and large. The bed was very comfortable and the wi-fi connection was fast. We ate dinner at the restaurant in the hotel, Johnny's Steakhouse, that night, and it was delicious as well. We'd definitely recommend this hotel to anyone staying in the area, or who just need a quick airport hotel booking due to flight cancellations.

Address: 6800 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA 50321
Wifi: Free
Parking: Free
Restaurant: Yes
Bar/Lounge: Yes
Smoking: Non-smoking
Hidden Fees: None
Free Breakfast: No

James T. Kirk Future Birthplace

For any true Star Trek fan, you'll know that Captain James T. Kirk will be born in Riverside, IA in the year 2228. To honor this future fictional character, the town has erected a monument in his honor, commemorating the future birthplace of the original Star Trek captain.

It can be a little bit difficult to find. The address to put into your GPS is 51 West 1st Street, Riverside, IA 52327 (Note: This is near where West 1st Street intersects with North Glasgow Street). You'll find here a barber shop painted yellow, and to the side, a stone path. Follow that path to behind that building and you'll find the monument. 

The Voyage Home Museum

The Voyage Home Museum is mostly dedicated to the world of Star Trek, although there is some history on the town of Riverside, IA as well. Here, you'll find lots of Star Trek memorabilia, which for any fan of the series, will be a great experience. In addition, you'll find a "car sized" replica of the Enterprise from the original series in the parking lot.

The museum is free of charge to walk though, and you won't spend more than 20 minutes or so here. Make sure to go into the bathroom and sit on the toilet. When doing so, look ahead of you, and it'll make you feel as if you are in the captain's seat on the Enterprise. Strange, yes. But great nonetheless! And apparently William Shatner loved it when he visited according to the woman who was working there.