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Brucemore: A Cedar Rapids Landmark

Explore a century of history and grandeur at Brucemore, Cedar Rapids' iconic Queen Anne mansion and National Trust Historic Site.

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Brucemore is a 26-acre estate in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, featuring a Queen Anne-style mansion that was home to three prominent families. Today, it stands as a National Trust Historic Site, offering tours and events that explore the history, architecture, and cultural significance of this grand estate.

A brief summary to Brucemore

  • Wednesday 10 am-3 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-3 pm
  • Friday 10 am-3 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-3 pm
  • Sunday 1 pm-3 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Brucemore website for seasonal hours, special events, and tour schedules, as they vary throughout the year.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance, especially for guided tours, as entry times are limited and can sell out.
  • Allow ample time to explore the 26-acre grounds and gardens, which are free to visit during grounds hours.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as tours involve substantial walking and standing.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Brucemore is located at 2160 Linden Dr SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403. From downtown Cedar Rapids, head east on 1st Avenue SE. Turn right onto Linden Drive SE. The entrance to Brucemore will be on your right. Free parking is available on the estate near the Carriage House and the mansion. Some GPS systems may direct you to the wrong gate, so follow the signs on Linden Drive.

  • Public Transport

    Cedar Rapids Transit provides bus service throughout the city. Check the Cedar Rapids Transit website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. Several bus routes have stops near Brucemore. From the Ground Transportation Center in downtown Cedar Rapids, take a bus that services the Linden Drive area. A single ride fare is $1.25.

  • Walking

    From the Wellington Heights neighborhood, Brucemore is easily accessible by foot. Head southeast on Linden Drive. The entrance to Brucemore will be on your right. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the residential area.

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Discover more about Brucemore

Brucemore, once known as the "grandest house west of Chicago," is a captivating journey through Cedar Rapids' history. Built between 1884 and 1886 by Caroline Sinclair, the estate was later home to the Douglas and Hall families, each leaving their unique mark on the property. The 21-room Queen Anne mansion showcases a blend of architectural styles and interior designs, reflecting the tastes and lifestyles of its former residents. The estate's name, Brucemore, originates from the Scottish heritage of George Bruce Douglas, who renamed the property after purchasing it in 1906. Over the years, Brucemore has evolved from a family home into a center for culture and the arts, hosting various events and programs throughout the year. Visitors can explore the mansion's unique features, such as the 1929 Skinner player pipe organ, the Grant Wood Sleeping Porch, and the whimsical Tahitian Room. Today, Brucemore is preserved by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and Brucemore, Inc., offering guided tours, self-guided explorations, and access to the historic grounds. The estate's 26 acres include formal gardens, an orchard, and a serene woodland section, providing a glimpse into the lives of the families who shaped Cedar Rapids' industrial and cultural landscape.

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