Brucemore, Southeast Iowa Travel Guide

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Explore Iowa's only National Trust Historic Site: Brucemore, a grand mansion and estate in Cedar Rapids, with tours, gardens, and rich history.

Brucemore is a 26-acre estate in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, featuring a Queen Anne-style mansion that was home to three prominent families from 1884 to 1981. Today, it's a National Trust Historic Site offering tours, gardens, and a glimpse into the lives of the Sinclairs, Douglases, and Halls.

A brief summary to Brucemore

2160 Linden Dr SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, 52403, US
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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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Brucemore.

Check the Brucemore website for tour schedules and special events before your visit.
Explore the gardens and grounds, which are free to visit and offer a peaceful retreat.
Wear comfortable shoes, as tours involve walking and standing.
Consider a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and stories of the mansion.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Terrace Hill Historic Site

Herbert Hoover National Historic Site

Dodge House-Historic General

Jesse James Historical Site

Plum Grove Historical Site

Explore Brucemore on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Brucemore, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Brucemore is located at 2160 Linden Dr SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403. From downtown Cedar Rapids, follow First Avenue (Business Hwy 151) southeast. Turn left onto Crescent Street, then left again onto Linden Drive. The entrance to Brucemore will be on your left. Parking is available on-site near the mansion. There is no cost for parking.
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 routes have stops within walking distance of Brucemore. A one-way fare is typically $1.25.
Walking

From the Wellington Heights neighborhood, Brucemore is easily accessible by foot. Head east on Linden Drive SE. The estate entrance will be on your left. Enjoy the scenery as you approach this historic landmark.

Discover more about Brucemore

Brucemore stands as a testament to Cedar Rapids' history, showcasing the lives of three influential families who shaped the region. Built by Caroline Sinclair between 1884 and 1886, the Queen Anne-style mansion, originally named 'Fairhome,' became a center for culture and the arts. The estate's name, Brucemore, originates from the Scottish moors of the Douglas family's ancestral home, who acquired the property in 1906. Later, the Hall family further enriched Brucemore's legacy.Each family left their mark on the 21-room mansion and its grounds. The Sinclairs established the estate as a symbol of Cedar Rapids' industrial growth. The Douglases expanded the property and added features like a guesthouse and formal gardens. The Halls, particularly Howard Hall, introduced whimsical elements like the Grizzly Bar and Tahitian Room in the basement.Today, Brucemore is a vibrant cultural hub, hosting events, tours, and educational programs. Visitors can explore the mansion, wander through the gardens, and learn about the families who called Brucemore home. The estate offers a unique glimpse into the past, preserving the stories of industrialists, philanthropists, and community leaders.