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About Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids has an estimated 2011 population of 127,905, making it the second largest city in Iowa. The city is named after the Cedar River.

Cedar Rapids is known as the City of Five Seasons; the traditional four seasons and a "fifth season" is "a time to enjoy" the other four.

Where to Stay

If you are visiting someone at Benefit Health East the following downtown hotels offer free shuttle service to the hospital:

  • Holiday Inn: 800-222-1212
  • The Marriott: 800-333-4545
  • Days Inn: 800-777-8989

Visitors of patients at Benefit Health West can receive complimentary shuttle services from:

  • The Clarion: 800-444-7373
  • Hawthorne Suites: 800-888-5757

When calling local hotels, be sure to ask about any special discounts provided for Benefit Health System patient families.

Where to Eat

The newly-remodeled Health Cafe is located on the first floor level of Benefit Health West and the cafeteria in Benefit Health East is an excellent option as well. Both dining facilities are open daily from 6:30 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Visitors are welcome to eat in our cafeterias anytime they are open. Hot meals are served according to the following schedule:

  • Breakfast: 6:30 - 10:00 a.m.
  • Lunch: 10:30 am - 1:30 p.m.
  • Dinner: 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

During those hours when hot meals are not served, cold plates, sandwiches, a salad bar, snacks and beverages are available.

In addition, the Benefit Health System Auxiliary operates the Koffee Kiosk in Benefit Health West on first floor from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Proceeds from Koffee Kiosk sales are used to improve patient experience and meet staff needs.

Several fast food and traditional restaurants are within walking distance from our Benefit Health East.

  • To the south: McDonald's, Taco Bell, Wendy's, Zio Johno's (Italian), Gringos (Mexican)
  • To the north: Arby's, KFC, Subway, Butterfly Cafe (family diner)

Benefit Health West visitors are in close proximity to a wide range of eateries as well.

  • To the south: IHOP, Texas Roadhouse, Applebee’s, Sushi House, Panera, Wendy’s
  • To the north: CiCi’s Pizza, Jimmy John’s, Little Caesars, Genghis Grill, Buffalo Wild Wings

What to Do

If you'll be in the Cedar Rapids area for an extended period, be sure to take advantage of some of our local entertainment and world-class cultural events.