TOP 6 THINGS TO DO IN MARION, IOWA
There’s so many things to do in Marion, and much to see. Did you know that Marion was the home of Keith Vawter, the founder of the Chautauqua Circuit in Colorado? This popular adult education movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries encouraged seniors to continue learning as they aged.
Speaking of learning, Marion’s new Public Library is a “community hub” and milestone in the revitalization of the city’s Uptown historic business district. The library opened in early November 2022 and as Mayor Nick AbouAssaly put it, “I think this library will be a model for all libraries in the future. It’s no longer a warehouse for books, but an active place for all types of learning and backgrounds and socioeconomic levels. The library is a place where community happens.”
Marion’s a shopper’s heaven with more than 60 boutiques, restaurants, galleries and entertainment venues. Wear a good pair of walking shoes and enjoy!
Also be sure to make your way to Lowe Park, a hidden gem that’s just a short drive from Uptown Marion. Here, you’ll find ongoing art exhibits, and the newly dedicated, outdoor Klopfenstein Amphitheater for the Performing Arts. Plus, it’s center of senior adult activities, with a full schedule of classes and fun things to do, including Geri-Fit/Tai Chi fitness, bingo, cards, line dancing and more!
Like gardening? The Lowe Park Greenhouse is used as a classroom for educational workshops, growing plants for the Lowe Park demonstration gardens, the Linn County Master Gardener Plant Sale, flowers for the Marion Parks Department, and so much more.
How about greens of another kind? Play a game of golf or two on one of the top rated courses in Mario. Hunters Ridge has 18 holes of bent grass championship caliber golf at the edge of Cedar Rapids/ Marion community.
Undoubtedly, Marion is a great place to retire. With all that the city—and Summit Pointe—offers, these just may be the best years of your life!
