Groups meeting in Eastern Iowa’s meetings-friendly cities can easily create an inspiring event by adding a local arts experience to the agenda.
From tours that celebrate the written word and hands-on classes in glassmaking and calligraphy, to amazing theaters and museums that double as off-site venues for memorable group gatherings, the arts are palpable in this lively region.
Cedar Rapids
A great arts outing in Cedar Rapids features a tour of the Grant Wood Studio, where in 1930 the artist painted the iconic American Gothic, followed by a reception at the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, which houses the largest Grant Wood collection in the world.
“This is a signature Cedar Rapids experience and can be made quirky with backdrops and costumes so attendees could pose and re-create the famous painting,” said Julie Stow, director of meetings and conventions for GO Cedar Rapids.
It’s also a convenient experience, as several group-friendly properties are located within walking distance, including the 267-room DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cedar Rapids Convention Complex, which boasts 80,000 square feet of meeting and banquet space.
“Groups of all sizes will also enjoy a private reception and behind-the-scenes tour of Cedar Rapids’ crown jewel, the historic and beautifully restored Paramount Theatre, before a performance,” said Stow, who cited a calendar filled with Broadway shows, Orchestra Iowa performances and nationally touring concerts. “This is very customizable for groups, and if dates don’t match with touring shows, we can connect you with amazing local talent.”
One more fun arts idea is a hands-on workshop at The Ceramics Center, which also has a mobile unit for those groups that can’t visit the studio.
“Work in glass or clay to create a unique piece themed for your group,” Stow said.
Dubuque
The Dubuque Museum of Art, situated in the heart of downtown within walking distance of many meetings-friendly hotels, is a must-visit for groups seeking an intriguing arts outing.
Attendees can explore the museum, which showcases over 2,200 artworks including pieces by Grant Wood, Salvador Dali and many more.
“Its two floors of flowing exhibits make it a unique location for evening receptions for up to 200 people,” said Julie Kronlage, vice president of sales for the Dubuque Area CVB.
Groups with attendees who prefer to do their own painting can check out Pinot’s Palette, a paint-and-sip studio that hosts teambuilding events and private parties.
“Groups of up to 50 will enjoy their historic building in downtown Dubuque while working together to create beautiful paintings,” Kronlage said.
An excellent idea for groups that would like to get outside for an inspiring stroll is a visit to Art on the River, a collection of works created by artists from across the country that is on display along the Mississippi River.
“See, touch and feel these works of art as you walk down the beautiful Mississippi Riverwalk,” Kronlage said. “End your time with a reception in the beautiful Alliant Energy Amphitheater at the Star Brewery with live music, food and networking.”
Iowa City/Coralville Area
Since 1972, the Hancher Auditorium has been a favorite arts facility at the Iowa City-based University of Iowa. A revitalized Hancher, which opened in September 2016 after eight years of flood recovery, features a lineup of performances ranging from orchestra and dance to Broadway productions.
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“The beautiful new space offers flexible meeting space and fantastic views of the Iowa River,” said Lyndsey Kent, director of sales for the Iowa City/Coralville Area CVB. “Both small and large groups can meet in this bright open space.”
Iowa City is also a literary hot spot, and the Iowa Avenue and Northside Marketplace Literary walks celebrate writers with ties to Iowa.
According to Kent, both walks feature a series of bronze relief panels that highlight the words of more than 85 authors, including several Pulitzer Prize winners.
“Located in the hub of downtown Iowa City, a UNESCO City of Literature, this is a terrific option for an off-site activity while groups are visiting town,” Kent said. “A guide can also be coordinated.”
And at FilmScene, a 67-seat nonprofit cinema that accommodates private events, groups will find comfortable seating and a cafe that serves beer, wine, coffee and screens traditional movie favorites.
“Located in Iowa City’s pedestrian mall, it also hosts movie showings on the building’s rooftop in the warmer months,” Kent explained. “FilmScene provides a unique and memorable experience that groups will sincerely enjoy as a complement to their stay.”
Quad Cities
At Figge Art Museum in Davenport, groups can get lost in artworks from around the world within the museum’s various permanent and traveling art exhibits.
“The docents are great at the Figge Art Museum,” said Jessica Waytenick, public relations and marketing manager for the Quad Cities CVB. “They know so much about the artwork and the museum building, which was designed by famous architect David Chipperfield.”
The museum also customizes tours based on each group’s timeframe, accommodates receptions and dinners, and holds classes, including a popular one in basic calligraphy.
Also in Davenport is the new Studio Showroom and Tour Center dedicated to late artist Isabel Bloom, who studied with Grant Wood. Here, groups can watch artists create handcrafted sculptures.
“It’s beautiful—from the small store they had there to what it is now is amazing,” Waytenick said. “Going on the tour really shows the craftsmanship and creativity. It’s fun to watch the artists at work, and to be able to ask them questions directly.”
At Hot Glass in downtown Davenport, groups can book a teambuilding event for up to 12 attendees during which they will get one-on-one instruction before creating a piece of glass art to take home.
Waterloo
In Waterloo, hungry groups can break bread at Galleria de Paco, where meals are served under a replica of the Sistine Chapel ceiling.
“Renowned artist Paco Rosic re-created Michelangelo’s masterpiece using 5,200 cans of Krylon spray paint,” said Beth Keeney, marketing and communications director for the Waterloo CVB. “The food, the service and the view above while dining is truly a unique experience.”
The Waterloo Center for the Arts, another group-friendly option, presents permanent and traveling exhibits by regional and international artists.
“The museum is home to the largest public collection of Haitian art in the world, plus they have classes and workshops available for groups,” Keeney said.
And at the Waterloo Community Playhouse/Black Hawk Children’s Theatre, groups will find a lineup of musicals and holiday shows to enjoy when meeting in town.
“This 100-year-old community theater continues to offer some of the best live shows year after year,” Keeney said. “Sit back, relax and enjoy an outstanding performance.”
