Cedar Rapids is a lively mid‑sized river city with a strong arts and dining scene, craft breweries, riverfront trails and regular festivals — a comfortable, interesting base for multi‑week assignments where you’re unlikely to get bored. It combines affordable living, solid healthcare options and walkable neighborhoods that make settling in easy.
For weekend variety, nearby Iowa City (University of Iowa — arts, nightlife and medical centers) and Waterloo offer extra dining, music and cultural events within about an hour’s drive.