Czech Village in Cedar Rapids in Linn County, Iowa — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
Welcome to Novak Plaza
Photographed by Jason Voigt, June 18, 2025
1. Welcome to Novak Plaza Marker
This plaza is named after Eileen (Krumm) Novak and Frank Novak. They were Cedar Rapids southwest-siders with Czech heritage who launched and built several successful businesses. They frequented the shops on 16th Ave also known as "The Avenue" here in Czech Village. Eileen and Frank represent the myriad of "mom and pop" businesses that have always made up this charming and historical commercial neighborhood and all those little stores and restaurants that keep things lively and unique throughout the center of Cedar Rapids.
Novak Plaza is made possible by the generous contribution of Mary Kay Novak McGrath in loving memory of her parents. Further assistance in development of the plaza comes from the Czech Village New Bohemia SSMID commission, the City of Cedar Rapids, and The District: Czech Village & New Bohemia. Lighting is courtesy of the IBEW/NECA group and ACME Electric.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce • Women.
Location. 41° 57.931′ N, 91° 39.633′ W. Marker is in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in Linn County. It is in
this page online
Regionally, this marker is in Eastern Iowa. It is also in the American Midwest and in the Corn Belt. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture and also the Louisiana Purchase.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Bohemian Commercial Historic District (within shouting distance of this marker); Kosek Bandstand (within shouting distance of this marker); Riverside Park (approx. Ό mile away); World War II Memorial (approx. 0.6 miles away); Oak Hill Neighborhood (approx. 0.6 miles away); The Quarry (approx. 0.6 miles away); Landfill History (approx. 0.6 miles away); Wastewater Plant (approx. 0.7 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Cedar Rapids.
Photographed by Jason Voigt, June 18, 2025
2. Welcome to Novak Plaza Marker
Marker is the one closest to the arch.
Credits. This page was last revised on July 17, 2025. It was originally submitted on July 17, 2025, by Jason Voigt of Glen Carbon, Illinois. This page has been viewed 135 times since then and 25 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on July 17, 2025, by Jason Voigt of Glen Carbon, Illinois.
