Charles City is located in northeastern Iowa along the Cedar River. The city experiences a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Hydrology constituents are mainly centered around the Cedar River, which provides water for the city and surrounding areas. Outdoor recreation opportunities in Charles City include the Charles City Whitewater Park, which offers kayaking, canoeing, and tubing, as well as a variety of hiking and biking trails throughout the area. The town also hosts several annual events such as the Charles City Challenge, Charles City Art-a-Fest, and the Charles City BBQ Challenge, which showcase the community's active and welcoming spirit.