Mount Vernon and Lisbon â two towns with a shared culture of hospitality. Our combined strengths include distinctive, nationally recognized restaurants, a celebrated private college, art galleries and studios, antiques, specialty shops and quaint bed-and-breakfast inns. - While youâre here, visit our four registered National Historic Districts, including the entire Cornell College campus, the downtown shopping areas in both communities and the Ash Park neighborhood of Victorian homes. Attend one of our many festivals, concerts or sporting events, tour the History Center in Lisbon, or come simply to enjoy the small-town charm. - Located on Highways 30 and 1, Mount Vernon and Lisbon are just minutes from both Cedar Rapids and Iowa City.