Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Waterloo, Iowa. #Top Attractions

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Planning on a visit to Waterloo, Iowa, for your holiday? For the best things to do in Waterloo, Iowa, and the coolest places to visit in Waterloo, Iowa. Scroll down for our top travel recommendations in Waterloo, Iowa. Wondrous Drifter is a cutting-edge, Web 3.0 travel startup that aspires to change the world.

Art Museum at Waterloo Center for the Arts

Art Museum at Waterloo Center for the Arts, Waterloo, Iowa
Art Museum at Waterloo Center for the Arts is one of the best places to go in Waterloo, Iowa

Do you enjoy looking at art from different countries? If you’re looking to have a good time, then look no further than this establishment!

They have one of the most extensive Haitian art collections in the country, so you can learn about the country’s history and culture!

In addition to American Art, Midwestern Art, and International Folk Art, Waterloo Center for the Arts gathers a broad array of artwork from across the world for a unique educational, and exciting experience!

Mexican Folk Art is one of their most popular collections, and it’s on exhibit for everybody to see.

Their goal is to present visitors with a culturally varied environment through their carefully selected and curated collection of displays and exhibitions.

Various creative media, such as painting, ceramics, digital arts, and more, are taught in workshops and programs open to anybody over the age of three.

This museum, located in the heart of Waterloo, is a must-see for history buffs.

Address: 225 Commercial Street Waterloo, Iowa 50701-1313

Bluedorn Science Imaginarium

Bluedorn Science Imaginarium, Waterloo, Iowa

Bluedorn Science Imaginarium is one of the best places to go in Waterloo, Iowa

The Bluedorn Science Imaginarium is one of the best things to do in  Iowa.

This scientific museum, also known as the “Carl A. and Peggy J. Bluedorn Science Imaginarium,” is packed with things to learn and see!

The museum, part of the Grout Museum District, was founded in response to a lack of science activities at the Grout Museum of History & Science.

The Carl A. and Peggy J. Bluedorn Scientific Imaginarium, which opened in 1993.

It is a children’s science museum with hands-on, interactive displays on light, electricity, gases, sound, momentum, and liquids.

This interactive scientific center takes you on a three-floor educational tour, showing how vital science is in our daily lives!

Younger viewers will be captivated and intrigued by the numerous displays demonstrating science’s wonders.

With 91 hands-on exhibits and displays, this facility will leave you with unforgettable memories and experiences.

Bluedorn Science Imaginarium has been helping the community of Iowa by offering a playground for both children’s and adults’ imaginations!

A place for you to visit no matter what age you are, you’ll surely have fun!

Address: 322 Washington St, Waterloo, IA 50701, United States

Cadillac XBC

Cadillac XBC, Waterloo, Iowa

Cadillac XBC is one of the best places to go in Waterloo, Iowa

Bowling alleys in Waterloo City’s Cadillac XBC have been there for a long time.

Ideally situated in the heart of the city.

Cadillac XBC is the place to go for bowling tournaments and league games for amateur and professional bowlers alike!

Regarding sport and league bowling in Waterloo, CadillacXBC is ready for the future with attractions that appeal to today’s customers.

In addition to video games and virtual reality, there is a snack and beverage bar to keep you fueled and merry.

Cosmic Bowling, one of their biggest events, provides guests with a bowling experience unlike any other because of their art, light and sound.

Waterloo, Iowa, is one of the nicest locations to visit! There is no doubt that you and your loved ones will have a wonderful time here.

Visit Cadillac XBC while you’re in the area because it’s conveniently reachable by all tourists.

Address: 650 La Porte Rd, Waterloo, IA 50702, United States

Deciding to travel to Iowa? Get here the latest travel information and tips for Cedar Rapids and Davenport. Don’t miss out on this amazing state. Check out the entertaining things to do in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and things to do in Davenport, Iowa.

Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens

Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, Waterloo, Iowa

Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens is one of the best places to go in Waterloo, Iowa

The Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens is one of the top attractions in Iowa.

Visitors of all ages may enjoy exploring the forty-acre grounds of the Cedar Valley Arboretum and Botanic Gardens.

in addition to the Master Gardener’s Orchard, the award-winning Children’s Garden (as well as the Stout Daylily Collection), Iowa Native Prairie, and the 4-acre Garden of the Monarchs,

This orchard is home to four distinct varieties of fruit-bearing trees.

As well as fifteen formal gardens, the Cedar Valley Arboretum has a lot of variety.

The Arboretum’s 1-acre orchard was planted in 2014 with the aid of the Iowa State Master Gardener’s Program. Originally, the orchard was divided into four distinct areas, each including a different type of native Iowa fruit tree.

Cedar Valley Monarch Zones have established in 2019 thanks to the Young Family Foundation funding.

Monarch Butterflies need more habitats.

Thus CVMZ partners with environmental groups and community leaders to plant pollinator plants and expand the number of habitats for these butterflies. 

Moreover, they also educate the public about monarch butterflies and their importance.

Finally, the Arboretum allows dogs, but they must be kept on a leash to prevent accidents.

Enjoy the walk through nature with the whole family including your fur buddy!

Address: 1927 E Orange Rd, Waterloo, IA 50701

Cedar River Exchange Park

Cedar River Exchange Park, Waterloo, Iowa

Cedar River Exchange Park is one of the best places to go in Waterloo, Iowa

Families may relax in the shade of the evergreens at Cedar River Exchange Park, a park and recreational amenity in the area.

Iowa’s Exchange Park is located at an altitude of 256 meters. Exchange Park and a playground for kids are close to Riverfront Stadium and Burton Avenue Baptist Church.

There are open areas for youngsters to run around, basketball and volleyball courts.

You can even use a boat port along the riverbank for some water activities at this park.

It also has a disc golf course for those who wish to try this activity!

You may also bring rollerskates or a skateboard to optimize your utilization of the skatepark and ramps.

In addition, Cedar River Exchange Park provides a place to relax and unwind for a short time.

In your leisure time, you can meditate, meet with friends, listen to music, read a book, sunbathe, exercise, or bring a dog.

Bring some munchies to enjoy at the park’s picnic tables.

Address: 539 Burton Ave, Waterloo, IA 50703

Contemplating traveling to Iowa? Come over and check out our best travel guides for Sioux City and Des Moines. Visit the best things to do in Sioux City, Iowa, and the best things to do in Des Moines, Iowa.

Cedar Valley Nature Trail

Cedar Valley Nature Trail Iowa
Cedar Valley Nature Trail Iowa / Tony Webster / Flickr

The Nature Trail at Cedar Valley is one of Iowa’s earliest “linear parks.”

There are two conservation boards in charge of it: one in Black Hawk County and the other in Linn County.

WCF&N was a train line that ran through the city in the early 1980s and was repurposed for this use.

The 67-mile Cedar Valley Nature Trail connects Evansdale with Ely. A variety of tiny settlements may be found on its route.

From Evansdale to McFarlane Park, the route is paved.

On the other hand, McFarlane Park and Center Point have a compacted limestone surface.

In addition, there is a path that goes through farmland, forest, and wetlands from the Linn County metro area to Waterloo’s town.

Even though the limestone portion of the Cedar Valley Nature Trail is suitable for bikes with thin tires, beware of mud.

Try Rail-Trail bicycling during your trip, wherein it is an excellent opportunity to experience rural Iowa up close and personal.

Address: Waterloo, IA

Crossroads Mall

Crossroads Mall, Waterloo, Iowa

Crossroads Mall is one of the best places to go in Waterloo, Iowa

The best shops in Waterloo, Iowa, may be found here. We have what you’ve been searching for!

The Crossroads Mall is near the crossroads of Highway 380 and US 2o in Waterloo, Iowa.

The Isle of Lost Island Waterpark and the Capri Hotel and Casino are located around one mile apart.

For more than 50 miles around, it’s one of the region’s most important retail destinations (80 km).

12 Theatre of Crossroads can be found in the vicinity of the Crossroads Mall, flanked by various high-quality hotels and restaurants.

Body & Bath Works is one of several well-known retailers in the mall.

Other nearby stores include Beyond & Bath, Bed,  Noble & Barnes, Best Buy, Super Target, Hobby Lobby, TJ Maxx, Super Walmart, and DIck’s Sporting Goods.

There is no better place than Crossroads Mall to find everything you need in one place.

They’d love to have you join them in the shopping center.

Address: 2060 Crossroads Blvd, Waterloo, IA 50702

George Wyth State Park

George Wyth State Park, Waterloo, Iowa
George Wyth State Park is one of the best places to go in Waterloo, Iowa

A big wooded area with a wide range of outdoor sports and fauna is a must-see destination.

An “urban wildlife refuge” in Iowa, the Memorial State Park named George Wyth is located near Waterloo and Cedar Falls.

After a well-known Cedar Falls businessman, the park was christened George Wyth State Park in 1956, and its peaceful location near Waterloo and Cedar Falls makes it the perfect getaway.

The state park was designated as a National Wildlife Refuge for Urban Wildlife because it is home to more than 200 birds.

Visitors can see deer with white tails in the area at any time of the year.

Several recreational activities are available in George Wyth State Park, including animal viewing.

Walking and bike routes and trekking paths of six kilometers are also available, with a total of more than six kilometers path.

During the season of winter, Snowshoeing on snowy trails and snowmobiling are popular pastimes.

The bird blind in the back of the park is a great place to see various birds.

Birdwatchers have sighted more than 200 birds, as well as a variety of other animals.

Make sure to pay a visit if you’re a bird lover. If not, you can still enjoy the beauty of nature that it gives.

Address: 3659 Wyth Rd, Waterloo, IA 50703

Main Street Cedar Falls

Main Street Cedar Falls Waterloo
Main Street Cedar Falls Waterloo / David Wilson / Flickr

In downtown Cedar Falls’s heart, something exciting is always going on!

Founded in 1987, Community Main Street, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the commercial architecture of Cedar Falls’ central business district and promoting downtown redevelopment.

Here are just a few of the many sights to see along Cedar Falls’ main thoroughfares:

It is the mission of Carter House Market and Cafe to serve the community by providing fresh, locally sourced food and a warm Midwestern welcome.

You can find everything from books and magazines to DVDs and CDs at the Cedar Falls Public Library.

There is a Jamaican vibe to Cottonwood Canyon – The House, where freshly roasted coffee and lunch-sized sandwiches are served.

They’ll be happy to serve you beer or wine with your meal if you’d like. 

In addition, they offer wine by the glass, beer, and wine on tap.

Flowerama is dedicated to providing only the highest-quality floral arrangements and gifts, backed by courteous and prompt customer service.

To get the most out of your stay in Waterloo, it’s a good idea to take a trip to Cedar Falls with your family!

Address: 310 E 4th Stree Cedar Falls, IA 50613

Mama Nick’s Circle Pizzeria

Mama Nick's Circle Pizzeria Waterloo
Mama Nick’s Circle Pizzeria Waterloo / Tony Webster / Flickr

The Mama Nick’s Circle Pizzeria is one of the best places to visit in  Iowa.

Over fifty years of service to the community of Cedar Valley!

Mama Nick’s Circle Pizzeria can be found at 1934 Washington St.

This pizzeria has a long history of providing sandwiches, pasta and high-quality pizza.

For their custom-made pizzas, only the finest ingredients are used on the toppings.

Want to know their secret ingredients?

They just use the freshest ground sausage and tender beef combined with family seasonings, authentic mozzarella cheese, sliced meats, and freshly chopped veggies.

Freshly made French bread for sandwiches. Also on the menu was a selection of fresh-cut fries and Hand-breaded pork tenderloins.

There is a buffet with unlimited food and a large range of dishes for lunch.

Mama Nick’s Circle Pizzeria provides both dine-in, where you can enjoy your meal inside the store, and take-out or delivery, so you can enjoy it on the go or at home!

Bring your family to Mama Nick’s Circle Pizzeria in Waterloo and let them create memories that will have you smiling for weeks to come.

Address: 1934 Washington St, Waterloo, IA 50702

Lost Island Waterpark & Adventure Golf & Go-Karts

Lost Island Waterpark & Adventure Golf & Go-Karts, Waterloo, Iowa
Lost Island Waterpark & Adventure Golf & Go-Karts is one of the best places to go in Waterloo, Iowa

This Waterloo-area water and theme park is a great place to hang out with loved ones.

Los Angeles-based owners Becky and Gary Bertch want to expand their renowned Lost Island Waterpark with a $100-million Theme Park.

Since its inception in 2001, this business has been owned and maintained by the same family, and it has grown steadily since then.

One of the top parks in the country and the largest park in Iowa are just some of the accolades that have been bestowed on the park.

On hot summer days, Lost Island Waterpark prides itself on its many water slides and other water sports facilities to keep you cool and refreshed while having fun in the sun!

There are rides for children and adults, as well as thrilling rides for the daring daredevils, at this theme park.

Ride a water coaster or plunge into Lost Soul Falls with your kids.

Make sure to check out the new rides that are always being added to this park!

Address: 2600 E. Shaulis Road, Waterloo, IA 50701

Palmer’s Family Fun

Palmer's Family Fun, Waterloo, Iowa
Palmer’s Family Fun is one of the best places to go in Waterloo, Iowa

A place of amusement noted for its wide range of activities geared toward children and families.

At Palmer’s Family Fun, families are encouraged to play together, be active, and use their creative imaginations.

It takes ten minutes to get to Palmer’s Family Fun from the center of Waterloo.

Palmer’s Family Fun, formerly known as Airline Amusement Park, has a broad range of activities for visitors of all ages, such as go-karts, miniature golf, a batting cage, archery, laser tag, and much more!

The driving range is available for teens and young adults looking to improve their driving abilities in a risk-free atmosphere.

As a result, this family-owned and -maintained facility has become a go-to spot for parties of any size, large or small, looking for various activities.

Activities for children of all ages include a giant jumping pad, go-karts, mini golf, paintball, and bow and arrow shooting.

Be sure to bring your kids along so you can experience everything they have to offer.

Address: 1666 W Airline Hwy, Waterloo, IA 50703

Riverfront Stadium

Riverfront Stadium Waterloo
Riverfront Stadium Waterloo / Jon Gudorf Photography / Flickr

It was once known as the Municipality Stadium, and it was completed in 1946.

Most of the year, the Riverfront Stadium, located in Waterloo, Iowa, is utilized for baseball games.

Waterloo Riverfront Stadium was completed in 1946 and put into service.

Upon completion, the stadium was financed, built, and handed over to the city by private people and fans.

The Baseball Team of Waterloo Bucks, participants of the Northwoods Organization, a college baseball league throughout the summer, uses the stadium as their home base.

Five thousand spectators are allowed to attend games at the Riverfront Stadium.

A baseball team in the lower leagues, the Waterloo Hawks, played their home games at the stadium and hosted the All-Star by Midwest League Game in July of 1978.

Waterloo and the wider Cedar Valley area benefit greatly from Riverfront Stadium. It’s a piece of our collective past.

Plan a trip here to the Riverside Stadium with your family to see a baseball game in person!

Address: 850 Park Rd, Waterloo, IA 50703

Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area

Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area, Waterloo, Iowa
Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area is one of the best places to go in Waterloo, Iowa

To preserve and interpret the narrative of American agriculture and its worldwide significance, Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area has been established.

Heritage of the agricultural revolution still survives in the Silos and Smokestacks area, but preservation and interpretation are needed.

America’s riches and global dominance are largely derived from its agricultural sector.

In order to tell this narrative effectively, we must express its breadth and scale in a meaningful way.

There are many diverse ways to portray the narrative of American agriculture, and the Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area is devoted to doing just that.

To understand agriculture’s past and future, we must acknowledge the contributions of people of all races and ethnicities and treat them with decency and respect.

In addition, Silos & Smokestacks is committed to ensuring that its public activities attract diverse participants, including its employees, volunteers, and guests.

They are always looking for new methods to improve our educational and training programs for cultural sites.

S&S is cognizant that agriculture has much more to tell than is presently being told.

The company’s workforce is hard at developing innovative methods to communicate a diverse story about agriculture.

Learn more about the agricultural evolution that has happened throughout the years by visiting this wonderful destination!

Address: 305 W PARK AVE Waterloo, IA 50701-5529

Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum

Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum, Waterloo, Iowa
Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum is one of the best places to go in Waterloo, Iowa

If you are interested in military history or are a veteran, you must visit the Veterans Museum.

Iowa warriors from the Civil War to the current day are honored in Waterloo’s Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum, erected in honor of their service and sacrifice.

For more than 150 years, Iowa men and women have sworn an oath to maintain the union, defend democracy, and combat terrorism.

Compared to other states, Iowans were more likely to volunteer for this work and didn’t do it for recognition or money. This has been a long-standing custom.

More than 35 interactive displays highlight veterans’ experiences at the museum, in addition to the interviews with more than 1,500 active-duty service members conducted by a Voices of Iowa Oral History Project.

Visitors may get insight into the lives of the honorees on the computerized Wall of Honor through hands-on activities and more conventional exhibitions.

Plan a trip for you to learn what life has been for the veterans who fought for freedom!

Address: 503 South St, Waterloo, IA 50701

The Isle Casino and Hotel Waterloo

The Isle Casino and Hotel Waterloo, Waterloo, Iowa
The Isle Casino and Hotel Waterloo is one of the best places to go in Waterloo, Iowa

Want to play a game? Many table games, slot machines, video poker, Baccarat, and sports betting are available at the Isle Casino and Hotel Waterloo.

Enjoy nonstop gaming action at Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo.

Located in Waterloo, Iowa, Caesars Entertainment owns and operates the Isle Casino Hotel.

The Black Hawk County Gaming Association lobbied hard to get a casino to this part of the state, and the casino opened on June 30, 2007.

In addition to 950 slot machines, including 75 video poker machines, there are roughly 29 table games and 950 slot machines.

Are you in need of something to put a smile on your face? Visit one of their restaurants to sample some of Waterloo’s best specialties or some of your truly personal favorites from the grill!

27 suites, an indoor pool, a hot tub, and a fitness center are available at Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo.

If you’re looking for nonstop gaming pleasure, book a hotel at Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo now.

Address: 777 Isle of Capri Blvd, Waterloo, IA, 50701

The Heart Of Darkness

The Heart Of Darkness, Waterloo, Iowa
The Heart Of Darkness is one of the best places to go in Waterloo, Iowa

For those looking for the greatest haunted house experience available in Iowa, go no farther than the Heart of Darkness!

Residents of the area have enjoyed this haunted house’s horrific entertainment for over two decades.

Iowa’s Heart of Darkness Haunted House is the state’s most horrific haunted attraction, according to fearfinder.com.

As you weave your way through the farmland outside Waterloo, the haunted attraction’s thirteen various haunting locales are sure to give you goosebumps. Meanwhile, the attraction prioritizes your safety while reviving a long-standing yearly Halloween tradition.

Many attractions are accessible, including the Claustrophobia Black Out Maze, Grizzly’s Chainsaw Massacre, and Zombie CDC!

In addition to the food stand and scary movie screenings, this site has a photo booth where you may make lasting memories.

The 3D Killer Circus offers guests the chance to get up and personal with some truly horrific entertainment.

The Heart of Darkness, a haunted house, is not for the faint of heart, so be prepared to be scared.

Address: 5111 Osage Rd, Waterloo, IA 50703-9390

The Bunker Live Music Co-op

The Bunker Live Music Co-op, Waterloo, Iowa
The Bunker Live Music Co-op is one of the best places to go in Waterloo, Iowa

With the help of some of the best local musicians, guests to this Waterloo concert hall may enjoy an evening of singing and dancing to the music.

Now called The Bunker Live Music Co-op, they used to be known as Spicoli’s Reverb Concert Hall & Rock Museum. Despite this, they continue to provide the same entertainment and enjoyment as they did in the past.

Since it opened its doors more than 20 years ago, this live entertainment venue has been dedicated to safeguarding and promoting local musicians and artists.

A wide range of types of music may be heard at this entertainment center throughout the year, from rock to pop and everything in between.

The Bunker Live Music Co-op has taken place once known as The Reverb, Spicoli’s Grill, and finally, Spicoli’s Reverb’s moniker.

This new logo demonstrates the Board of Director’s commitment to the future facility and the performances that will be held there!

Make a reservation in advance if you want to be sure of getting into this institution, as walk-ins are not allowed.

Address: 310 West Conger Street, Waterloo, IA 50703

The Brown Bottle

The Brown Bottle, Waterloo, Iowa
The Brown Bottle is one of the best places to go in Waterloo, Iowa

The Brown Bottle, a restaurant specializing in Italian cuisine, is housed in the Russell Lamson Building, built in 1913.

Patrons of The Brown Bottle in Waterloo have come to expect some of the best Italian food in the neighborhood.

The Brown Bottle, a pub and restaurant in the historic Russell Lamson Building has a stunning entryway.

With an extensive menu that caters to all tastes and preferences, this family-owned and run restaurant is one of the city’s most sought-after eateries. Rustic but laid-back, it provides a valuable service to the locals.

An evening out at this family-run restaurant is ideal for casual and more formal occasions. I can’t get enough of their pizza!

Everybody may have a tasty meal thanks to their gluten-free options.

One of the most extensive and pricey wine lists you will find anywhere can be found at this establishment.

To ensure the best possible quality, they employ recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation.

Enjoy the fine dining that this pub and restaurant provides to its customers alongside your family.

Address: 209 W 5th St. Waterloo, IA 50701

Veteran’s Memorial Hall

Veteran's Memorial Hall, Waterloo, Iowa
Veteran’s Memorial Hall is one of the best places to go in Waterloo, Iowa

For military enthusiasts, this is a must-see location, and it’s completely free!

The Memorial Hall Commission is developing soldiers and Sailors Park at 655 Cedar Street.

The 400-foot brick promenade in the park will have granite monuments and bronze plaques.

Starting at the 5th Street bridge, the walkway will meander through the park and end at the 4th Street bridge.

These monuments and plaques will commemorate all of our military’s battles and conflicts.

Bricks to Honor Veterans are also available for purchase.

The commission is selling bricks in honor of those who have served in the military to help pay for the construction of our Soldiers and Sailor’s Park.

The walkway will be built entirely out of these bricks.

Each brick will be personalized with the veteran’s name, the branch of service, and the dates of service.

Veterans Memorial Hall will keep a record of the position of your bricks.

You may aid Memorial Hall’s purpose by purchasing a brick during your visit.

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Address: 655 Cedar Street Waterloo, IA 50701

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