About the Cedar Valley

Waterloo & Cedar Falls: The Heart of the Valley

The Cedar Valley in Iowa is a dynamic region offering a rich mix of history, culture, and entertainment.

Waterloo is home to the renowned John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum, celebrating the area's agricultural roots, and the vibrant RiverLoop Amphitheatre, which hosts concerts and events along the Cedar River. The Cedar Valley SportsPlex offers state-of-the-art fitness and recreation facilities for all ages. Dining options in Waterloo range from farm-to-table eateries to beloved local spots, while the nearby Lost Island Waterpark adds a splash of adventure.

Just a few miles away, Cedar Falls complements Waterloo with its quaint downtown and thriving arts scene, anchored by the University of Northern Iowa. Together, these cities form a lively, welcoming destination in the heart of Iowa.

Cheer for the Home Team

Arts & Culture

The Cedar Valley offers great arts and culture experiences, including live performances, festivals, art galleries, museums, gardens, and more.

The Grout Museum District in Waterloo features a variety of exhibits, including local history, science, and military artifacts, across multiple sites like the Grout Museum of History & Science, the Bluedorn Science Imaginarium, and the Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum.

Visit Grout Museum

The National Cattle Congress organization provides year-round events and activities. Their biggest annual event, the National Cattle Congress Fair, attracts more than 80,000 visitors each year for food, music, carnival rides, and livestock shows.

Visit National Cattle Congress

The Center collects Midwest Art, American Decorative Arts and International Folk Art, including a significant collection of Mexican Folk Art and the worlds’ largest public collection of Haitian Art.

Visit Waterloo Center for the Arts

Located on the Unviersity of Northern Iowa campus in Cedar Falls, the center hosts more than 300 performances each year. It's also performance home for the Waterloo Cedar Falls Symphony.

Visit Gallagher Bluedorn

Located on the east edge of Hawkeye's Main Campus, the arboretum features 40 acres of themed gardens and landscapes, walking trails, educational programming, and community celebrations.

Visit the Arboretum

The Phelps Youth Pavilion is a two-level children's museum packed with fun, hands-on activities. Kids can enjoy everything from simple art projects in the Arts Workshop to interactive high-tech exhibits and a play area where they can climb and explore.

Visit Phelps Youth Pavilion

The Waterloo Community Playhouse and Black Hawk Children's Theatre offer live shows for both adults and kids. They also provide fun opportunities for children to learn and participate in theater through workshops and performances.

Visit Waterloo Community Playhouse

Located in downtown Cedar Falls, Oster Regent is home to Cedar Falls Community Theatre, and hosts theatre, live music, and more throughout the year.

Visit Oster Regent Theatre

Explore Waterloo & Cedar Falls

The Cedar Valley offers diverse cultural experiences and all the amenities of a big city with a small town feel. There’s always something to do, whether you want to attend a sporting event, go shopping, or go to a local restaurant.