Student Travelers Should See the New Face of Waterloo, Iowa

Waterloo is located in the northeast portion of Iowa on the Cedar River and is one of the state’s most historic towns.  The city is introducing a number of redevelopment projects; major among them is the River Renaissance development that will add a river walk, amphitheater, and art mall to its cultural attractions.

Another new feature is Tech Works, which will host an agricultural tourism exhibition center, manufacturing mall, technology center, and a bio-product merchandise mart. The city of Waterloo is reinventing itself while keeping its historic roots and charm, making it a great place for your next student group trip. The metro areas population is approximately 110,000 people.

Places for Students to Stay

There are over 1,100 rooms in Waterloo. Room prices in the area range from $49.00 up to $99.00 and several are three diamond properties. The area CVB will help coordinate lodging for your student group. The only full service hotel in the area is the Ramada Hotel & Convention Center.

Places to Play

Lost Island Adventure Park

Iowa’s largest outdoor water park with 8 major water slides, lazy river, wave pool, restaurants, gift shop, adventure golf and go-carts

The Dan Gable International Wrestling Institute & Museum

This museum preserves the history of mankind’s oldest sport and presents it in a manner that is educational, entertaining and serves as an inspiration for young people to dream big and work hard!

Places to Perform

The Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center seats 1,680 for performances. They offer Broadway productions, musicals and special guest entertainers.

The Hope Martin Theater at The Waterloo Center for the Arts is adding a 30,000 sq. ft. Youth Pavilion this year.

Crossroads Center Mall is the largest regional mall in Northeast Iowa with anchor stores of Richman Gordman, Dillard’s, Younkers, JC Penney and Sears.

Places to Have Fun

The Waterloo area has five city golf courses, three bowling facilities, Iowa’s largest outdoor water park (Lost Island Water Park), miniature golf, youth arts pavilion, hands on science center, indoor tennis club, and indoor ice skating and roller skating.

Places to Parade

My Waterloo Days Festival

A community-wide, annual festival organized by volunteers to showcase and celebrate Waterloo’s cultural and recreational opportunities

Sturgis Falls Celebration

Series of events including parade, carnival, race, concerts, concessions, and talent competition