Things To Do
in Cedar Falls
Cedar Falls is a welcoming university town in northeastern Iowa that blends small-city charm with student energy from the University of Northern Iowa. Nestled along the Cedar River, it offers easy access to parks, trails, and a lively downtown. The Main Street district is dotted with shops, eateries, and cultural events that reflect Midwestern hospitality.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor recreation, pleasant neighborhoods, and a relaxed pace just a short drive from Waterloo and the broader Cedar Valley.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Cedar Falls' Historic District, where charming Victorian homes and quaint shops await. Stop by a local café for a hearty breakfast featuring homemade pastries and fresh coffee. As you wander, take note of the historical markers that tell the story of this vibrant community.
After lunch at a family-owned restaurant, visit the Cedar Falls Historical Society to learn more about the area's rich past through engaging exhibits. Next, explore the nearby Cedar Falls Public Library, which boasts beautiful architecture and a cozy reading nook. Don't forget to check out local artisans' shops showcasing handmade crafts and unique gifts.
As the sun sets, head to a local brewery for a tasting of craft beers brewed on-site. Enjoy dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant, where seasonal ingredients are celebrated in every dish. Cap off your evening with a stroll along the riverwalk, soaking in the peaceful ambiance and the gentle sounds of nature.
Begin your day with a visit to the Cedar Falls Arts and Culture Center, where you can view rotating exhibits of local artists. Participate in a morning art class to unleash your creativity, surrounded by inspiring works. Don't forget to chat with the artists to gain insight into their creative processes.
After a quick lunch at a nearby café, explore the Cedar Falls Community Theatre, where you can catch a matinee performance or even a behind-the-scenes tour. Spend some time at the University of Northern Iowa's galleries, which often host student exhibitions and events. This afternoon is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local art scene.
Enjoy an exquisite dining experience at a local restaurant that features live music, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere. After dinner, attend a performance at the community theatre, celebrating local talent in a cozy venue. Reflect on your day as you enjoy a nightcap at a local wine bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕️Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (city center, per month) | $800-1,200 |
| 🚌Monthly transit pass | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- University city with energetic culture and good parks
- Compact downtown with walkable streets and dining options
- Access to nature via Hartman Reserve and Cedar River Trail
- Friendly Midwestern hospitality and safety
- Good value for a short-stay visit
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Public transit options are more modest; car can be convenient
- Weather can be seasonal and variable; winters are cold
Places to Visit in Cedar Falls
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic nature preserve with wooded trails, wetlands, and a visitor center ideal for nature photography.
Historic storefronts, brick facades, and colorful signage provide classic small-town cityscape photo opportunities.
Riverside viewpoints and bridges along the Cedar River for landscape and sunset shots.
Lush greens, sculptures, and seasonal color on campus grounds suitable for architectural and campus-life photography.
Food in Cedar Falls
Cedar Falls Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seasonal corn prepared simply to showcase its sweetness, a staple on many summer menus.
Must-Try!
Smoky pork on a soft bun with tangy corn relish, a common comfort-food option at casual eateries.
Traditional sausage paired with local brews, a familiar choice at pubs and casual restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring locally grown produce, baked goods, and ready-to-eat treats; check weekend schedules in warmer months.
Seasonal food trucks and pop-ups around Main Street offering a variety of quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and a brief chat are common; maintain polite conversation and offer a handshake in formal settings.
Observe campus rules and posted signage when visiting UNI grounds; respect the student environment and quiet areas.
Keep public spaces tidy; be mindful of noise in residential areas, especially evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Cedar Falls
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, typical tip is 15-20% before tax. For counter-service or delivery, tipping is appreciated but not always expected.
Most places accept cash and major credit/debit cards; mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with humidity; outdoor markets and events thrive. Brief afternoon thunderstorms are common, so plan shade and rain gear.
Mild days with colorful foliage; ideal for hiking and outdoor photography along river and park trails.
Cold with potential snowfall; layering is essential and many outdoor activities shift indoors or to well-plowed paths.
Mild and often rainy; blooming flowers and fresh greenery brighten city parks and campus spaces.
Cedar Falls at Night
Hiking in Cedar Falls
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible loop trails through woods and wetlands with wildlife viewing opportunities.
A long multi-use rail-trail network offering scenic, easy-to-moderate hiking and biking options.
Airports
How to reach Cedar Falls by plane.
A regional airport located near Waterloo, approximately 10-15 miles from Cedar Falls, offering domestic flights and convenient ground transportation.
A major airport about 140-150 miles southwest of Cedar Falls with broad domestic and international options; reachable by car, rail, or bus.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The presence of UNI brings a substantial student population and young workers to the area.
Historically the majority demographic in the region, with growing diversity over time.
A growing community contributing to the area’s cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
College football is popular at UNI with home games attracting local support.
UNI Panthers compete in NCAA Division I basketball; games are a local event during the season.
Another common college sport during spring athletics at UNI and local clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cedar Falls.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for veggie burgers, salads, grain bowls, and seasonal vegetables at most spots.