Cedar Falls IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Cedar Falls, Iowa.
1. Cedar Falls Main Street
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN EXPERIENCE
Cedar Falls Main Street is the lively heart of the city, lined with shops, restaurants, and unique local boutiques. Visitors can enjoy public art, seasonal events, and a welcoming, small-town atmosphere that makes it perfect for strolling and leisure. The district is a popular destination for both shopping and community gatherings.
2. Big Woods Lake Recreation Area
OUTDOOR WATER ACTIVITIES
Big Woods Lake Recreation Area offers 65 acres of serene water, ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Visitors can hike or bike on trails surrounding the lake and enjoy the scenic views and abundant wildlife. The park is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
3. Hartman Reserve Nature Center
WOODLAND WILDLIFE PRESERVE
Hartman Reserve Nature Center spans 340 acres of native woodland and offers hiking, educational exhibits, and year-round programming. Guests can explore trails while observing local wildlife like deer, foxes, and otters. The center is dedicated to conservation and nature education for all ages.
4. Escapology Escape Rooms
ADVENTURE GAME VENUE
Escapology Escape Rooms challenges groups with immersive puzzle games that require teamwork and quick thinking. Each themed room offers a different storyline, providing entertainment for friends, families, or colleagues. It's a popular destination for birthday parties and team-building events.
5. UNI-Dome
MULTI-PURPOSE STADIUM
The UNI-Dome, located on the University of Northern Iowa campus, hosts athletic events, concerts, and community gatherings. Its unique domed structure makes it an iconic feature of the city skyline. The venue draws thousands of visitors for football games, graduations, and large-scale shows.
6. Hearst Center for the Arts
CREATIVE COMMUNITY HUB
The Hearst Center for the Arts showcases local and regional art through rotating exhibits, performances, and educational programs. Visitors can view sculptures, paintings, and participate in workshops for all ages. The center is housed in a historic mansion with beautiful outdoor gardens.
7. Ice House Museum
HISTORIC RIVERFRONT MUSEUM
The Ice House Museum is located in a unique round building on the Cedar River, once used for ice storage. The museum explores the history of ice harvesting and river commerce in the area. Guided tours bring to life an important piece of Cedar Falls' industrial past.
8. Cedar Falls Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND CRAFTS
The Cedar Falls Farmers Market features fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, and artisan crafts each week. Visitors can meet local farmers and makers while enjoying live music and a friendly community atmosphere. It's a staple event during warmer months in the city.
9. Panthers on Parade
PUBLIC ART TRAIL
Panthers on Parade is a citywide art installation featuring large, artistically decorated panther statues. Visitors can explore Cedar Falls by following the trail and discovering each unique panther. The event celebrates local creativity and school spirit from May through October.
10. Cedar Falls Downtown District
ECLECTIC SHOPPING AREA
The Cedar Falls Downtown District is renowned for its eclectic mix of boutiques, restaurants, and specialty shops. Visitors can enjoy live music, nightlife, and seasonal events in a vibrant, walkable setting. This area is a destination for both shopping sprees and leisurely window-shopping.
11. McLeod Center
SPORTS AND EVENTS ARENA
McLeod Center, adjacent to the UNI-Dome, is the home court for University of Northern Iowa basketball and volleyball games. The modern arena also hosts concerts, ceremonies, and special events throughout the year. Fans and visitors enjoy its lively atmosphere and excellent sightlines.
12. Rod Library at UNI
ACADEMIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCE
Rod Library at the University of Northern Iowa is both an academic and cultural resource for students and the public. The library offers extensive collections, comfortable study spaces, and regular art exhibits. Its events and workshops are open to the wider community.
13. The Black Hawk Hotel
HISTORIC BOUTIQUE HOTEL
The Black Hawk Hotel, established in the 1850s, is one of the oldest operating hotels in the United States. It offers 28 rooms and suites blending historic charm with modern comfort. The landmark property is centrally located on Main Street and is a favorite among visitors seeking a unique stay.
14. Cedar Valley Trails
EXTENSIVE BIKING NETWORK
Cedar Valley Trails is a network of more than 125 miles of trails winding through Cedar Falls and neighboring cities. The paved pathways are perfect for biking, running, or walking and offer scenic views along the Cedar River. The trail system is popular with locals and visiting cyclists alike.
15. George Wyth State Park
NATURE RECREATION AREA
George Wyth State Park, located just southeast of Cedar Falls in Waterloo, provides opportunities for hiking, camping, bird-watching, and water sports. The park features woodlands, lakes, and a wide range of wildlife habitats. Its convenient location and recreational options draw visitors from across the region.