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Sunset @GatewayRiverPark
Summer in Cedar Falls
Looking for the perfect summer getaway? With just over 40,000 locals, this charming city lets you play in a river in the morning, bicycle trails all day, sip craft beer in the afternoon, and wind down with live music at night.
Conveniently located, Cedar Falls is just a short drive from several Midwest cities:
- Des Moines, IA: 2 hours
- Iowa City, IA: 1 hour
- Minneapolis, MN: 3.5 hours
- Omaha, NE: 4 hours
- Chicago, IL: 5 hours
- Madison, WI: 3 hours
- Norfolk, NE: 4.5 hours
Flying in? The Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO) is just 5 minutes away, offering direct flights from Chicago, with additional choices from the Eastern Iowa Airport (CID), just 45 minutes away.
Where to Stay: Book a hotel in Cedar Falls’ Downtown District, where everything’s walkable or bikeable. Stay at The Black Hawk Hotel, a historic boutique with a speakeasy lounge, or the modern Hampton Inn, offering river views and an indoor pool. For a romantic getaway just 10 minutes from downtown, try the Glamping Tent at Three Pines Farm, named one of Iowa’s Best Romantic Getaways by Midwest Living.
Ready to plan your trip? Here’s how to spend two unforgettable days in Cedar Falls:
@TataYaya
Day 1
Morning: Start your day with coffee and crepes at Tata Yaya, where outdoor seating makes for a perfect morning in the Downtown District.
@CedarFallsFarmersMarket
If it’s Saturday, don’t miss the Cedar Falls Farmers Market, where you can browse fresh produce and handmade goods.
@GatewayRiverPark
Afterward, head to Gateway River Park for tubing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or even river surfing—gear rentals are available at CrawDaddy Outdoors, UNI Recreation, or Cooks Outdoors (just be sure to call ahead - options vary).
If you’re looking for a modern waterpark experience, don’t miss The Falls Aquatic Center—a top pick for families! Enjoy thrilling diving boards, exciting slides, and a relaxing lazy river, or let the little ones explore the kid-friendly Safari Falls play area. Unwind in shaded lounge spaces or elevate your day with a private cabana rental. For more fun ideas, explore our quick list of Family-Friendly Activities!
Lunch: Relax on the patio with a local craft beer at Second State Brewing (only in Cedar Falls), then create your own burger for lunch at Wilbo Burgers, Brats and Beers.
After lunch, explore Cedar Falls’ historic Downtown District for a bit of shopping. Check out the books and gifts at The Nook indie bookstore, records at Vinyl Cup, or boutique clothing at the Funky Zebra.
Afternoon: Hop on a bike and hit the trails! Cedar Falls is Iowa’s first designated Trail Town, with 130 miles of scenic paths. Don’t worry about getting lost—there are over 140 wayfinding signs to keep you on track.
Evening: Unwind with a martini at The Stuffed Olive, followed by dinner by the firepit at George’s Local or on the rooftop at Montage.
For after-dinner fun, head to River Place Plaza for live music, dance the night away at Shelly O’Shea’s Irish Pub, or try axe throwing at Hurling Hatchet.
Day 2
Morning: Start with coffee at Cup of Joe before heading to Big Woods Lake for kayaking or a peaceful paddle. Looking for a little friendly competition? Play a round of disc golf at one of Cedar Falls’ courses or hit up the local pickleball courts for some fast-paced fun.
@UrbanPie
Lunch: Try a wood-fired pizza at Urban Pie or Tony’s La Pizzeria, or enjoy a beer and hearty meal at Singlespeed Brewery. Beer lovers can also follow the Cedar Falls Beer Trail Passport, visiting breweries and pubs while earning swag.
Afternoon: Take a stroll along the river at Gateway River Park or dive into history at the Ice House Museum, a one-of-a-kind museum dedicated to ice harvesting. Don’t forget to treat yourself to ice cream at Cedar City Creamery.
@Three Pines Farm
Evening: Wrap up your trip with an ice cream night at Three Pines Farm, a show at the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center, or live music at The Octopus on College Hill (stop for an early dinner at Zury's Taco Bar).
Year-Round Events @Downtown District
Festivals and Events
Cedar Falls is packed with events year-round! Don’t miss the Sturgis Falls Celebration, the Cedar Basin Music Festival, or outdoor music most Fridays at River Place Plaza. See the Annual Events Calendar
Get more inspiration to plan your getaway
with a FREE Cedar Falls Visitor Guide
Advertising leading to this page paid for in part by the Iowa Tourism Office.
