The best parks & outdoor spots in Cedar Falls

3 places we’ve checked and would send a neighbor to. Open any one to read what we wrote about it.

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Riverloop Expo Plaza (opens in a new tab)

400 Commercial St · Waterloo

Big open-air plaza that turns into whatever Waterloo needs this week: farmers market mornings, food truck feasts, concerts and art fests.…

Big open-air plaza that turns into whatever Waterloo needs this week: farmers market mornings, food truck feasts, concerts and art fests. RiverLoop Expo Plaza keeps the energy high and the neighbors bumping into each other in the best way possible, so swing by and see what's popping.

From the Waterloo newsletter, October 22, 2026

Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens (opens in a new tab)

1927 E Orange Rd · Waterloo

Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens is an easy reset close to home, with thoughtfully curated gardens to wander and plenty of programs…

Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens is an easy reset close to home, with thoughtfully curated gardens to wander and plenty of programs to keep you coming back, from kid-friendly storytime and youth activities to hands-on adult workshops and seasonal celebrations. Go wander this week and come home nicer.

From the Waterloo newsletter, October 14, 2026

Gates Park (opens in a new tab)

820 E Donald St · Waterloo

Need a low-effort kid energy dump and a little you-time. Gates Park brings the splash with a spray pad and a modern playground, plus plenty…

Need a low-effort kid energy dump and a little you-time. Gates Park brings the splash with a spray pad and a modern playground, plus plenty of space to spread out so you can cool off, let the kids sprint, and reset the week without leaving Waterloo.

From the Waterloo newsletter, October 8, 2026