Waterloo Vacations from $938

Things to do in and around Waterloo

Waterloo, Iowa, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and entertainment options. Enjoy the thrills of a local water park, explore educational attractions, and indulge in shopping at various centers. For an enriching experience, consider sightseeing tours that highlight the city’s charm, as well as outdoor adventures that provide recreational opportunities for all ages.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is College Square Mall, located 5 miles away, offering a variety of shops and entertainment options. If you're up for a drive, check out Crossroads Mall, about 15 miles away, featuring more retail choices and dining experiences for a full day of shopping.

Recreation

South Hills Golf Course offers a relaxing outdoor experience with its beautifully maintained greens and scenic views, perfect for a day of golfing. For a tranquil retreat, visit Big Woods Lake Recreation Area, where you can unwind amidst nature. Families will enjoy the fun at Falls Aquatic Center, featuring pools and activities for all ages.

Adventure

At Lost Island Waterpark, you can enjoy thrilling water slides and a lazy river, perfect for family fun and adventure. Palmer's Family Fun offers an arcadeAdventureZone filled with games for all ages, while The Heart Of Darkness provides an immersive gaming experience that promises excitement for the whole family.

Nightlife

Waterloo's nightlife is vibrant, featuring lively bars like The Electric Park Ballroom for live music and The Copper Bar for craft cocktails. For a relaxed vibe, visit The Brown Bottle, where you can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere and great food. There's something for everyone to enjoy.

Find the best attractions in and around Waterloo

Waterloo, Iowa, is an ideal destination for family-friendly and entertainment-focused vacations. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including modern universities, arenas, and event venues. The city offers a diverse range of activities that cater to travelers seeking cultural experiences and outdoor adventures, making it a great spot for anyone looking to enjoy a dynamic getaway.

• John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum: Immerse yourself in the rich agricultural heritage at the John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum. This unique museum showcases the evolution of farming technology, featuring vintage tractors and engines that tell the story of American agriculture.
• University of Northern Iowa: Located a short drive from Waterloo, the University of Northern Iowa is a vibrant campus known for its beautiful architecture and dynamic atmosphere. Explore the university's arts, culture, and educational offerings, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.
• Young Arena: Experience family-friendly entertainment at Young Arena, where you can enjoy various events, including hockey games and community activities. This lively venue is a hub of excitement for locals and visitors alike.

Best time to go to Waterloo

The best time to visit Waterloo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Waterloo falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Waterloo falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	18.5°F (-7.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	20.8°F (-6.2°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
March	36.5°F (2.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	59.9°F (15.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	69.8°F (21.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	72.5°F (22.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	71.1°F (21.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	64.8°F (18.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	51.3°F (10.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	26.8°F (-2.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to Waterloo

• Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
• Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically November to January) for more affordable package holidays to Waterloo.
• Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
• Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.