Experience Waterloo

Step into Waterloo’s history at Strolling with the Spirits! 🕯️🕸️🪦

Costumed actors will bring local historical figures and their stories to life during this unique stroll through the historic Waterloo Cemetery. The Grout Museum hosts this event offering a memorable way to connect with Waterloo’s heritage, local folklore, and the people who have helped shape the community.

🗓 October 10, 2026
⏰ Walks at 3PM and 10 PM
📍 Waterloo Cemetery
🎟 $10 for members | $15 general admission

*Advance registration is required.

This morning, Waterloo welcomed riders participating in the American Discovery Trail Relay. On the ride today to Cedar Rapids, they carried 3 batons: Life, Liberty, & Pursuit of Happiness. Each baton holds a copy of the Declaration of Independence. The ride continues to Washington DC for the remainder of the year. Participants can join where they can and pass the baton at the next stop. Thank you for stopping in Waterloo!

Grant applications are NOW OPEN for events happening January 1 thru June 30th, 2027. We have made changes to our system to make it easier to apply!

Got a great event idea? Let’s make it happen. Our updated application portal is live, and we can't wait to see what you have planned for next year. Read the rules and qualifications, then submit your application by October 31st.
🔗 https://experiencewaterloo.com/meeting-planners/grants/event-grant-application/

We are proud to award grants that help events, tournaments, and conventions bring people to Waterloo. This year, we have awarded event grants to:
Con-Quest Comic Con
Iowa Irish Fest
51st Division 1 Show Ski National Championship
Cedar Valley Pride Fest
Ebonite Fall Classic Bowling Tournament
iBosnaFest
IOMA Fall Classic
Iowa State Police Association (ISPA) Annual Conference
Battle of Waterloo Wrestling Tournament

Hello, October! 🎃🍂 Spooky season is officially here, and Waterloo has a full lineup of fall fun coming your way. Here is a sneak peek at what to expect!

This Month in Waterloo ⬇️
https://experiencewaterloo.com/experience/things-to-do-this-month/

Hockey is back at Young Arena! 🏒

The Waterloo Black Hawks’ home opener is set for October 2 against the Dubuque Fighting Saints!

🗓 October 2
⏰ 6:35 PM
📍 Young Arena

📍 Happy World Tourism Day, Waterloo!

You don’t need a passport to experience somewhere incredible. Today is all about celebrating the places and people that make Waterloo worth exploring—and keeping our local community vibrant!

When you spend a weekend exploring Waterloo, you’re supporting: Local coffee shops & family-owned spots powering our mornings, local chefs serving up unforgettable meals, world-class arts, museums, historic landmarks, miles of scenic Cedar Valley trails and outdoor adventures!

Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or taking a staycation in your own hometown, you help Waterloo thrive ❤️

👇 What’s the #1 local spot you always recommend to someone visiting Waterloo for the first time?

Help us welcome TreeHaus to downtown Waterloo! ☕️

They have been hosting their soft opening this week, and plan on opening officially in mid to late October!

Soft opening hours:
🗓️ September 26-27 | 8AM - 2PM

📍223 W Fourth St, Waterloo, IA

A day at the National Cattle Congress Fair 🐮🎡🚜💐

🗓️ September 24-27
⏰ Fair Hours: Thursday–Saturday: 9 AM – 11 PM | Sunday: 9 AM – 6 PM