Offices in Waterloo, Cedar Falls, Jesup & Waverly
Serving the entire Cedar Valley

RE/MAX HOME GROUP WATERLOO, CEDAR FALLS, JESUP, & WAVERLY

Waterloo Area Guide

Located on the banks of the majestic Cedar River, Waterloo is a city that is progressing well as the 21st century moves forward. Famous as one of the state’s most historic towns, downtown Waterloo has also been transformed into a great new family adventure. Enjoy beautiful new hotels, the Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo and a country wide favorite, the Lost Island Water Park, as well as great shopping while enjoying the already impressive variety of businesses.

Ranked in the top twenty by Forbes Magazine as one of the “Best Small Places for Businesses and Careers,” Waterloo is a great place to begin a career, start a business and buy a home to settle down. Whether you’re just beginning your career path, ready to strike out on your own or preparing to downsize to a smaller home to enjoy your active retirement, Waterloo offers something for every aspect of your life. Leisure time, business time, anytime, the city once known as Prairie Rapids Crossing has grown into a place where its residents appreciate what it offers, happy to call it home, and welcoming new residents with open arms.

To learn more, visit: http://www.ci.waterloo.ia.us/home

History

Originally known as Prairie Rapids Crossing, the town was settled near two Meskwaki American tribal seasonal camps alongside the Cedar River in 1845. George and Mary Melrose Hanna and their children arrived to settle and were followed by the Virden and Mullan families in 1846. After Charles Mullan petitioned for a post office, the town’s name was changed as Mullan filled through a list of other post offices and came on the name Waterloo. The name stuck and Mullan served as the first postmaster until 1854.

Between 1895 and 1915, the population increased by 290%, to over 71,000 people thanks to the growth of manufacturing, rail transportation and wholesale operations. Through the years, Waterloo has grown, businesses moving to Waterloo for its opportunities and easy access to the Cedar River. Today, Waterloo is experiencing a renovation of its downtown area and businesses are expanding even more.

Attractions and Events

Bluedorn Science Museum
This hands - on science center makes learning fun, teaching through formal demonstrations and interactive exhibits as well as a look at nature’s finest from snakes to turtles.

To learn more, visit: http://www.groutmuseumdistrict.org/bluedorn/

Isle Casino – Hotel
Exciting casino action, delicious dining, thrilling giveaways, great entertainment and comfortable rooms. http://waterloo.isleofcapricasinos.com/index.aspx

Lost Island Water Park
http://www.thelostisland.com/default.aspx

Performing Arts
So many venues, you won’t know where to begin. From the Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center to The Oscar Wilde Project, performing arts are a big part of life in Waterloo.

For more information, visit: http://www.cedarnet.org/ahs/perform.html

The Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum
The Museum honors the service and sacrifice of all Iowa veterans from the Civil War to present. Step into their stories through traditional exhibits, interactive activities and an electronic Wall of Honor. http://www.groutmuseumdistrict.org/sullivan/

Waterloo Black Hawks Hockey
Enjoy sports played at a professional level with Black Hawks Hockey at the Cedar Rapids Ice Arena!

To learn more, visit: http://www.waterlooblackhawks.com/

For more attractions and events in Waterloo, visit: http://www.ci.waterloo.ia.us/attractions

Parks and Recreation

With 52 parks located in and around Waterloo, residents and visitors are offered a wide array of scenery and activities. Whether you’re looking for a quiet picnic area and a book to read on your afternoon off or a great day with the family enjoying the playgrounds and ball fields, there’s something for everyone at Waterloo Parks.

For a complete list of parks and amenities, visit: http://waterlooleisureservices.org/parks/index.shtml