Hotels in Waterloo

Waterloo: Where Waterfalls Whisper and Minds Flourish

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Waterloo is a vibrant city brimming with cultural gems and natural beauty. Home to the renowned University of Northern Iowa, it offers a lively arts scene and engaging events year-round. Discover the enchanting waterfalls at Cedar Falls and explore the scenic trails along the Cedar River. Waterloo's rich history comes alive in its museums, while local eateries serve up delicious Midwestern cuisine. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, Waterloo promises an unforgettable experience steeped in charm and community spirit. For our best hotel rates in Waterloo and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Waterloo

Waterloo, Iowa offers a variety of hotel accommodations suitable for all types of travellers. With options ranging from budget-friendly inns to more upscale suites, most hotels provide comfortable amenities and convenient locations near local attractions. Room rates can vary, but guests can generally find affordable options. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, Waterloo's hotels ensure a pleasant stay, making it easy to explore the charming city and surrounding areas. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Waterloo:

1. Isle Casino Hotel - WaterlooOpens in a new window: This 3-star hotel is well-situated for those looking to experience both business amenities and casino entertainment. Located conveniently in Waterloo, it provides easy access to local attractions and offers business services such as multiple meeting rooms and conference space. Guests can enjoy the on-site or nearby casino for added leisure during their stay.
2. Courtyard by Marriott Waterloo Cedar FallsOpens in a new window: Another great 3-star option in Waterloo, this hotel caters primarily to business travellers, offering a variety of professional amenities. It features a meeting room, an accessible business centre, and conference space, ensuring you have everything needed for a productive stay. Its central location makes it a perfect choice for those needing to navigate the city easily.
3. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Waterloo Cedar FallsOpens in a new window: This 3-star hotel is designed for business travellers, providing essential services like a 24-hour business centre and meeting rooms. With its accessible business amenities, it ensures that your work needs are well catered for. Situated in a convenient area of Waterloo, this hotel allows guests to explore the city while enjoying comfortable accommodations.

Things to do in Waterloo for first times

Three days in Waterloo offer a delightful mix of natural beauty and vibrant activities. Enjoy scenic parks and serene lakes ideal for hiking and boating, while the lively atmosphere beckons with opportunities for dancing, football, shopping, and live music, making it a captivating destination for all travellers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Waterloo:

• Day 1: Begin your exploration at the John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum, where you can dive into the fascinating history of agricultural machinery. Next, stroll over to the Waterloo Center for the Arts to admire various art exhibits and perhaps catch a local performance. Conclude your day at the Grout Museum of History, which offers insights into the region's past and features engaging exhibits that are both educational and entertaining.
• Day 2: Start your day with some thrills at Lost Island Theme Park, where exciting rides and water attractions await. After a fun-filled morning, head to the Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, where you can wander through beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Wrap up your day at the Waterloo Dog Park, perfect for some relaxation and perhaps a chance to meet some friendly local pups while you unwind.
• Day 3: Kick off your day in Cedar Falls Community Main Street, where you can explore charming shops and local cafes. Take a leisurely stroll to Beason-Boomer Park, a lovely spot to enjoy the outdoors and maybe partake in some recreational activities. Finally, spend your afternoon at George Wyth Memorial State Park, where you can hike, bike, or simply relax by the water, soaking in the beauty of nature before concluding your Waterloo adventure.

4 tips to find a great Waterloo hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Waterloo is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For international travellers, it’s advisable to book your flight at least 3 months in advance to secure more affordable rates. Domestic travellers should aim to book at least 1 month ahead for better prices. To fully appreciate the city's main attractions, such as the university and scenic waterfalls, a stay of at least 2-3 days is ideal. This way, you can enjoy great value for money while exploring Waterloo’s highlights.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Waterloo, Hotels.com is a great resource. To uncover potential discounts, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on their website. You might find attractive hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions, helping you maximise your chances of scoring the best hotel deals.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As such, being flexible with your travel dates could mean you may save on hotel expenses in Waterloo.
4. Consider your location: When booking your holiday accommodation on Hotels.com, it's important to consider your location. Staying nearer to key attractions or city centres can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, explore hotels in less central neighbourhoods, keeping in mind the balance between cost and the ease of accessing the sites you plan to visit.

Best time to go to Waterloo

Waterloo experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 18.5°F (-7.5°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 72.5°F (22.5°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Waterloo are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, April, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.