Outdoor Weekend

Start your adventure downtown with breakfast before hitting the trail. Grab a sweet or savory crepe from Tata Yaya, or settle in for a coffee and a breakfast burrito at Cottonwood Canyon “The House.” Downtown is compact and walkable, making it easy to fuel up and get rolling.

The Cedar River Loop is one of the best ways to experience the Cedar Valley by bike. This 17-mile route links Cedar Falls and Waterloo, combining river views, wooded trails, local attractions, and a few fun stops along the way.

One of the first highlights is Gateway River Park. Pause for a few minutes to watch the surf on the Cedar River, snap photos from the overlooks, and enjoy one of the area’s most unique outdoor scenes.

Continue along the Cedar Valley Lakes Trail as the route winds toward George Wyth State Park. Expect shaded stretches, open views, and some of the most scenic riding in the region. Along the way you’ll pass the northernmost point of the American Discovery Trail, one of the country’s longest national trail routes.

By midday, you’ve earned a break. Cross into Waterloo and stop at SingleSpeed Brewing/The Tap Room at Wonderbread for lunch and a local craft beer.

Choose from flatbreads, tacos, wings, and other favorites before trying the Panther Prowl, a collaboration beer that supports University of Northern Iowa student-athletes. The relaxed atmosphere makes it an easy place to recharge before heading back onto the trail.

After lunch, hop onto the South Riverside Trail and make your way toward Hartman Reserve Nature Center.

This 340-acre natural area feels surprisingly remote despite being only minutes from downtown. Park your bike and explore the walking trails beneath a canopy of mature trees. Depending on the season, you may spot deer, foxes, turtles, or even river otters while wandering through the woods.

As the day winds down, head back into downtown Cedar Falls for shopping, dining, and a well-earned evening off the bike.

Browse local boutiques, outdoor gear shops, bookstores, and specialty stores along Main Street. If your bike needs a quick adjustment—or you simply want to swap trail stories with locals—stop into Bike Tech before dinner.

When hunger strikes, choose from cozy patios, local pubs, and chef-driven restaurants throughout the district. During summer and fall, check the River Place Plaza schedule for outdoor concerts and community events that often fill the downtown with music and energy.

Stay where the trails, restaurants, and downtown attractions are all within easy reach.

Consider the historic charm of the Black Hawk Hotel for a boutique experience downtown, or choose Hampton Inn Cedar Falls Downtown for riverfront views, a pool, and complimentary breakfast before another day on the trails.

Start your second day with a hearty brunch at Big Foot Betty’s. This local favorite serves generous portions that pair perfectly with a mid-morning ride.

Today’s route explores another side of Cedar Falls.

Beginning near Tourist Park, this 8.3-mile loop follows the Cedar River toward Big Woods Lake Recreation Area and Black Hawk Park before returning to town. The ride blends river views, prairie landscapes, wooded stretches, and quiet residential streets into one easy-to-follow route.

As you ride along Cottage Row, take time to admire the historic riverfront homes overlooking the Cedar River. It’s one of the most scenic stretches in the city and feels worlds away from everyday traffic.

Continue toward Black Hawk Park, one of Iowa’s largest county parks, where wide-open green spaces and peaceful river scenery create a perfect excuse for a short break. Continue on the trail back toward Big Woods Lake.  This loop showcases a prairie restoration area where you will enjoy native plants, seasonal blooms, and a fairly active stretch of trail.

After another successful ride, reward yourself with a stop at Cedar City Creamery.

Choose from more than two dozen ice cream flavors, fresh-baked cookies, and other sweet treats. Grab your cone and enjoy a leisurely walk through downtown while taking in public art, sculptures, and colorful murals scattered throughout the district.

Spend your final evening exploring the downtown district at your own pace.

Browse a few more local shops, relax on a patio, and soak in the easygoing college-town atmosphere that comes from being home to the University of Northern Iowa.

For dinner, choose a local favorite like George’s Local, Whiskey Road, Tony’s La Pizzeria, or Urban Pie. Whether you’re craving burgers, pizza, or something a little more upscale, you’ll find plenty of options within a few walkable blocks.

After dinner, stop into Second State Brewing for a nightcap or take one final stroll along Main Street before calling it a weekend.