Waterloo

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Waterloo's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Waterloo
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Visit the Waterloo Center for the Arts for a dose of culture and creativity.

afternoon
:

Head to the local farmers market to sample fresh produce and handmade goods. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the nearby parks.

evening
:

Dine at a popular restaurant in town and experience local cuisine. End your evening with a movie at a nearby theater.

day 2
Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Kick off with a canoeing session at George Wyth State Park. Enjoy the scenic beauty while paddling on the water.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch at the park and explore the hiking trails. Take in the sights and sounds of nature around you.

evening
:

Relax at a local brewery or pub for some craft beer. Enjoy live music or trivia night to wrap up the day.

day 3
Shopping Day
morning
:

Spend your morning visiting local boutiques and shops downtown. Discover unique souvenirs and handmade crafts.

afternoon
:

Take a break for lunch at a trendy café, then continue shopping at the nearby mall. Don't forget to check out the sales!

evening
:

Unwind at a nice restaurant for dinner. Catch a live performance at a local music venue to enjoy Waterloo's nightlife.

day 4
Art and History
morning
:

Start your day at the Grout Museum District, focusing on regional history. Explore the interactive exhibits and learn something new.

afternoon
:

Visit the community's art galleries to appreciate local artists. Take a guided tour for more in-depth insights.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a historic site turned restaurant. Attend a local theater production for an entertaining night out.

day 5
Thrilling Sports
morning
:

Have breakfast before heading to the local sports complex for some exciting activities. You can try rock climbing or a fitness class.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at a nearby sports bar and watch a game with locals. Join an afternoon game of your favorite sport at a nearby field.

evening
:

Have dinner at a restaurant known for its sports atmosphere. If there’s a game happening, cheer for the local team!

day 6
Nature Escape
morning
:

Begin your day with a tranquil nature walk in a nearby park. The fresh air and scenic views set a peaceful tone.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch to enjoy amidst the trees. Spend your afternoon birdwatching or taking photographs of the wildlife.

evening
:

Return to town for a relaxed dinner at a quaint restaurant. End your night with a nightcap at a cozy bar.

day 7
Culinary Delights
morning
:

Visit a local bakery for breakfast treats and coffee. Explore the local food scene on a guided food tour.

afternoon
:

Enjoy sampling various dishes and learning about local culinary traditions. Stop by a food truck for a casual lunch.

evening
:

Dine at a fine dining restaurant that offers a unique tasting menu. Try to save room for dessert at a nearby ice cream shop.

day 8
Local Events
morning
:

Check the community calendar for any events or festivals happening today. Join a local yoga class or community workout.

afternoon
:

Attend workshops or live demonstrations occurring at the events. Mingle with locals and learn more about the culture.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a food stall or takeout option from the event. Participate in the evening festivities and entertainment.

day 9
Stargazing Evening
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before preparing for an evening of stargazing. Research local observatories or astronomy groups.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon visiting the local science center to learn more about stars and planets. Participate in any hands-on exhibits.

evening
:

Set up for stargazing in a nice open area with a blanket and snacks. Spend hours enjoying the night sky and identifying constellations.

day 10
Biking Adventure
morning
:

Rent a bike and explore the scenic trails that Waterloo has to offer. Enjoy the fresh air and morning sunshine.

afternoon
:

Stop for a picnic lunch at a rest area on the trail. Continue biking to cover more ground and discover hidden gems.

evening
:

Return to town for a hearty dinner to refuel after an active day. Share stories of your adventures at a local gathering spot.

Discover Waterloo

Read more in our Waterloo 2024 Travel Guide.

Waterloo Travel Guide