Dozen Distinctive Destinations
Cedar Falls, Iowa
Year Listed: 2010
Situated in a picturesque bend in the Cedar River, Cedar Falls, Iowa offers an impressive mix of shopping, dining, entertainment and cultural activities, from eclectic shopping experiences along its historic Main Street to the many recreational opportunities in the surrounding forests, lakes and prairie preserves. Cedar Falls' Main Street is a national model, a winner of the Great American Main Street Award that hums with activity nearly round the clock. In addition to its retail offerings, the historic downtown has been certified by the state of Iowa as an "Arts and Cultural District."
Cultural Heritage
Cedar Falls has an abundance of historic charm and character and much of the city has been lovingly preserved by locals throughout the years. A self-guided walking tour of Main Street reveals several examples of public and private buildings – including a historic theater with live performances, a National Register historic hotel, and a circa 1874 bank-turned-bakery and restaurant that has been in operation since 1948 – that have been restored to their original glory or adapted as Cedar Falls looks to its future. Additionally, five museums stand in the downtown district and offer visitors a glimpse into life in this river city at the turn of the century.
Recreation
Active vacationers will enjoy the city's ample recreational opportunities; walking and biking enthusiasts can explore the city's historic downtown on foot, or venture out into the surrounding area for a hike or a kayak excursion on the Cedar River. Biking opportunities abound in and around Cedar Falls – the only town in Iowa dubbed a "Bike Friendly City" by the American League of cyclists – with a remarkable 80 miles of off-road paved trails winding around the city's outskirts. And in winter, many of those same paths are transformed into cross-country ski trails.
Going Green in Cedar Falls
The City of Cedar Falls is a progressive town with multiple efforts toward sustainability. The city benefits from being the home of the University of Northern Iowa, which hosts the State of Iowa's Center for Energy & Environmental Education. From responsible food systems to energy conservation and renewability, Cedar Falls acts as a demonstration laboratory for many of their programs. Economic development organizations banded together in 2009 to sponsor a Cedar Valley Green Certified Business program that provides a pathway for businesses to assess their green practices and plan for a steady change towards a more sustainable future.
Don't Miss:
To plan your trip and learn more about Cedar Falls, visit Cedar Falls Downtown or Cedar Falls Tourism.
