Cedar Falls IA

Cedar Falls – Nestled along the banks of the Cedar River, this charming Iowa city blends small-town warmth with big-city energy. Home to the University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls is a hub for arts, education, and Midwestern hospitality. Whether you're taking a scenic bike ride along the trails, enjoying live music downtown, or exploring its vibrant local shops and eateries, Cedar Falls welcomes you with open arms and friendly smiles.

• Population: ~40,000
• Weather: Four distinct seasons; snowy winters and warm, sunny summers (20-85°F)
• Places To Visit: Downtown Cedar Falls, Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center, Cedar Valley Nature Trail, Hearst Center for the Arts, Big Woods Lake
• Top Activities: Biking and hiking scenic trails, shopping local boutiques, attending UNI Panther games, kayaking on the river, enjoying local brews and farm-to-table dining
• Famous Food: Farm-fresh breakfasts at Barn Happy, wood-fired pizza at Tony’s Pizzeria, craft beer at SingleSpeed Brewing, and sweet treats from Scratch Cupcakery

Cedar Falls, IA is a growing city with a diverse economy fueled by education, manufacturing, technology, and healthcare. Home to the University of Northern Iowa and several large employers, the city offers promising career opportunities for both new graduates and experienced professionals. Below are the top 5 in-demand jobs in Cedar Falls based on current employment trends, industry growth, and average salary.

Cedar Falls, IA might be a college town, but it’s also full of fun and relaxing spots where students can unplug from campus life. Whether you're attending the University of Northern Iowa or just passing through, this small city has more to offer than you might think. From cozy coffee shops to riverside trails, here’s where students love to chill, recharge, and have a good time in Cedar Falls.

College Hill District – Located just steps from UNI’s campus, this is the go-to hangout area for students. Grab a slice at Kwik Star Pizza, sip a latte at Sidecar Coffee, or catch some live music at Octopus College Hill. It has that cool, laid-back vibe that’s perfect after classes.

George Wyth State Park – If you’re looking for fresh air and nature, this park is a gem. Rent a kayak, ride your bike through the trails, or just sit by the lake and breathe. It’s a peaceful escape when studying gets a little too stressful.

Cup of Joe – This local coffee shop is a favorite among students. The warm lighting, vintage decor, and killer espresso make it the perfect spot to study by day and hang out by night. Plus, their scones are legendary.

Main Street Downtown Cedar Falls – With twinkling lights and a mix of indie shops, restaurants, and bars, Main Street feels like something out of a cozy movie. You can browse for books, grab sushi, or enjoy ice cream with your friends after class. It’s chill and full of charm.

UNI’s Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center – When you’re in the mood for live entertainment, this is the place to be. From Broadway shows to comedy nights and student performances, there’s always something happening that helps you unwind without leaving town.

The Hearst Center for the Arts – For a more low-key afternoon, this place is perfect. Admission is free, and you can stroll through local art exhibits, check out a poetry reading, or even join a painting class. It’s creative, calming, and student-friendly.

Overman Park – Right near downtown, this scenic little park often hosts summer concerts, festivals, and even food truck nights. On quieter days, just bring a blanket, a good book, and enjoy the sunshine.

Cedar Falls may be a small city, but it brings big energy when it comes to student life. Whether you’re looking to explore, relax, or catch up with friends, you’ll find plenty of spaces that feel like your own. The trick is just to get out there and enjoy it.

Cedar Falls, IA, is a vibrant college town offering students and lifelong learners top-notch academic institutions. Whether you’re seeking a practical associate degree or an in-depth research university experience, you'll find a range of reputable schools known for their educational excellence, supportive communities, and commitment to student success.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Cedar Falls

University of Northern Iowa (UNI) – The educational heart of Cedar Falls, UNI is Iowa’s third largest public university. It is renowned for its teacher education, business, and arts programs, as well as strong research opportunities and a tight-knit campus community. UNI consistently ranks among the Midwest’s best public institutions.

Hawkeye Community College – Cedar Falls Center – Serving non-traditional students and those seeking flexible pathways, Hawkeye Community College’s Cedar Falls Center offers general education, adult learning, and career preparation programs that make higher education accessible and affordable.

North Iowa Area Community College (Outreach in Cedar Falls) – While based in Mason City, NIACC offers courses and programs in the Cedar Falls area, including workforce development and continuing education for adults and professionals.

Kirkwood Community College (Concurrent Enrollment) – Kirkwood partners with local high schools in Cedar Falls to offer dual-credit classes, giving students a head start on college and technical careers in a supportive environment.

Waterloo Career Center (Near Cedar Falls) – While not a traditional college, this public center offers high school and adult students in the Cedar Valley region, including Cedar Falls, technical training in fields like healthcare, business, and information technology.

Top Private Colleges & Universities Near Cedar Falls

Upper Iowa University – Waterloo Center – Just minutes from Cedar Falls, Upper Iowa University offers flexible, adult-friendly undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Its reputation for personalized support and innovative online options make it a top private choice in the region.

Allen College (Waterloo, IA) – Focused on health sciences, Allen College excels in nursing, radiography, and public health degrees, serving Cedar Falls students with a hands-on, caring approach and strong connections to healthcare employers in the Cedar Valley.

Wartburg College (Waverly, IA) – Located about 15 minutes north of Cedar Falls, Wartburg is a highly respected private liberal arts college. Known for its music, business, education, and science programs, Wartburg stands out for its welcoming campus culture and global learning experiences.

Divine Word College (Epworth, IA – Regional Impact) – Though a bit farther away, this private Catholic institution has a significant regional presence, preparing students for international missionary service, intercultural ministry, and theological studies.

Northwestern College (Orange City, IA – Online & Regional Offerings) – Northwestern provides online and regional graduate-level courses accessible to adult learners in Cedar Falls, especially in education and leadership fields.

Choosing a college in or near Cedar Falls means joining a community dedicated to educational excellence, career readiness, and personal growth. Each of these institutions has its own unique strengths, so you can find a perfect fit for your academic goals and dreams!

Cedar Falls, Iowa, is home to a community that values education and is committed to student success. Whether you're a new resident or just exploring schooling options, this charming city offers excellent choices in both public and private high schools. Here’s a look at the top five in each category based on academics, student support, extracurricular programs, and college readiness.

Top Public High Schools in Cedar Falls, IA

• Cedar Falls High School – The flagship public high school in the area, Cedar Falls High is known for its strong academic performance, dedicated teachers, and a broad range of AP and dual credit courses. The school also boasts impressive extracurriculars from athletics to robotics.
• Peet Junior High School (Grades 7–9) – Though technically a junior high, many students start their high school-level coursework here. Peet prepares students for the transition to Cedar Falls High with a strong foundation in academics and student leadership.
• Holmes Junior High School (Grades 7–9) – Another preparatory school for high school-level academics, Holmes offers strong programs in STEM, the arts, and physical education, setting students up for future academic success.
• Hudson High School (Neighboring District) – Just a short drive from Cedar Falls, Hudson High is a small but high-performing district school. With personalized instruction and strong community ties, it serves many Cedar Falls area families seeking a tight-knit school environment.
• Waterloo West High School (Nearby Option) – Located in nearby Waterloo, this public school offers a wide curriculum including AP classes and career and technical education pathways, providing Cedar Falls families with an alternative public education option.

Top Private High Schools in Cedar Falls, IA

• Valley Lutheran High School – A well-respected Christian school, Valley Lutheran offers a faith-based education with a strong academic core. The school emphasizes character development, critical thinking, and service-oriented learning experiences.
• Don Bosco High School (Nearby in Gilbertville) – This Catholic high school is popular among Cedar Falls families. Known for its close-knit community and commitment to spiritual and academic growth, it also has a competitive athletics program.
• St. Patrick Catholic School (Up to Grade 8, with High School Collaborations) – While not a full high school itself, many students from St. Patrick transition into private high schools nearby, having received solid academic and moral preparation during their earlier years.
• Isaiah Institute High School – A small, faith-based private school focused on personalized instruction and moral education. Its mission is to shape students into thoughtful, engaged citizens grounded in Christian principles.
• Waterloo Christian School (Neighboring Community) – Just outside Cedar Falls, this accredited private school serves students from pre-K through high school. It combines rigorous academics with a Biblical worldview, making it a favorite choice for families seeking a Christ-centered education.

Choosing the right high school is a big decision. Cedar Falls offers diverse options, each with its own strengths and community values. Whether you’re looking for academic rigor, faith-based instruction, or smaller class sizes, the schools in and around Cedar Falls are committed to helping students thrive.

Cedar Falls, Iowa is a charming Midwestern city known for its vibrant college sports scene and community spirit. While it doesn't host any major professional sports franchises like NFL, NBA, or MLB teams, it plays an important role in fostering local athletic pride and developing future stars. The city thrives on its deep-rooted love for sports, mainly through collegiate athletics and nearby regional professional teams.

However, Cedar Falls residents are never too far from exciting professional action. Thanks to its central Iowa location, it enjoys close proximity to several professional teams in nearby cities—making it easy for fans to support their favorite teams in person or from afar.

College Athletics – University of Northern Iowa Panthers (NCAA Division I)

• Football – The UNI Panthers football team competes in the Missouri Valley Football Conference, part of the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). The team has a strong reputation, with multiple playoff appearances and alumni who went on to play in the NFL, such as Kurt Warner, the Hall of Fame quarterback and Super Bowl MVP.
• Basketball – The UNI men’s basketball team gained national attention with their memorable upset over Kansas in the 2010 NCAA Tournament. Known for their scrappy playing style and passionate fan base, they are consistent contenders in the Missouri Valley Conference.
• Wrestling – UNI also has a proud wrestling program, competing in the Big 12 Conference. The Panthers produce top-tier talent and frequently rank among the nation’s elite in collegiate wrestling.

Nearby Professional Sports Teams

• Minnesota Vikings (NFL) – Based in Minneapolis, just over 3 hours from Cedar Falls, the Vikings have a loyal fan base in Iowa. They’ve appeared in four Super Bowls and regularly remain playoff contenders.
• Chicago Bears (NFL) – Many Cedar Falls residents are also devoted Bears fans. Chicago is reachable within a few hours, and the team has a storied history, including a Super Bowl win in 1985 with their legendary defense.
• Iowa Cubs (Triple-A, MLB Affiliate) – Located in Des Moines (about 2 hours south), the Iowa Cubs are the Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. They offer a fun and affordable way to see future MLB stars in action, perfect for a summer family outing.
• Iowa Barnstormers (Indoor Football League) – Also based in Des Moines, this team features fast-paced football action in an exciting indoor format. They’re known for launching the career of Kurt Warner before he became an NFL icon.
• Iowa Wild (AHL) – As the AHL affiliate of the NHL's Minnesota Wild, the Iowa Wild play in Des Moines and offer high-caliber hockey just a short drive away from Cedar Falls.

So while Cedar Falls itself doesn’t host major league franchises, its sports fans are surrounded by incredible teams just hours away. With local pride found in every UNI Panthers game and easy access to Midwest sports powerhouses, residents never have to look far for thrilling moments on the field or court. Whether it’s Saturday game day in town or a weekend road trip to a big league stadium, Cedar Falls’ sports spirit is always running strong.

Cedar Falls, Iowa is more than just a college town—it's a vibrant place packed with charm, innovation, and natural beauty. Whether you're a local, a student at UNI, or just passing through, there’s always something interesting to learn about this Midwestern gem. Here are 10 fun facts about Cedar Falls that might surprise you:

1. Home to the Panthers – Cedar Falls is home to the University of Northern Iowa (UNI), a public university known for its strong education and business programs, as well as a proud Division I sports presence.
2. From Cedar to High Tech – Despite its modest size, the city has been ranked among the top "Gigabit Cities" in America, offering ultra-fast internet thanks to local utility provider CFU.
3. Lights, Camera, Iowa – The 2009 film The Final Season, based on a true story about high school baseball, had scenes filmed right here in the Cedar Valley area.
4. Historic Downtown Charm – Cedar Falls' Downtown District is one of the most vibrant in Iowa, with restored brick buildings housing everything from boutique shops to cozy coffee spots.
5. Bikes Welcome – The city is part of Iowa’s largest paved trail system that connects over 100 miles of trails, making it a haven for cyclists and runners alike.
6. It’s Electric! – Cedar Falls Utilities was among the first municipally owned utility companies in the U.S. to offer fiber internet—talk about forward thinking!
7. Ice House Museum Surprise – There's a whole museum in an actual historic ice house that once stored large blocks of ice cut from the frozen Cedar River.
8. Art Is Everywhere – The community celebrates creativity with frequent public art installations and unique murals that brighten up the streets.
9. Prairie Home Roots – The surrounding prairie landscape is rich with native grasses and wildflowers, and the Hartman Reserve Nature Center protects much of it right in the city.
10. Holiday Hoopla – Each winter, the city hosts Holiday Hoopla, a festive downtown celebration complete with a Santa parachute entrance and a magical lighted display.