Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, Waterloo Travel Guide

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Discover diverse gardens, tranquil paths, and natural beauty at this Waterloo, Iowa arboretum. A horticultural haven for all ages.

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Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens

Escape to the Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, a 40-acre oasis in Waterloo, Iowa, showcasing diverse plant collections, themed gardens, and tranquil walking paths. A perfect place for nature lovers of all ages to connect with the natural world and appreciate Iowa's rich horticultural heritage.

A brief summary to Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens

1927 E Orange Rd, Waterloo, Iowa, 50701, US
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Monday 9 am-6 pm
Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
Thursday 9 am-6 pm
Friday 9 am-6 pm
Saturday 9 am-6 pm
Sunday 11 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens.

Check the Arboretum's website for upcoming events, including concerts, educational programs, and family activities.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking the garden paths, and bring water, especially on warm days.
Visit during different seasons to experience the changing beauty of the gardens.
Consider becoming a member to enjoy free admission and support the Arboretum's mission.

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Explore Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens on the Map

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Getting There

Driving

The Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens is located at 1927 E Orange Rd, Waterloo, IA, directly east of Hawkeye Community College. From Highway 20, take the Hawkeye Road exit (Exit 230) and travel south for three miles. Turn left onto East Orange Road; the Arboretum will be on your left, past the college. Parking is available on-site in the Welcome Center parking lot. Parking is free.
Public Transport

The closest bus stop to the Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens is at Hawkeye Community College. From there, walk east along Orange Road for approximately 10 minutes to reach the Arboretum. Check the local Black Hawk County bus schedule for current routes and times. A single fare is around $1.25.

Discover more about Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens

The Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, located in Waterloo, Iowa, offers a 40-acre sanctuary dedicated to horticulture and environmental stewardship. Founded in 1996, the Arboretum's mission is to enhance the quality of life through horticulture, serving as a compelling public resource for plant study, a leader in environmental practices, a cultural hub, and a showcase of Iowa's heritage.The Arboretum features a diverse collection of gardens and natural areas. Visitors can explore the Hillside Welcome Garden with its water feature and cottage-style garden, the Shade Garden with its hosta varieties, and a four-acre Butterfly Conservation Meadow. Other highlights include the Rose Garden, Display Gardens filled with annuals and perennials, and a Labyrinth. A one-mile walking path meanders through the grounds, offering access to a prairie encompassing native grasses and forbs. The award-winning Children's Garden provides a space for kids to connect with nature.The Arboretum hosts various events throughout the year, including educational programs, concerts, and volunteer opportunities. The R.J. McElroy Education Center hosts children's programming and summer events. The Welcome Center houses staff offices and a gift shop.Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a learning experience, or a place to connect with nature, the Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens offers something for everyone.