Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens: A Horticultural Haven
Discover diverse gardens, educational programs, and natural beauty at this Waterloo, Iowa, horticultural haven for all ages.
Escape the everyday at the Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, a verdant sanctuary located in Waterloo, Iowa. Founded in 1996, the 40-acre Arboretum strives to enrich lives through horticulture, environmental stewardship, and the celebration of Iowa's natural heritage. Explore a diverse collection of themed gardens, each offering a unique experience. Discover the beauty of the award-winning Children's Garden, a whimsical space with playhouses and interactive exhibits. Wander through the four-acre Butterfly Meadow, a haven for pollinators. Admire the colorful blooms of the Rose Garden and the Stout Daylily Collection. Unique mosaicultures and sculptures add an artistic touch to the landscape. The Arboretum hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including educational programs, garden tours, and musical performances. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens offers something for everyone. It's a place to learn about plants, connect with nature, and appreciate the beauty of the natural world. The Arboretum's mission is to enhance the quality of life for all individuals through horticulture. It serves as a compelling public resource for the study of plants, a leader in environmental stewardship, a cultural center for the community, and a showcase of Iowa's rich heritage with the land.
Local tips
- Check the Arboretum's event calendar for upcoming workshops, concerts, and family activities.
- Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the gardens and the unique mosaiculture displays.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the garden paths and exploring the grounds.
- Visit during different seasons to experience the changing colors and blooms of the gardens.
A brief summary to Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens
- 1927 E Orange Rd, Waterloo, Iowa, 50701, US
- +1319-226-4966
Getting There
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Driving
The Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens is located at 1927 E Orange Rd, Waterloo, IA. From Highway 20, take the Hawkeye Road exit (Exit 230) and head south. After approximately three miles, turn left onto East Orange Road. The Arboretum will be on your left, just past Hawkeye Community College. Parking is available on-site. Limited parking may be available during peak events. There is no parking fee.
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Public Transport
The Metropolitan Transit Authority (Met Transit) provides bus service in the Waterloo-Cedar Falls area. Check the Met Transit website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules to reach the Arboretum. From the nearest bus stop, a short walk may be required to reach the Arboretum entrance. A single ride fare is typically around $1.25.
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Ride Share
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Waterloo. Request a ride to 1927 E Orange Rd, Waterloo, IA. Typical fares from downtown Waterloo or Cedar Falls range from $10-$20, depending on demand and distance.
