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Main Street Waterloo: Revitalizing Downtown

Experience the heart of Waterloo: where historic charm meets modern innovation, community events, and local businesses.

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Main Street Waterloo is a dedicated organization focused on enhancing the vitality of downtown Waterloo, Iowa, through historic preservation, economic development, and community engagement. It serves as a hub for local businesses and community events.

A brief summary to Main Street Waterloo

Local tips

  • Check the Main Street Waterloo calendar for upcoming events and festivals.
  • Take advantage of the free one-hour parking available in downtown Waterloo.
  • Explore the RiverLoop Expo Plaza for outdoor events and activities.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Waterloo Center for the Arts, walk east on E 4th St toward Sycamore St. Turn left onto Sycamore St, then turn right onto E 5th St. Walk one block east. Main Street Waterloo will be on your left. No cost.

  • Public Transport

    From the central bus station, use the MET bus routes to reach downtown Waterloo. Check the bus schedules and routes on the MET website or app. The cost for a single ride is approximately $1.25.

  • Driving

    From Highway 218, exit onto 4th Street and head east. Continue on 4th Street until you reach the downtown area. Parking is available in various locations, including on-street parking and city parking ramps. The first hour of parking is free, with subsequent hours costing $1 per hour, and a daily maximum of $6 in parking ramps.

Unlock the Best of Main Street Waterloo

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Discover more about Main Street Waterloo

Main Street Waterloo is a non-profit organization committed to the revitalization and preservation of downtown Waterloo, Iowa. Designated as a Main Street community since 1996, it leverages the Main Street Approach to capitalize on the unique identity and historic character of the commercial district. The organization focuses on economic development within the context of historic preservation, implementing strategies through four key points: organization, promotion, design, and economic vitality. Downtown Waterloo is home to a growing community, with over 2,000 residents and 6,000 daytime workers contributing to a vibrant atmosphere. The district sees approximately $70 million in annual commerce and an average of $8 million in private reinvestment, demonstrating its economic importance. Main Street Waterloo actively connects with the community through relationship-building and collaboration, advocating for Waterloo's interests and unifying the community towards shared goals. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions and events in the downtown area, including the RiverLoop Expo Plaza, a flexible outdoor space hosting vendor markets and activities. Main Street Waterloo also supports numerous events throughout the year, such as the Food Truck Festival, live music events like FridayLoo and Riverloop Rhythms, and holiday celebrations. The organization also collaborates with the City of Waterloo to enhance downtown parking and accessibility.

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