Rensselaer Russell House Museum: A Victorian Gem
Experience Victorian elegance at the Rensselaer Russell House Museum, a beautifully preserved landmark in Waterloo, Iowa.
Step back in time at the Rensselaer Russell House Museum, a beautifully preserved Italianate-style Victorian home built in 1861. Explore the authentic interior, admire original family belongings, and stroll through picturesque Victorian gardens. It's a glimpse into the life of a prominent Waterloo family in the mid-19th century.
A brief summary to Rensselaer Russell House Museum
- 520 W 3rd St, Waterloo, Iowa, 50701, US
- +1319-234-6357
- Visit website
Local tips
- Call ahead to confirm hours and schedule a guided tour, as visits are by appointment only.
- Combine your visit with other attractions in the Grout Museum District, such as the Grout Museum of History and Science or the Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum.
- Check the Grout Museum District's website for special events and programming related to the Rensselaer Russell House Museum.
Getting There
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Walking
The Rensselaer Russell House Museum is located at 520 W 3rd St, in a residential area of Waterloo. If you are already downtown, for example near the MET Transit Central Transfer station at 416 Sycamore St, it's a pleasant walk of about 10-15 minutes. Head west on W 4th St, then turn left onto W 3rd St. The museum will be on your right. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
MET Transit, the local bus service, serves the Waterloo area. Check the MET Transit website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. Several routes have stops within a few blocks of the museum. A single ride fare is $1.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxi services like City Cab and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Waterloo. A ride from the Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO) to the museum, approximately 7 miles, would cost around $15-$25, depending on the service and demand.
Discover more about Rensselaer Russell House Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Snowden House
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Explore the elegant Snowden House in Waterloo, Iowa, where history, art, and beautiful gardens come together for a unique museum experience.
First Lady Lou Henry Hoover Sculpture Park
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Discover the life and legacy of First Lady Lou Henry Hoover through art and nature in this inspiring Waterloo sculpture park.
Cedar Valley Tattoo & Piercing Studio
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Waterloo's premier tattoo and piercing studio, where skilled artists create unique and meaningful body art in a clean and welcoming environment.
Big Head Burger
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Waterloo's Big Head Burger: Dream-inspired burgers, oversized flavors, and a dash of childhood nostalgia on every bite.
RiverLoop Expo Plaza
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Experience community events and scenic riverfront views at Waterloo's vibrant RiverLoop Expo Plaza, a hub for festivals, markets, and entertainment.
The Weis Mansion B&B
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Experience Victorian charm and modern comfort at The Weis Mansion B&B, a historic gem in Waterloo, Iowa, near the Grout Museum District.
La Placita Taqueria
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Experience authentic Mexican flavors at La Placita Taqueria in Waterloo, IA, where traditional cuisine meets a vibrant cultural atmosphere.
Broken Record
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Experience Waterloo's vibrant nightlife at Broken Record, a nostalgic bar with karaoke, affordable drinks, and a friendly atmosphere.
Eternal Ink Tattoos inc
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Waterloo's top-rated tattoo shop offering a wide range of styles and professional body piercing in a clean, welcoming environment.
Waterloo Convention Center
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Waterloo Convention Center: Premier event venue in downtown Waterloo, Iowa, hosting conventions, banquets, and meetings with modern amenities.
SingleSpeed Brewing Co.
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Experience craft beer and delicious food in a revitalized historic Wonder Bread factory. A unique Waterloo destination for beer lovers and community.
Toddler Town Playstation and Event Center
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A vibrant Waterloo play space where toddlers learn, explore, and socialize in a safe, stimulating environment. Perfect for playdates and parties!
Art Bloc
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Discover the artistic heartbeat of Waterloo, Iowa at Art Bloc, a vibrant apartment building that showcases local creativity and culture.
Cappella Magna
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Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Sistine Chapel in the heart of Iowa. Perfect for unforgettable events and artistic appreciation.
Young Arena
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Waterloo's premier multi-purpose arena, home to the Black Hawks, figure skating, wrestling events, and community gatherings since 1994.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bluedorn Science Imaginarium
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Explore the Bluedorn Science Imaginarium in Waterloo, Iowa, where interactive exhibits and hands-on learning spark curiosity for all ages.
Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum & Grout Museum of History & Science
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Discover the rich history of Iowa and honor its veterans at the Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum & Grout Museum of History & Science in Waterloo, Iowa.
Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area
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Explore Iowa's agricultural heritage at Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area, where history and culture come together in a unique experience.
Dan Gable Wrestling Museum
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Explore wrestling history and celebrate the sport's greatest icons at the Dan Gable Wrestling Museum in Waterloo, Iowa.
Phelps Youth Pavilion
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Ignite creativity and learning at Waterloo's Phelps Youth Pavilion, an interactive art and amusement center for children of all ages.
Waterloo Center for the Arts
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Discover the vibrant arts scene at the Waterloo Center for the Arts, a cultural gem in Iowa featuring exhibitions, live music, and community events.
John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum
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Discover the rich agricultural heritage at the John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum, a must-visit for history and technology enthusiasts in Waterloo, Iowa.
Hope Martin Memorial Park
2.0 km
Escape to nature in the heart of Waterloo at Hope Martin Memorial Park, offering recreation and relaxation for all.
Sunrise Children's Zoo
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Get up close with farm animals at Waterloo's Sunrise Children's Zoo! A fun, free, and interactive experience for the whole family.
National Cattle Congress
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Explore the National Cattle Congress in Waterloo, Iowa—where agriculture meets entertainment in a vibrant fairground setting.
Tibbitts Park
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Escape to nature in Waterloo's scenic Tibbitts Park, offering year-round outdoor activities and community events.
Geary Light Show
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Experience the magic of the Geary Light Show in Waterloo, Iowa, where vibrant lights dance to music for a spectacular evening of family fun.
Palmer's Family Fun
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Waterloo's ultimate family fun destination: Go-karts, mini-golf, archery tag, and more for an unforgettable day of laughter and excitement!
Lost Island Waterpark & Adventure Golf & Go-Karts
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Experience a tropical getaway in the Midwest at Lost Island Waterpark, with thrilling slides, relaxing pools, and fun for the whole family!
Hartman Reserve Nature Center
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Explore diverse habitats and miles of trails at this Cedar Falls nature preserve, a haven for wildlife and outdoor education.
Essential places to dine
Carpenter's Diner
0.4 km
Experience classic American comfort food at Carpenter's Diner in Waterloo - where every bite tells a story.
Doughy Joey's Peetza Joynt
0.4 km
Experience the best pizza in Waterloo at Doughy Joey's Peetza Joynt - where flavor meets family-friendly dining.
Basal Pizza
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Discover the best pizza experience in Waterloo at Basal Pizza - where fresh ingredients meet irresistible flavors.
El Barco Mexican Seafood Bar & Grill
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Experience authentic Mexican cuisine with a seafood twist at El Barco Mexican Seafood Bar & Grill in Waterloo, Iowa.
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0.6 km
Experience the best of Waterloo's culinary scene with locally-sourced dishes and vibrant flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
The Brown Bottle
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Experience authentic Italian cuisine at The Brown Bottle in Waterloo - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
Pick Up N Go Soul Food
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Experience authentic soul food at Pick Up N Go Soul Food in Waterloo – where flavor meets tradition in every dish!
Starbeck's Smokehouse
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Discover the authentic taste of Iowa at Starbeck's Smokehouse - where barbecue dreams come true.
Gyro Hut
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Discover delicious Mediterranean flavors at Gyro Hut in Waterloo—home of authentic gyros and quick bites perfect for any traveler.
Newton's Paradise Cafe
0.9 km
Experience cozy dining at Newton's Paradise Cafe in Waterloo – where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Rodneys Kitchen
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Experience the best of American comfort food at Rodney's Kitchen in Waterloo – where every meal feels like home.
Hungry Charlie's Lunchbox
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Discover delicious sandwiches and a unique atmosphere at Hungry Charlie's Lunchbox in Waterloo, Iowa - perfect for every foodie!
The Comfort Zone Bar & Grill Waterloo,Iowa 50703
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Experience delicious comfort food at the Comfort Zone Bar & Grill in Waterloo - where great taste meets friendly service.
El Patron Family Mexican
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LINKYOTE LLC
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Experience the best of barbecue at LINKYOTE LLC in Waterloo – where every bite is packed with flavor!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
ShopNShipz
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Discover unique fashion treasures at ShopNShipz, Waterloo's premier clothing store reflecting local culture and style.
Epic Finds
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Discover unique and stylish furniture at Epic Finds in Waterloo, Iowa—a perfect destination for those seeking distinctive home decor.
Style Avenue
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Explore Style Avenue in Waterloo, IA - your ultimate destination for trendy clothing, stylish hats, and fashionable shoes.
Oh So In Boutique
0.5 km
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Pretty Good Co.
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Explore the creative world of Pretty Good Co., a premier print shop and design agency in Waterloo, Iowa, where your ideas come to life.
Studded With Love
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Explore the enchanting metaphysical supply store, Studded With Love, in Waterloo, Iowa - your destination for spiritual enlightenment and holistic wellness.
Soul Book Nook
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A & V Custom Designz
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PS Treasures and Collectibles
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The Ivy Trellis Cards & Gifts
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Tri-City Clothing
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Adult Arcades & Retail Store
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Romeo and Juliet's 08
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Milroy's Tuxedos - Waterloo Store and Warehouse
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Bonita Things Consignment
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Behar Bar
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Karma Bar
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Iron Horse saloon waterloo
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The Loft
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Ari'z Supper Club & Martini Lounge
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Smitty's Bar
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Fester's Pub
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Edo's Sports Bar
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Park Road Inn
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Locker Room Lounge
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SAC's Neighborhood Pub
2.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of SAC's Neighborhood Pub in Waterloo, where friendly locals and affordable drinks create an unforgettable experience.
Trucker Bar
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Trucker Bar in Waterloo, where great drinks, live music, and friendly faces come together.
Dad's Pub
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Dad's Pub in Waterloo, Iowa, offers a cozy atmosphere with diverse drinks and friendly service, perfect for a memorable night out.
Buzz's Bar
3.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and friendly service at Buzz's Bar in Waterloo, Iowa, your go-to spot for drinks and socializing.
Chasers Pub
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere and affordable drinks at Chasers Pub, a local favorite bar in Waterloo, perfect for tourists seeking a fun night out.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Flirt's Gentlemens Club
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Discover the electrifying nightlife at Flirt's Gentlemen's Club, Waterloo's premier destination for adult entertainment and unforgettable performances.
Club Ambassador
0.5 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit at Club Ambassador, Waterloo's hottest night club with unforgettable music, drinks, and vibrant atmosphere.
El Señor Tequila Night Club
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Dive into the lively nightlife of El Señor Tequila Night Club in Waterloo, Iowa, where vibrant music and crafted cocktails create unforgettable evenings.
Old Skool Lounge
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Discover the lively nightlife at Old Skool Lounge in Waterloo, where great music meets a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
club legacy
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Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Club Legacy in Waterloo, Iowa, where vibrant music and an electric atmosphere await.
Westside Lounge
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Discover the lively atmosphere and affordable drinks at Westside Lounge in Cedar Rapids, where great times and new friends await.
icnightlife
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Unleash your energy at Cedar Rapids' top night club, where unforgettable nights and lively entertainment come alive in the heart of Iowa.
Basix
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Discover Cedar Rapids' vibrant nightlife at Basix, the ultimate gay bar with lively entertainment and a welcoming atmosphere.
Linge Lounge
80.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Linge Lounge, Cedar Rapids' premier bar for cocktails, socializing, and unforgettable evenings.
Hazzard County American Saloon
80.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Hazzard County American Saloon, where great drinks and lively entertainment come together in Cedar Rapids.
Playtime Tap
80.4 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Playtime Tap in Cedar Rapids, where fun meets relaxation with drinks, games, and friendly competition.
Dancers Ranch
82.0 km
Dancers Ranch: A lively night club in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, offering unforgettable adult entertainment and vibrant nightlife experiences.
Woodys Show Club
87.2 km
Discover the thrilling nightlife at Woodys Show Club, Cedar Rapids' top destination for vibrant performances and a lively bar scene.
