RiverLoop Amphitheatre & Expo Plaza, Waterloo Travel Guide

4.6 (322)

Waterloo's premier outdoor venue on the Cedar River, hosting concerts, events, and community gatherings in a scenic downtown setting.

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RiverLoop Amphitheatre & Expo Plaza

The RiverLoop Amphitheatre & Expo Plaza in Waterloo, Iowa, is a vibrant outdoor venue on the Cedar River, hosting concerts, festivals, and community events. With seating for up to 1,200, the amphitheater features a striking steel-frame structure with a fabric roof. The adjacent Expo Plaza offers flexible space for markets and activities, making it a central gathering place in downtown Waterloo.

A brief summary to RiverLoop Amphitheatre & Expo Plaza

225 Commercial St, Waterloo, Iowa, 50701, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring RiverLoop Amphitheatre & Expo Plaza.

Check the local events calendar for free concerts, movie nights, and festivals at the RiverLoop Amphitheatre & Expo Plaza.
Bring a blanket or lawn chair for comfortable seating during outdoor performances.
Arrive early for popular events, as parking can be challenging.
Enjoy the splash pad and play area at Mark's Park, next to the amphitheater, if you're visiting with kids.

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Explore RiverLoop Amphitheatre & Expo Plaza on the Map

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Getting There

Walking

From the Waterloo Center for the Arts, walk east on Commercial Street towards the Cedar River. The RiverLoop Amphitheatre & Expo Plaza will be on your right, adjacent to the river. The walk is short and direct, approximately 5 minutes.
Public Transport

MET Transit serves the downtown Waterloo area. Check the MET Transit website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. Several routes have stops near the Waterloo Center for the Arts or the downtown transfer station, which are both within walking distance of the RiverLoop Amphitheatre & Expo Plaza. A single ride fare is $1.50.
Driving

From most points in Waterloo, follow signs to downtown. The RiverLoop Amphitheatre & Expo Plaza is located at 225 Commercial Street. Parking is available at the Waterloo Center for the Arts and under the Hwy 218 overpass for free. The Commercial Street parking ramp is also available for $5. Be aware that parking can be limited during large events.

Discover more about RiverLoop Amphitheatre & Expo Plaza

The RiverLoop Amphitheatre & Expo Plaza is a cornerstone of Waterloo's revitalized downtown, offering a scenic and dynamic space for a variety of events. Located on the banks of the Cedar River, the amphitheater provides a unique outdoor setting for concerts, performances, and community celebrations. The venue can accommodate up to 1,200 people in its general seating area and up to 1,000 people overall.The amphitheater's design is visually striking, featuring a steel-frame structure with a fabric roof, designed to withstand potential floodwaters. This unique structure, combined with the riverfront setting, creates a memorable experience for performers and audiences alike. The adjacent Expo Plaza provides flexible outdoor space for vendors, markets, and other activities, enhancing the area's appeal as a central gathering place.The RiverLoop project, which includes the amphitheater and expo plaza, was part of a larger downtown revitalization effort called "River Renaissance". This initiative aimed to reconnect the city with the Cedar River and create a vibrant destination for residents and visitors. Today, the RiverLoop Amphitheatre & Expo Plaza hosts a diverse range of events, from free summer concerts and movie nights to food truck festivals and community celebrations. The location also features Mark's Park, which includes a splash pad and play structures for children.