RiverLoop Expo Plaza, Waterloo Travel Guide

Experience community events and scenic riverfront views at Waterloo's vibrant RiverLoop Expo Plaza, a hub for festivals, markets, and entertainment.

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RiverLoop Expo Plaza

The RiverLoop Expo Plaza in Waterloo, Iowa, is a vibrant outdoor space along the Cedar River. It hosts various community events, from concerts and festivals to farmers' markets, and features decorative landscaping and architectural details. With its scenic views and central location, it's a popular destination for both residents and visitors.

A brief summary to RiverLoop Expo Plaza

Waterloo, Iowa, US

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Check the local events calendar for upcoming festivals, concerts, and markets at the RiverLoop Expo Plaza.
Bring a blanket or lawn chair for comfortable seating during outdoor events.
Explore the nearby RiverLoop Bike Trail for a scenic ride along the Cedar River.

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Explore RiverLoop Expo Plaza on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near RiverLoop Expo Plaza, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Waterloo Center for the Arts, walk east along E 4th Street, then turn right onto Jefferson Street. The RiverLoop Expo Plaza will be on your right, at the corner of Park Avenue and Jefferson Street. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. No costs are associated with walking.
Public Transport

The MET Transit Route 7 has a stop at the corner of Jefferson St and E 4th St, which is directly adjacent to the RiverLoop Expo Plaza. A single ride fare is $1.25.
Taxi/Ride-share

From downtown Waterloo, a taxi or ride-share to the RiverLoop Expo Plaza will typically cost between $5 and $10, depending on the distance and demand.

Discover more about RiverLoop Expo Plaza

RiverLoop Expo Plaza serves as a central gathering place in downtown Waterloo, Iowa. This two-block outdoor exposition center, located at the corner of Park Avenue and Jefferson Street, is utilized for a wide array of public and private events. The plaza is part of the city's River Renaissance project, which aimed to revitalize the downtown and riverfront area.Originally the site of blighted properties, including an auto parts store and a lawn maintenance facility, the area underwent significant transformation. The city acquired and demolished these properties, addressing environmental concerns such as leaking underground storage tanks, to make way for the Expo Plaza. The project was funded through a combination of sources, including grants from the Iowa Department of Economic Development, the Waterloo Development Corporation, the City of Waterloo, and the Black Hawk County Gaming Association.The RiverLoop Expo Plaza now features decorative pavers, landscaping, fencing, and lighting, creating an aesthetically pleasing environment for events. It hosts events such as My Waterloo Days, car shows, tractor shows, and weekly farmers' markets. The adjacent RiverLoop Amphitheater provides a performance space for concerts and other live entertainment. Mark's Park, located next to the Amphitheater, offers a splash pad and play structures for children. The RiverLoop area also includes bike trails and pedestrian walkways, enhancing recreational opportunities along the Cedar River.