By Chelsea Petersen, Executive Director, Waverly Chamber of Commerce & Main Street

Waverly, Iowa has a way of surprising people.

Visitors often arrive for a tournament, a college visit, or a quick stop along Highway 218. What they discover is a vibrant community full of unexpected experiences, historic charm, outdoor adventure, and locally owned businesses that give Waverly its unmistakable character.

As the county seat of Bremer County, Waverly serves as both the civic and cultural hub for the region. But beyond the courthouse and city hall, there are countless hidden gems that make our community special.

Here are just a few worth discovering.

Wartburg College: The Heartbeat of Waverly

One of the things that makes Waverly unique is its strong connection to Wartburg College.

This nationally respected liberal arts college brings arts, athletics, music, and global perspectives into our community every day. From concerts and theatre performances to nationally competitive athletic programs, Wartburg adds energy and opportunity to life in Waverly.

The beautiful campus is just a short walk from downtown, and its students, faculty, and alumni help create the vibrant “college town” atmosphere that defines our community.

Outdoor Adventure Right in Town

Many first-time visitors are surprised to learn just how much there is to do outdoors in Waverly.

The Cedar River winds through our community, providing scenic trails, kayaking opportunities, and beautiful riverfront parks. If you’re looking to get out on the water, CrawDaddy Outdoors in downtown Waverly is a great place to start. The locally owned outdoor shop connects visitors and locals alike to paddling, river adventures, and outdoor gear across northeast Iowa.

Disc golf enthusiasts can head to Brookwood Park, where an 18-hole course offers a fun challenge for beginners and seasoned players alike.

Golfers also enjoy having two 18-hole golf courses right here in Waverly, offering beautiful tree-lined fairways and welcoming clubhouses.

And for those who enjoy motorsports and outdoor recreation, Newy’s Moto reflects another side of Waverly’s adventurous spirit, serving riders and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the region.

With more than 20 parks and miles of recreational trails, it’s easy to spend an entire day exploring Waverly outside.

Historic Downtown: Where Local Businesses Shine

Waverly’s historic downtown along Bremer Avenue is full of locally owned businesses that make the community feel welcoming and vibrant.

The Palace Theatre

There’s something magical about catching a movie at the historic Palace Theatre. This beautifully restored downtown theater blends nostalgia with modern comfort, creating a unique moviegoing experience that you simply won’t find at a big multiplex.

Bremer Brewing Company

If you’re looking for a place where locals gather, you’ll likely find it at Bremer Brewing Company. What started as a home-brewing hobby has grown into a thriving craft brewery where friends meet, stories are shared, and new beers are always on tap.

Get Roasted Coffee Co. & thinkwell.

Morning in Waverly often begins with coffee downtown. Get Roasted Coffee Co. has become a favorite meeting place for everything from casual conversations to early-morning work sessions.

Just a few doors away, thinkwell. focuses on the art of roasting coffee in small batches, sourcing unique beans from around the world and bringing a craft approach to every cup.

Shopping & Dining

Downtown Waverly offers a variety of unique shopping and dining experiences.

You’ll find The Prairie Bee, a beautifully curated antique shop where visitors can discover vintage treasures, timeless décor, and one-of-a-kind finds that make every visit a little different.

For something truly special, Tenenbaum’s Jewelry has earned a reputation as a destination jeweler, attracting customers from across the region with its exceptional selection and trusted service.

When it’s time to eat, restaurants like Wild Carrot highlight Waverly’s growing food scene with fresh ingredients and creative menus. In fact, Wild Carrot earned recognition in 2025 for serving the Best Omelette, a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

And for a longtime local favorite, Z’s Pizza & Diner continues to be a go-to stop for families, students, and anyone craving a classic slice.

Manufacturing You Can Smell (Literally)

Waverly is also home to companies whose impact reaches far beyond our city limits.

If you’ve ever driven through town and wondered why the air smells like chocolate, you’re probably near the Nestlé plant, one of Waverly’s largest employers. Locals often joke that some days the whole town smells like a candy factory.

Another well-known company with deep Waverly roots is Rada Cutlery. What began as a small knife-making business after World War II has grown into one of the most successful American kitchen knife manufacturers, with products sold across the country.

These companies are a reminder that Waverly blends small-town charm with global reach.

More Hidden Gems to Discover

Of course, those are only the beginning.

Visitors exploring Waverly often discover scenic river views in Kohlmann Park, community programming and beautiful spaces at the Waverly Public Library, and art installations and murals scattered throughout downtown.

Throughout the year, Waverly also comes alive with community events like Art Walk, Ridiculous Days, and Christmas Greetings on Main, celebrations that bring neighbors, visitors, and local businesses together.

What truly makes Waverly special are the entrepreneurs, business owners, volunteers, and community partners who invest their time, talent, and passion into this place every day.

Come Discover Waverly

Waverly may not always be the biggest dot on the map, but it’s full of experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, attending an event at Wartburg College, or simply passing through northeast Iowa, we invite you to explore the hidden gems that make Waverly special.

You just might find yourself planning your next visit before you even leave.