Hidden Gems of Waverly, Iowa

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.

A Voice of the Valley: Simon Campbell

“What we didn’t expect was how quickly this community would make us feel like we belonged here and that we had something to give.”

Hi, my name is Simon Campbell, and this is why I Live the Valley.

My family moved to the Cedar Valley in 2022. My wife and I, along with our two young daughters, were stepping into a new season, drawn here by two things: an opportunity to serve at Prairie Lakes Church and a desire to live closer to family. We have siblings who had already landed in the area, and we wanted our girls to grow up enjoying their cousins, aunts, and uncles as a part of everyday life.

We moved here to be closer to family. What we didn’t expect was how quickly this community would make us feel like we belonged here and that we had something to give.

The Cedar Valley is the kind of place that invites you into the story right away. It draws you in and gives you a sense of ownership and impact early. We weren’t treated like outsiders trying to find our place. Any way we looked to get involved through church, school organizations, community events, or local initiatives – our contribution was welcomed. There’s something powerful about living in a place where your presence matters right away.

I love that I get to work for a church that carries that same spirit.

Prairie Lakes Church exists to be a “no matter” church: no matter who you are, where you’ve been, what you’ve done, or what’s been done to you – God loves you, and you can look for him at Prairie Lakes. And that’s not just something we say, it’s something we live by. You can feel that the moment you walk through the doors. As a multi-site church of seven campuses, we’re committed not only to serving this region but to covering the state with churches, creating communities where people can look for God no matter what.

It’s not lost on me that the heartbeat behind that mission feels very Cedar Valley. Outward-facing. Community-minded. Willing to invest beyond itself.

Outside of work, we’ve fallen in love with the everyday rhythms of life here. We live near the downtown district in Cedar Falls, and on summer evenings, we often just step outside and go wherever the live music takes us. It feels like there’s always something happening: festivals, markets, concerts – tons of great reasons to get out and try something new. The downtown districts in both Cedar Falls and Waterloo create spaces where people actually linger. You’re increasingly greeted by familiar faces, invited into conversations, and you really start to feel known.

We love being outdoors, too. Having a state park woven right into the midst of our community makes it feel like you’re only ever a few steps away from nature at any time. We’ve loved exploring the extensive trail systems from behind strollers, then scooters, and now family bike rides. I even commute to work by bike in the warmer months. We fish the local waters, rotate playing at all the parks, and take full advantage of the green spaces that make this area feel both connected and wide open at the same time.

One of the unexpected joys for me has been doing some content creation work to support Live the Valley. There’s something special about capturing the heart of a community while you’re still learning to become part of it yourself. Through the lens, I’ve seen firsthand the culture and commitment to community that define this place.

We came here for family and an opportunity, but we’ve thrived because this place invites you to belong, to contribute, and to build something meaningful. Our experience has cultivated a quiet sense of pride that makes us eager to answer the question, “Where are you guys living now?”

The Cedar Valley isn’t just where we moved.

It’s where we’re planting roots.

And that’s why I Live the Valley.

Simon Campbell

Count Me In: A Local Response to a Statewide Talent Challenge

New research from the Common Sense Institute (CSI) confirms what many communities across Iowa have felt for years. Too many graduates are leaving the state, and the economic consequences are significant.

According to the analysis, Iowa’s long-term out-migration of public university graduates has resulted in an estimated $96 billion in lost earnings. The ripple effects touch workforce availability, tax revenue, and long-term growth.

The challenge is real. But here in the Cedar Valley, we’re not waiting to react.

Through the Count Me In Population Study, Grow Cedar Valley is taking a proactive, data-driven approach to understanding who we are, who we’re losing, and what it will take to keep people here in the Cedar Valley.

Graduate Retention Starts With Belonging

The CSI report shows that only about half of Iowa’s public university graduates remain in the state ten years after graduation, even though roughly three-quarters of students are Iowa residents. From 2001 to 2021, the state lost a net 68,000 graduates compared to expected retention levels.

What we’re seeing in the data matches what we hear in conversations every day. Feeling welcome and building connections play a big role in whether people stay.

That’s why one the Population Study’s Big Bet 3 focuses on Careers Worth Staying For. This work is centered on helping students and early-career professionals see clear paths forward here through stronger career visibility, employer engagement, and opportunities to build connections early. Efforts like newcomer programming, young professional engagement, and closer ties between employers and the community help people form roots sooner, when decisions about where to build a life are still taking shape.

Retention Is an Economic Strategy

The Population Study treats population growth and retention as an economic development issue that touches nearly every part of the region. A steady population supports business growth, talent recruitment, housing demand, and local investment.

This is where Big Bet 2: Innovation that Competes comes into focus. The study calls for strengthening the types of industries, roles, and opportunities that allow people to build careers over time. Supporting business evolution, entrepreneurship, and higher-value work helps create an economy where people can see long-term opportunity and choose to stay.

Keeping Graduates Benefits Everyone

The report also outlines the fiscal impact of graduate loss, estimating that Iowa could be collecting hundreds of millions more each year in state and local tax revenue if retention rates were higher.

At the regional level, the Population Study helps communities understand how population trends affect everything from infrastructure and services to school enrollment and local investment. Retaining graduates strengthens the tax base, supports public services, and helps communities plan with confidence.

This work is about long-term stability, not quick fixes.

Turning Data Into Action

At the center of this work is Big Bet 1: One Vision, One Valley, which focuses on acting as one region with shared priorities and a clear sense of direction. The Population Study calls for stronger regional coordination, shared priorities, and a clearer narrative about who we are and where we’re headed. When communities, employers, educators, and partners move in the same direction, the Cedar Valley is better positioned to compete and follow through on long-term goals.

Through Count Me In, Grow Cedar Valley and regional partners are already moving forward with strategies that support talent retention, early connection, and regional alignment. Tools like Live the Valley, Cedar Valley Young Professionals, employer education, and community events all play a role in translating data into lived experience.

“The CSI report confirms the scale of the challenge Iowa is facing. The Population Study shows how the Cedar Valley is stepping up to meet it.” – Katy Susong, President & CEO | Grow Cedar Valley

The work ahead will take collaboration, consistency, and commitment. But by understanding our population today and planning intentionally for tomorrow, the Cedar Valley is positioning itself to keep talent here, not just educate it and watch it leave.

Want to Bring this Conversation to Your Organization?

If you would like Grow Cedar Valley to present the Population Study findings and the 3 Big Bets to your business or organization, please fill out this form to get started.

PRESENTATION REQUEST FORM

More information on next steps and additional ways to stay engaged will be shared soon. In the meantime, thank you for showing up, leaning in, and contributing to an important conversation about what comes next for our region. We’re grateful for your interest, your time, and your commitment to the Cedar Valley.

New Hampton, Iowa: Best Kept Secrets

New Hampton may be small, but its charm runs deep. From locally loved restaurants and family-friendly attractions to peaceful nature escapes and unique shopping experiences, these best-kept secrets are what make the community truly special. Whether you’re visiting for a day, staying for a weekend, or lucky enough to call New Hampton home, it’s the kind of place that leaves a lasting impression—and keeps people coming back for more.

Klunder’s Kafe
A hometown staple known for classic comfort food and friendly service. It’s the kind of place where locals gather and visitors instantly feel welcome.

Poor Richard’s
A go-to spot for a relaxed meal and great conversation. With its casual atmosphere and loyal following, it’s a true local favorite.

Crystal Ball Roller Sk8ing Rink & Bowlaway Lanes & Lounge
Old-school fun that never goes out of style. These family-friendly spots bring generations together for skating, bowling, and memorable nights out.

Twin Ponds Nature Center
A peaceful escape just minutes from town. With scenic trails, wildlife viewing, and educational opportunities, it’s a hidden gem for nature lovers.

New Hampton Splash Pad & Pool
A summer must-visit for families. This well-loved community amenity offers fun, affordable recreation for kids and a place to cool off on hot Iowa days.

Mennonite Greenhouses
A true Northeast Iowa treasure. People travel from miles away to shop these greenhouses, known for exceptional plants, quality, and a unique shopping experience you won’t find just anywhere.

TRIBE Trail
A growing recreational asset that connects the community. Perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors while showcasing New Hampton’s commitment to health and quality of life.

Downtown New Hampton
Charming, walkable, and full of character. Downtown features local businesses, historic buildings, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere.

Union Block Suites
A beautifully restored historic building offering boutique-style lodging. It blends timeless character with modern comfort—ideal for visitors looking for something special.

Community Spirit
The best secret of all. From events to everyday interactions, New Hampton’s sense of pride and friendliness is something you truly have to experience.

For more information on New Hampton, please visit www.newhamptonia.com

Megan Baltes| New Hampton Economic Development

A Voice of the Valley: Haley Hamm

“Somewhere between my first day of college and my first coffee run downtown, the Cedar Valley became home.”

Hi, my name is Haley Hamm, and this is why I Live the Valley.

I came to the University of Northern Iowa in 2022 with a plan: earn my degree and see where life took me next. What I didn’t expect was that the Cedar Valley would quietly become home, and that staying would feel less like a decision and more like a calling.

From the very beginning, there was something about this place that felt steady and welcoming. The Cedar Valley has a way of making you feel known. People take the time to connect, encourage, and cheer you on, no matter who you are or where you’re headed. That sense of community is what first drew me in, and it’s the reason I’ve chosen to build my life here.

My story in the Cedar Valley is deeply tied to the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center. I first learned about the JPEC while I was still in high school, and on my very first day at UNI, I began working there as a Marketing Assistant. After graduating, I was offered the opportunity to continue my professional journey as the Marketing and Events Coordinator.

Today, I get to work with student entrepreneurs and create spaces where their ideas, talents, and hard work can shine. Marketing and events are about creating experiences that bring people together, and there is something incredibly special about doing that work in a place that genuinely values connection.

I came to college with a heart for event planning, and through the JPEC, that passion became clearer and more purposeful. I began to see weddings not just as events, but as stories and moments that deserve care, creativity, and intention. During college, I started coordinating weddings as a side business. Throughout the process, I learned how to balance creativity with strategy and passion with professionalism, all within a community that truly supports small businesses and big dreams.

Outside of work, it’s the everyday moments that make the Cedar Valley feel like home. If you know me, you know I almost always have a coffee in hand. Sidecar, Sarah’s Crafted Coffee & Cocktails, and The Savvy Bean are some of my favorites. Each space is different, yet equally welcoming, and I think that’s what makes the Cedar Valley so unique. I could spend hours in a downtown coffee shop window seat working, reading, or doing a Bible study with friends.

I also love staying active, whether that’s a pop-up workout in the downtown green space on a Saturday morning, a class at FIT, or simply going for a walk with friends. Movement feels safe and refreshing here, and there are so many opportunities to stay active.

My weekends often include wandering downtown Main Street, shopping local boutiques, visiting the farmers market in the summer for fresh eggs and banana bread, or grabbing dinner at George’s Local or Urban Pie. I love a patio, no matter how hot or how cold it is.

In the summer, you’ll almost always find me at the Prairie Lakes Trail, from walking the path, to sitting and watching others fish, or lying out a blanket and journaling on the hill. Some of my favorite memories and conversations have happened there. I also enjoy playing pickleball, and I will never say no to an ice cream cone from Four Queens.

Live music is another favorite, and one of the things I love most about the Cedar Valley is how easily accessible it is, from festivals and outdoor events to local restaurants hosting bands. The community continually creates opportunities to gather, celebrate, and connect.

The Cedar Valley isn’t flashy, and that’s part of its beauty. It’s warm, steady, and full of people who care deeply about where they live and the people around them. It’s a place where I’ve grown into myself, personally, professionally, and creatively.

I didn’t just land here. I chose to stay.
And every day, the Cedar Valley reminds me why.

– Haley Hamm, Marketing and Events Coordinator | John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (JPEC)

Brrr-illiant Things to Do in Buchanan County

Winter in Buchanan County is full of charm, cozy spots, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re looking to get outside, try something new, or enjoy a warm drink, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best ways to spend a winter day in the county:

Get Outside

Snowshoeing

Check out a pair of snowshoes from Fontana or the Jesup Public Library and explore the local trails. If you stop at Fontana, don’t miss their animals—they’re a winter treat for the whole family.
Snowmobiling

Buchanan County is a great place for snowmobiling. Check the Wapsipinicon Snowmobile Association on Facebook for the latest trail updates.
Ice Fishing

Bundle up and try your luck on the Wapsipinicon River. Check out the Bait Shoppe for all your fishing needs(year-round!)

Downtown Adventures

Downtown Independence
Stroll the charming streets lined with boutiques offering clothing for men, women, kids, and even dogs. You’ll find kitchen gadgets, oils, balsamics, salts, seasonings, and pasta, or take a fun cooking class at The Brick Kitchen to learn how to make your own pasta, dessert, or other culinary creations.

Enjoy delicious international cuisine at Las Dos Marias, Chuong Garden, or Del Rio, all conveniently located downtown. For unique shopping, check out Olive the Things Consignment and More for high-quality preloved women’s and children’s clothing, shoes, accessories, and home décor.

Downtown Fairbank
Explore Fairbank’s cozy streets for unique finds. Stop by Brainard Hollow for the perfect vintage treasures, and catch a game at Costa’s or Outer Banks. Enjoy breakfast or lunch at The Farmer’s Kitchen where you’ll find warm, familiar favorites made cleanly and from scratch. With comforting flavors and thoughtfully prepared dishes, it’s the kind of place that feels like a home-cooked meal away from home.

Coffee Stops & Cafés

Buchanan County is home to five coffee shops, each with its own character:

Green Roast Café (Jesup) – Enjoy coffee, bakery items, and the infamous “Dirty Alanis.”
Common Ground (Lamont) – More than just coffee, this volunteer-run spot offers community, conversation, and delicious Wednesday lunch specials.
Em’s Coffee Co. (Independence) – Cozy seating, friendly faces, fresh pastries, and monthly drink specials make this a must-visit community hub.
Gedney’s (Independence) – Gedney’s is known for its fresh-baked goods made daily, with offerings ranging from savory quiche to cinnamon rolls, scones, and cookies. Pair a pastry with a cup of coffee and you’ve got the perfect stop to fuel a winter day.
Hagers Roasting Company (Quasqueton) – Hager’s offers fresh-brewed coffee from a small-batch roasting company that carefully selects high-quality green coffee. Each batch is custom roasted to bring out the flavors their customers love, making it a must-stop for serious coffee fans.

Entertainment

Bowling & Games
Bowl a few frames, watch the game, or grab a drink at 319 Social House. With leagues, open bowling, and birthday party options, it’s a go-to spot for indoor fun. On weekend evenings, enjoy cosmic bowling for a high-energy twist on a classic winter activity.

Buchanan County Amish Community
Take a winter drive to see the Amish way of life, quaint farms, and local shops. With over 50 Amish stores in Buchanan County, you’ll find anything you’re looking for, whether that’s new furniture, fresh baked goods, discount grocery, or just a slowed down pace.

Winter in Buchanan County is about cozy coffee stops, delicious food, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm. Whether you’re exploring trails, shopping downtown, or enjoying a community-focused café, you’ll find plenty of ways to make your winter days memorable.

For more information on Buchanan County, please visit travelbuchanan.com

Isabel Thurn, Executive Director | Buchanan County Tourism

Cedar Valley Spotlight: Not Your Typical Orchestra

The Waterloo-Cedar Falls Symphony is redefining what it means to be a truly local orchestra with world-class sound. As the only fully professional symphony in this part of Iowa, it plays an important part in the region’s arts scene and brings people together in a way that feels familiar and welcoming.

What makes the Symphony stand out is that it’s rooted in the Cedar Valley, both on and off the stage. While the orchestra attracts talented musicians to the region, many of the performers you see on stage live and work right here. They teach in local schools, hold day jobs around town, and show up for the same community events as the rest of us. When you attend a concert, chances are you’ll recognize a face or two on stage. That sense of connection changes the experience in the best way.

Music That Brings People Together

Film concerts are often the moment people talk about long after they leave the theater. Watching a familiar movie while the orchestra performs the score live creates a shared experience that feels both fun and surprising. Families fill the seats, and you can see it happen in real time. Kids lean over to their parents when they realize the music they love is being played right in front of them. That instant of recognition, especially during a film like Star Wars, is part of what makes these nights stick.

Adults feel it too. Many leave realizing they never paid close attention to the music before hearing it performed live. What once stayed in the background suddenly becomes part of the story. Across classical concerts, film nights, and special collaborations, the Waterloo Cedar Falls Symphony creates evenings that feel welcoming and familiar. It’s live music that fits the Cedar Valley. Approachable, shared, and often played by people you already know.

If you haven’t attended a concert lately, this might be the season to take a seat and listen a little closer. The music, and the community behind it, is worth your time.

For upcoming concerts and ticket details, visit wcfsymphony.org.