WEEKENDER BLOG

Top 10 things to do while visiting your student at UNI in Cedar Falls 

Visiting your student at UNI can help to set them up for success. College can be exciting and challenging for students as they adjust to a new environment, rigorous studies, and make new friends. You can help them improve their chances of success throughout their college journey by visiting as often as your schedules allow. Spending time with your student provides time to bond while you learn about the area and make new memories they will cherish forever. 

Here are some ideas for things you can do together during your visit. 

1. Connect with nature 

Your student will be as excited as you are to explore the many outdoor adventures in Cedar Falls. Bring your bikes, sneakers, or kayak and journey down more than 150 miles of hard-surfaced, soft, and water trails in the area. Hartman Reserve Nature Center offers year-round indoor and outdoor events and exhibits. See what's happening during your visit.

2. Entertain 

We know how to weekend in Cedar Falls, every day of the week! Whether you’re in the mood for live music, theatre, art, comedy, or games, we have a venue guaranteed to have something you’ll enjoy while you’re here.  
 

The Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center on the UNI Campus offers various music, theatre, and Broadway productions. See the calendar of events to plan your weekend and purchase tickets in advance. Just a few blocks east of the UNI Campus is The Hearst Center for the Arts, featuring a new series of exhibits, events, and classes yearly.  
 

Off campus, nestled into the historic downtown district, you’ll find the Cedar Falls Community Theatre at the Oster Regent. Established in 1910, it’s one of the oldest theatres in the state, producing some of the finest plays in Iowa.  
 

Throughout Cedar Falls, you can find venues with live music, karaoke, trivia nights, and more in the area’s bars and restaurants. To choose something that suits your mood, check out the events calendar.  

3. Get some UNI swag 

The UNI Bookstore is the official place for everything UNI and Panther Sports-related. This shop goes beyond hats and t-shirts, carrying everything from skincare to home decor and automotive accessories. Remember to grab some spirit gear for yourself - you'll look like the Baddest Cats in the Valley next time you visit. Chances are your student will love everything they see. Be sure to take notes during your visit so you can order their favorites online to include in your next care package.  

4. Treat them to dinner 

Give your student a break from cafeteria food and instant noodles and treat them to a meal of their choice.  College Hill and Community Main Street offer a variety of dining, from casual to formal. Ask them if they have a place they would like to try while you’re in town (and picking up the tab) or flip a coin if you can’t decide. The areas eateries are guaranteed to satisfy every palate.   

5. Stock their fridge 

Stock up on healthy grab-and-go snacks and food for their busy week. May through October, College Hill Farmers Market sets up near UNI every Wednesday – making it the most convenient place to buy local fresh vegetables, fruits, bread, and pastries! For $3, you can pick up a loyalty card, which provides discounts at participating restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. On seasonal Saturdays, head to the Downtown District for the Farmers Market, which offers 100% of its produce from local and surrounding counties. If your student has a larger fridge or pantry, visit one of Cedar Falls Grocery stores. Aldi’s, Hy-Vee, Fareway, and Natural Grocers offer everything your student needs to fuel their way through busy school days and nights. Grab a gift card for your student while you’re there.  

6. Go to a Sporting Event on campus 

Show your student school spirit and Panther Pride by wearing school colors and going to a game. With so many different options, which one (or two) will you choose during your stay?  

7. Fun and Games 

For a more hands-on adventure, Cedar Falls offers more options than you can fit in a weekend, from axe throwing, escape room adventures, indoor and outdoor golf, pickleball, tennis, swimming, and more. Visit the full list of amusements in the area for more inspiration.  

8. Rest 

Give them a break from their dorm and/or roommates and book an extra room at the hotel where you're staying. Or make it a camping adventure at one of our local RV/Campgrounds. Cedar Falls has accommodations that both you and your student will love, ranging from exclusive, one of a kind to hotels with a familiar name.  

9. Relax and Unwind

Give your student the chance to really unwind from their daily routine by booking a facial, relaxing floatation session, sauna, or massage at one of Cedar Falls professional spas.  

10. Explore the rich history of Cedar Falls

Engage in the education and celebration of our heritage with a tour of one of 5 of our local museums. The Cedar Falls Historical Society offers programs and events year-round.  

Visit the UNI Family Weekend website for additional ideas!