A Travel Guide to Waterloo, Iowa's Best Concerts & Events

Welcome to the Cedar Valley! Whether you are a local resident of Black Hawk County or visiting from across the Midwest, Waterloo, Iowa, offers a surprisingly vibrant calendar of concerts, festivals, and cultural events. From the roaring grandstands of the National Cattle Congress to the intimate, open-air vibes of the RiverLoop Amphitheatre, there is always something happening in this dynamic riverside city.

However, attending these major events often comes with the logistical headache of navigating traffic on Highway 218, finding parking in downtown Waterloo, and coordinating arrival times for large groups. That is where Charter Bus Rental Company Waterloo comes in. We are the premier provider of group transportation in the Cedar Valley, offering a fleet that ranges from 18-passenger minibuses for intimate outings to 56-passenger motorcoaches for large-scale logistics.

We believe that the journey to the event should be just as enjoyable as the event itself. When you book with us, you get a driver, a climate-controlled vehicle, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing everyone will arrive safely and together. Whether you are planning a corporate outing , a family reunion, or just a night out with friends, let us handle the wheel while you enjoy the ride. Call us today at 563-551-8160 to get your free, personalized quote in minutes!

A few of the companies we’ve worked with

Rock Out at the RiverLoop Amphitheatre

There is nothing quite like live music by the water. Located right in the heart of downtown, the RiverLoop Amphitheatre (225 Commercial St, Waterloo, IA 50701) is the epicenter of Waterloo’s summer entertainment scene. This open-air venue hosts a variety of events, most notably the beloved "Friday Loo" series, which brings the community together for live music, local food vendors, and cold drinks every week during the summer months. It is also a prime spot for the Cedar Valley Irish Cultural Event and various art festivals hosted by the Waterloo Center for the Arts.

Parking in downtown Waterloo during peak event times can be a challenge, especially if you are trying to keep a caravan of cars together. By renting a minibus or charter bus from Charter Bus Rental Company Waterloo, you can bypass the struggle for street parking along Commercial Street. We can drop your group off right at the entrance to the RiverLoop, allowing you to stake out your spot on the lawn immediately. Afterward, your driver will be waiting to pick you up, ensuring a safe ride home after enjoying the festivities. With onboard storage for lawn chairs and blankets, our buses make attending outdoor concerts effortless.

Experience the Energy of the National Cattle Congress

The National Cattle Congress (257 Ansborough Ave, Waterloo, IA 50701) is perhaps the most iconic event venue in the region. While it is famous for its annual fair in September—which features rodeos, livestock shows, and carnival rides—the grounds also host major concerts and events year-round in the Hippodrome and Electric Park Ballroom. The annual fair draws tens of thousands of visitors from across Iowa and neighboring states, turning the Ansborough Avenue corridor into a bustling hub of activity.

If you are organizing a group trip for a 4-H club, a corporate team-building day at the fair, or a large family outing to see a headline country music act, a charter bus rental is your best logistical solution. Navigating the massive parking lots at the Cattle Congress grounds can be confusing and time-consuming. With a private charter bus, your group stays together. Our full-size motorcoaches offer massive undercarriage storage bays, perfect for stowing fair prizes, souvenirs, or even equipment if you are participating in the exhibitions. Let your driver navigate the crowds while you relax in air-conditioned comfort.

Catch Big Acts at Young Arena

While primarily known as the home of the Waterloo Black Hawks USHL hockey team, Young Arena (460 Jefferson St, Waterloo, IA 50701) transforms into a premier concert venue throughout the year. Hosting everything from classic rock legends to contemporary pop stars, this multi-purpose facility draws substantial crowds to downtown Waterloo. Whether you are heading to a game or a show, the atmosphere is always electric, but the post-event traffic can be daunting.

Don't let the stress of gridlock dampen your post-concert high. When you book a party bus or charter bus with Charter Bus Rental Company Waterloo, the party starts the moment you step on board. Use our onboard AUX/Bluetooth sound systems to play the artist's greatest hits on the way to the venue, and enjoy a few drinks responsibly without worrying about appointing a designated driver. The drivers navigate the streets around Jefferson and Commercial, ensuring you get close to the doors for drop-off and have a seamless pick-up experience once the encore is over. It is the VIP treatment your group deserves.

Celebrate Culture at the Iowa Irish Fest

Held annually in downtown Waterloo, the Iowa Irish Fest is one of the premier cultural events in the Midwest, drawing over 50,000 visitors to the Lincoln Park area (4th & Main St, Waterloo, IA 50701). With multiple stages featuring Celtic rock and traditional Irish music, Highland games, and plenty of food and beverages, it is a weekend-long celebration that requires serious stamina. Because the festival takes over several city blocks, parking is pushed to the perimeter, often requiring long walks or shuttle rides.

Simplify your group's Irish Fest experience by hiring a private shuttle service through Charter Bus Rental Company Waterloo. We can arrange daily transportation for your large group from your hotel or meeting point directly to the festival gates. If you have a group of relatives flying in for the fest, we can pick them up at the Waterloo Regional Airport and bring them straight to the action. With a private bus, you have a climate-controlled hub to retreat to if the Iowa summer heat gets too intense, and you ensure everyone gets back to their accommodations safely after enjoying a pint or two of Guinness.

Enjoy Performing Arts at Gallagher Bluedorn

Just a short drive from Waterloo in neighboring Cedar Falls, the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center (8201 Dakota St, Cedar Falls, IA 50614) located on the University of Northern Iowa campus, brings world-class entertainment to the Cedar Valley. From Broadway touring companies like Hamilton or The Lion King to the Waterloo-Cedar Falls Symphony, this venue offers sophisticated nights out that demand equally sophisticated transportation.

For corporate clients or groups of seniors attending a matinee, our fleet offers the comfort and accessibility you need. Request a bus with reclining seats and ample legroom to ensure comfort for older passengers. If you are planning a corporate gala or donor event, our sleek, modern buses set the right tone from the moment your guests arrive. Avoid the long walk from the university parking decks—the drivers can provide curb-side service at the main entrance, making your night at the theater elegant and hassle-free.

My Waterloo Days Festival Transportation

My Waterloo Days is the ultimate community celebration, featuring parades, dragon boat races, musical performances, and fireworks. The event spans multiple locations, often centering around George Wyth State Park and downtown Waterloo. Coordinating transportation for a large group during a city-wide festival can be a nightmare of missed texts and lost cars.

By securing a charter bus rental, you keep your group cohesive. Whether you are a marching band participating in the parade, a corporate team competing in the dragon boat races, or a large family gathering for the weekend, we have the vehicle for you. Our buses can navigate road closures and detours that often accompany parades and festivals, ensuring you get where you need to be without the headache. Plus, with onboard WiFi, you can share your festival photos in real-time while moving between event sites.

Live Music at the Electric Park Ballroom

Steeped in history, the Electric Park Ballroom (310 W Conger St, Waterloo, IA 50703) is a legendary venue located within the National Cattle Congress grounds. Known for its nostalgic atmosphere and large dance floor, it frequently hosts big band concerts, rock shows, and large wedding receptions. It is a venue that calls for a group outing, whether it is a class reunion or a swing dance club trip.

Charter Bus Rental Company Waterloo is the perfect partner for events at the Electric Park Ballroom. If you are organizing a reunion, our buses allow old friends to catch up without the distraction of driving. We can run shuttles between local hotels and the ballroom, ensuring that out-of-town guests don't have to navigate unfamiliar roads at night. With a driver at the helm, your group can dance the night away and return home safely.

Book Your Waterloo Event Transportation Today

Don't let traffic and parking logistics overshadow the excitement of Waterloo's best concerts and events. Charter Bus Rental Company Waterloo is ready to provide you with the safe, reliable, and premium transportation solution your group deserves. From the moment you call for a quote to the final drop-off, our team is dedicated to your satisfaction.

Our reservation specialists are available 24/7/365 to assist you with finding the best charter bus to meet your needs. Whether you need a 56-passenger motorcoach for a trip to the Cattle Congress or a minibus for a night at Young Arena, we are ready to help. We’d love to earn your business! You can reach us by calling 563-551-8160. You can also use our online quote tool for instant online charter bus pricing in under 30-seconds. Let's get your group on the road!

Frequently Asked Questions About Waterloo Concert Transportation

How much does it cost to rent a charter bus in Waterloo?

The cost of a charter bus rental in Waterloo depends on several factors, including the size of the bus, the duration of your trip, the time of year, and the distance traveled. For example, a local transfer to Young Arena will cost differently than a multi-day trip to a festival. To get the most accurate pricing, we recommend calling our team at 563-551-8160 with your trip details. We provide free, personalized quotes in minutes, or you can use our online tool for a 30-second estimate.

How far in advance should I book for events like the Iowa Irish Fest?

For major events like the Iowa Irish Fest, My Waterloo Days, or large concerts at the Cattle Congress, demand for buses increases significantly. We strongly recommend booking your charter bus rental at least 3 to 6 months in advance to ensure availability and secure the best pricing. However, we understand that plans can change, and our 24/7 team will always do our best to accommodate last-minute requests whenever possible.

Do you service areas outside of Waterloo like Cedar Falls or Waverly?

Absolutely! Charter Bus Rental Company Waterloo proudly serves the entire Cedar Valley and beyond. Whether you need transportation to Cedar Falls, Waverly, Hudson, Evansdale, or long-distance trips to Des Moines or Chicago, we have you covered. Our service area extends statewide and across the Midwest, so no destination is out of reach for your group.

What amenities are available on your buses?

Our fleet offers a wide range of modern amenities designed to make your trip comfortable. Most full-size charter buses come equipped with reclining seats, climate control, onboard restrooms, TV monitors with DVD players, and plenty of luggage storage. WiFi and power outlets are also available on many of our vehicles to keep you connected. If you have specific requirements, such as ADA accessibility, please let our reservation team know when you call, and we will find the perfect bus for your group.