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Iowa City, IA, USA to Waterloo, IA, USA from $32: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Iowa City, United States of America
to
Waterloo, United States of America

How to Get from Iowa City to Waterloo: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$32 by busBest price
132 kmDistance
1h 25m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Iowa City to Waterloo with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Burlington Trailways
Bus
Average Duration
2h  40m
Estimated price
$48-92
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
3h  58m
Estimated price
$32-56
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 132 km
Duration: 1h 25m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  25m
Estimated price
$14-22
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Traveling From Iowa City to Waterloo

The journey from Iowa City to Waterloo offers you a shift from the vibrant college town atmosphere to a city rich in history and outdoor activities.

Best Neighbourhoods in Waterloo

Waterloo features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character.

Cedar Valley
• Home to beautiful parks and trails.
• Offers a vibrant dining scene.
Downtown Waterloo
• Rich in historical architecture and culture.
• Hosts frequent local events and festivals.
West Waterloo
• Family-friendly with great schools nearby.
• Quiet residential areas with ample green space.

Best Times To Visit Waterloo's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experience in Waterloo.

Waterloo Center for the Arts
Weekdays in the morning offer quieter galleries and guided tours.
Lost Island Waterpark
Visit on weekdays during summer for shorter lines and less crowded pools.
Cedar Falls Historical Society
Early afternoons on weekdays provide a calm atmosphere for exploring history.

Waterloo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Waterloo experiences a humid continental climate, bringing cold winters and warm summers, with ideal visiting months typically falling between late spring and early fall. Understanding the weather patterns can help you pack wisely and plan activities that align with seasonal conditions.

Dining Recommendation in Waterloo

For an authentic taste of Waterloo, try the smoked brisket at the local favorite, Smokey D's BBQ, where the rich, smoky flavors and communal dining atmosphere provide a stark contrast to the more eclectic culinary scene in Iowa City. This experience showcases locally sourced meats and a laid-back vibe, allowing you to savor the essence of Midwestern comfort food.

Iowa City - Waterloo operators

Explore transport companies operating between Iowa City and Waterloo, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618
Website
burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Iowa City, Ia to Cedar Rapids, Ia

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$48-92

Bus from Cedar Rapids, Ia to Waterloo, Ia

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$32-56
Contact phone
+1-319-362-0375
Website
380express.com

Bus from Court St Transportation Center to GTC Bay 9

Average Duration
51m
Estimated price
0-486
Contact phone
+1 319-286-5573
Website
cedar-rapids.org

Bus from GTC Bay 7 to 2nd St & 11th Ave

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
0-487

Iowa City to Waterloo: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Iowa City and Waterloo offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic 82-mile journey from Iowa City to Waterloo, enjoying the heartland landscapes of Iowa along the way. 💰 The cost of travel by car ranges from $14 to $22, offering an affordable and convenient option for exploring these two vibrant cities. ⏱️ With a drive time of approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes, this road trip promises a smooth and enjoyable travel experience between Iowa City and Waterloo.
Average price
$14 - $22
🚌 The trip from Iowa City to Waterloo by bus is convenient, but it involves a transfer in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 🌳 The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes, offering a scenic route through the heart of Iowa. 🚏 Burlington Trailways operates the bus services between Iowa City and Waterloo, providing a reliable transportation option for travelers. 💰 The prices for a bus ticket between the two cities can range from $48 to $92, making it an affordable way to travel within the state.
Departure Point
Iowa City, Ia station
Arrival Point
Waterloo, Ia station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Iowa City to Waterloo.

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The distance between Iowa City and Waterloo is approximately 71 miles, with a road distance of 82.3 miles. If you choose to drive, it takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes to travel from Iowa City to Waterloo by car. Alternatively, if you prefer taking the bus, the travel time increases to about 2 hours and 40 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Iowa City to Waterloo is to drive. With a travel time of 1 hour and 25 minutes, driving allows for maximum flexibility and convenience. The cost of driving is estimated to be between $14 and $22, making it an affordable choice. Taking a bus is also an option, but it is more time-consuming, with a travel time of 2 hours and 40 minutes.
The prices for taking a bus from Iowa City to Waterloo vary between $48 and $92, depending on factors such as the time of travel and the type of ticket purchased. It is advisable to book in advance and compare prices from different bus companies to find the best deal. Additionally, discounts may be available for students, seniors, or large groups traveling together.
To get from Iowa City to Waterloo without using public transportation, you can drive the 82-mile distance, which takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes. The driving route is convenient and allows you to have the flexibility to plan your own schedule. The cost of this journey by car can range from $14 to $22, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
To travel from Iowa City to Waterloo without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey typically takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes and costs between $45 and $95. There are different bus companies that operate between these two cities, offering convenient schedules and comfortable transportation for passengers. This is a cost-effective and efficient way to reach Waterloo from Iowa City if you don't have access to a car.
Yes, there is a link between Iowa City and Waterloo but it requires a transfer in Cedar Rapids. The bus services operated by Burlington Trailways offer this connection, with departures from Iowa City and arrivals in Waterloo. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes, including the transfer.
There are plenty of hotel options available near Waterloo with over 30 hotels to choose from. Prices for accommodation in the area start at $42 per night, offering a range of options to suit different budgets. Some popular hotels in the vicinity include the Hampton Inn Waterloo by Marriott Waterloo Cedar Falls, and Holiday Inn Express Waterloo-Cedar Falls. It is recommended to use online platforms or consult with a travel agent to compare rates, read reviews, and find the best hotel that fits your preferences and budget.

Trips from Iowa City