Discover 19 family-friendly activities, venues, and restaurants in Waterloo.
12 Upcoming EventsThe highest-rated places we recommend first — start here.
🍽️ RestaurantBenson's Hilltop is a beloved Waterloo staple where families can enjoy classic American comfort food without the fuss. The welcoming, casual atmosphere means parents can relax while kids enjoy kid-friendly favorites like burgers and sandwiches, making it an easy choice for a no-stress family meal out.
🍽️ RestaurantEllsworth Crossing Farm to Fork Market is a delightful seasonal market where families can explore fresh local produce, sample homemade goods, and connect with local farmers and artisans. The welcoming community atmosphere makes it easy to shop with kids in tow, and little ones love picking out colorful fruits, vegetables, and treats while learning where their food comes from.
🧗 AdventureThis paved trail in Waterloo offers families an easy, accessible way to explore the outdoors together through walking, biking, or scootering. With smooth surfaces perfect for strollers and training wheels, it connects neighborhoods while providing a safe space for kids to practice riding skills and parents to squeeze in some exercise alongside their little ones.
🌿 NatureGlacier Creek Preserve offers families 160+ acres of pristine wetlands and prairies to explore through well-maintained hiking trails perfect for little legs. Kids can spot turtles, frogs, and countless bird species while learning about Nebraska's natural ecosystems through hands-on educational programs that make nature study fun and accessible.
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🌳 ParkZorinsky Lake Park is a sprawling outdoor paradise perfect for families who love nature and activity. With its 255-acre lake, multiple playgrounds, paved trails ideal for strollers and bikes, and plenty of space to run, this park offers something for every member of the family whether you're feeding ducks, flying kites, or enjoying a lakeside picnic.
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🌳 ParkBennington Lake offers the perfect blend of outdoor activities for families looking to spend a few hours in nature without venturing far from Omaha. Kids can burn energy on the playground equipment while parents enjoy scenic lake views, and the paved walking paths make it easy to navigate with strollers or young bikers. The fishing pier provides a fantastic opportunity to introduce little ones to their first fishing experience in a calm, beginner-friendly setting.
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⚽ SportsGolfTRK Elkhorn is a versatile multi-sport entertainment facility that keeps kids active year-round, rain or shine. With batting cages for future ballplayers, miniature golf for the whole family, a driving range for aspiring golfers, and climate-controlled indoor activities, it's the perfect spot for families who want sports fun without weather worries.
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🌿 NatureTwo Rivers State Recreation Area offers families a peaceful escape into Nebraska's native prairie landscape, perfect for introducing kids to wildlife watching and nature exploration. With its easy walking trails winding through native grasslands and wildlife habitats, this recreation area provides a low-key outdoor adventure where children can burn energy while learning about local ecosystems.
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🏛️ Community CenterWaterloo Community Center serves as a welcoming hub for families in Waterloo, Nebraska, offering a variety of youth programs, sports activities, and community events throughout the year. With its 4.5-star rating and reputation as a family-friendly gathering space, it's a go-to destination for local families looking for structured activities and community connection in a safe, accessible environment.
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🎮 EntertainmentSpare Time Omaha is the ultimate indoor entertainment destination for families looking to burn energy rain or shine. With bowling lanes, an expansive arcade, thrilling laser tag arena, and a rock climbing wall all under one roof, this multi-activity center keeps kids entertained for hours while parents can relax knowing everyone's having a blast in a safe, climate-controlled environment.
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🍦 Ice CreamDairy Chef is a beloved neighborhood ice cream shop in Elkhorn that's been serving up smiles with their classic soft serve treats. This no-frills spot is perfect for a quick family dessert outing, offering generous portions at wallet-friendly prices that won't break the bank after a busy day of activities.
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🌊 Water ParkStone Ridge Splash Park offers a fantastic FREE way to beat the summer heat in Elkhorn! This outdoor splash pad features interactive water sprayers, fountains, and play structures that keep kids entertained for hours while parents relax nearby. With its convenient location and no admission fee, it's become a favorite destination for local families looking for budget-friendly fun.
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⚽ SportsThe James P. McNeil Soccer Complex is Waterloo's go-to destination for active families who love the beautiful game. With multiple well-maintained fields, it's perfect for watching your kids play in youth leagues, joining informal family pick-up games, or simply letting the little ones run off energy in the wide-open green spaces.
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🌳 ParkWaterloo Memorial Park is a welcoming community park that offers everything families need for a fun outdoor day. With well-maintained playground equipment, shaded picnic shelters, and plenty of open green space for running and playing, it's the perfect spot for birthday parties, casual family picnics, or just burning off some energy after school.
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The Bess Johnson Elkhorn Branch offers families a welcoming modern library space that goes beyond books. With dedicated play areas, an extensive children's section filled with engaging materials, and regular story times and activity programs, it's a free community hub where kids can explore, learn, and socialize in a comfortable environment.
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12 upcoming family events in Waterloo
Does your teen love writing, performing, or discovering fresh creative voices? The Young Playwrights Festival at The Rose Theater in Omaha showcases original short plays written by and for teenagers ages 12-18. This is a rare opportunity for young performers to step into meaningful roles and celebrate the incredible storytelling of their peers.
via The Rose Theater
Ready to transform your youngest into a confident storyteller? Little Mermaid at Rose Studio for Youth Artists in Omaha offers a magical, age-appropriate introduction to musical theater for ages 3,5. Through songs, dances, and ensemble storytelling, your child will build confidence and creativity in a nurturing, supportive classroom environment.
via The Rose Theater
Looking for affordable, flexible after-school care in Omaha that actually keeps kids engaged? After Care Week #1 at The Rose Theater offers the perfect solution for families with children ages 5-15. Your kids will enjoy age-appropriate crafts, games, movies, and supervised fun while you get the flexibility you need with convenient pick-up scheduling.
via The Rose Theater
Need flexible childcare with a creative twist? Before Care Week #1 at The Rose Theater in Omaha starts Tuesday, May 26, 2026, offering families the perfect solution for early-morning schedules. Kids ages 5,15 will enjoy crafts, games, and group activities with caring instructors while you get a smooth start to your day.
via The Rose Theater
Introduce your little one to the magic of theater with *Cinderella Around The World* at Rose Studio for Youth Artists in Omaha! This enchanting program for ages 3,5 (starting Tuesday, May 26, 2026) explores beloved fairytale versions from cultures around the globe. Your child will enjoy age-appropriate activities, creative play, and the wonder of storytelling tailored just for them.
via The Rose Theater
Ready to unleash your child's inner costume designer? Art of Theater Design: Halloween Summer of Make-up & Costumes at The Rose Theater in Omaha, NE is a week-long deep dive into theatrical magic for kids ages 9-13. Your young artist will explore scenery, costumes, props, lighting, and sound design while collaborating with peers in a creative, hands-on environment that brings stage magic to life.
via The Rose Theater
Does your child love Disney's *Descendants*? This week-long theater program at Rose Studio for Youth Artists in Omaha (starting Tuesday, May 26, 2026) invites kids ages 9,13 to immerse themselves in the story through song, choreography, and scene work. Young performers will learn new dance moves and create their own inspired scenes before sharing their talents in a final performance.
via The Rose Theater
Showing 12 events in and around Waterloo