The University of Northern Iowa is the reason Cedar Falls feels livelier than many towns its size. Its campus brings theatre, music, lectures, college sports, and a steady calendar of public events, especially at the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center and the UNI-Dome.
The campus is worth checking even if you are not visiting a student. Look at the event calendar before arriving; a concert, game, or performance can turn Cedar Falls from a pleasant stop into a good night out.