Iowa League of Cities Honors Cedar Falls with Prestigious Award

I live in Cedar Falls, and so I may be a bit biased, but I feel it's the, or at least one of the, nicest spots in the entire Midwest.

Now, Cedar Falls has been recognized as one of Iowa’s top communities thanks to the success of its new Gateway River Park.

The award is well deserved!

Cedar Falls is an All-Star Community

The Iowa League of Cities named Cedar Falls a 2025 All-Star Community, the organization’s highest honor, for the project that transformed a once-hazardous area of the Cedar River into a vibrant destination for recreation and gathering.

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Cedar Falls is one of only three cities across Iowa to earn the award this year, alongside New Albin and Jefferson.

The honor will be formally presented at the League’s Annual Conference and Exhibit in Des Moines, September 17-19.

Cedar Falls Channel 15

Gateway River Park - The Pearl of Cedar Falls

The Gateway River Park began as the Cedar River Recreational Project, with the goal of revitalizing the stretch of river between Main and First Street.

Work broke ground in September 2023, and on June 8, 2025, the city officially cut the ribbon on the new space.

Johnny Marks/TSM

Today, the riverfront attraction offers kayaking, fishing, river surfing, and other activities, all within steps of downtown Cedar Falls.

With connections to more than 130 miles of trails and easy access to local shops and restaurants, the park is already becoming a cornerstone for both residents and visitors.

City leaders say the project reflects Cedar Falls’ long-standing relationship with the river, while also boosting safety, recreation, and economic development opportunities.

The Iowa League of Cities said the award recognizes innovative community efforts in areas such as urban renewal, quality of life improvements, and collaborative planning.

More information about the Gateway River Park can be found at its official website.

Is Cedar Falls one of Iowa's snobbiest cities?