For Father's Day weekend 2026 (June 19–21), Waterloo, IA, features several family-friendly celebrations, including special theme park discounts, local baseball games, and holiday brunch menus. Father's Day falls on Sunday, June 21, 2026.
Hosting a "Brunch + Burger Buddies" event from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Father's Day, featuring smash burgers, beer specials, and a full brunch menu.
Traditionally offers a comprehensive Father's Day Brunch Buffet including a carving station with prime rib, maple-glazed turkey, and assorted desserts.
A local staple for a "down-home" Father's Day breakfast. Expect a retro vibe and massive pancakes, though it is typically very busy on Sunday mornings.
Open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; a classic stop for dads interested in agricultural history.
Features the Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum and the Bluedorn Science Imaginarium, offering interactive exhibits suitable for all ages.
Ideal for a relaxing morning of fishing, birdwatching, or hiking along the Cedar River.
Would you like to reserve a table for brunch or purchase tickets for the Bucks game?
Featured Events & Activities
Father's Day Dining
Local Points of Interest
•Lost Island Themepark & Waterpark Father's Day Special
•Date: Sunday, June 21, 2026 (10:30 AM – 6:30 PM)
•Location: 2600 E. Shaulis Road, Waterloo, IA
•Details: Dads can receive half-price admission at the gate when accompanied by a child. Additionally, dads may receive a free meal voucher for lunch or dinner when visiting with their child. The "Daddy & Me" waterpark special also offers $19.50 admission for dads with the purchase of a kid's ticket.
•Website: The Lost Island
•Waterloo Bucks Baseball
•Dates: Saturday, June 20, and Sunday, June 21, 2026
•Location: Riverfront Stadium, 850 Park Road, Waterloo, IA
•Details: The Bucks are scheduled for a homestand against the La Crosse Loggers. Saturday's first pitch is at 6:35 PM, followed by a Father's Day game on Sunday at 5:05 PM.
•Website: Waterloo Bucks Schedule
•Free Admission at Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens
•Date: Sunday, June 21, 2026 (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
•Location: 1927 E. Orange Road, Waterloo, IA
•Details: All fathers receive free admission to the 40-acre gardens on Father's Day. It is a popular spot for family photos and scenic walks through curated landscapes.
•Website: Cedar Valley Arboretum
•Cedar Valley Arboretum
•Hosting a "Brunch + Burger Buddies" event from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Father's Day, featuring smash burgers, beer specials, and a full brunch menu.
•Traditionally offers a comprehensive Father's Day Brunch Buffet including a carving station with prime rib, maple-glazed turkey, and assorted desserts.
•A local staple for a "down-home" Father's Day breakfast. Expect a retro vibe and massive pancakes, though it is typically very busy on Sunday mornings.
•Open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; a classic stop for dads interested in agricultural history.
•Features the Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum and the Bluedorn Science Imaginarium, offering interactive exhibits suitable for all ages.
•Features the Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum and the Bluedorn Science Imaginarium, offering interactive exhibits suitable for all ages
•Ideal for a relaxing morning of fishing, birdwatching, or hiking along the Cedar River.
Updated at 19 Mar 2026