Waterloo-Cedar Falls

Photograph 2004: Courtesy of Scott Sargent

Photographs August 2006: Courtesy of Phil Edwards

Waterloo-Cedar Falls, Iowa

-- 4410 University Ave (3428 Waterloo Rd)

A classic operation, the Waterloo-Cedar Falls Motor Lodge opened in 1965 joining a preexisting circa 1957 Restaurant. An ultra-modern convenience the facility offered guests use of its indoor heated swimming pool. The 96 room two-story Motor Lodge remained a Howard Johnson's until 1985. Subsequently the site became a Villager and then by the 2000s was called JJL Extended Stay Inn.

Remarkably well preserved, the signature A-frame Gate Lodge was modified with a new canopy and entryway. Following the original roofline, the canopy was clad in roof tiles that appeared to match the originals on the rest of the Gate Lodge's roof.

Photograph 2004: Courtesy of Scott Sargent

As early as 1957 the Waterloo-Cedar Falls area was served by a free-standing HJ Restaurant believed to be the one found adjacent to the former Motor Lodge. First listed at 3406 Waterloo Road, later the Restaurant's address became 4418 University Ave. By the 2000s it housed a Lebeda mattress store.

Photographs August 2006: Courtesy of Phil Edwards