Brithday Party Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Phelps Youth Pavilion located?
We are located on the banks of the Cedar River at the corner of Highway 63 and Commercial Street in downtown Waterloo.  Our address is 225 Commercial Street.

Is a reservation necessary for birthday parties?
Yes. Please make reservations by calling 319.291.4490 or e-mailing museum@waterloo-ia.org. Birthday parties are scheduled Saturdays 11AM and 3PM, Sundays 2PM, please schedule yours early as bookings fill quickly. Reservations require a deposit of 50% at time of booking. Final payment and party selections are due 5 business days before your scheduled party. We do not allow unscheduled birthday parties or groups.

What is the room capacity?
Party room capacity is 50 guests (adults and children). If you would like a larger party, we suggest scheduling a Whole Kit and Caboodle Package. For more information, call 319.291.4490 or e-mail museum@waterloo-ia.org.

Do the birthday party packages include any staff facilitation?
A Birthday Buddy staff member will assist with each party, although it is required that you supply one adult for every six children attending the party.

What times are birthday parties available?
Birthday parties are scheduled Saturdays 11AM and 3PM and Sundays 2PM. Please call (319) 291-4490 to schedule yours early as bookings fill quickly.

What are the accepted methods of payment?
A 50% non-refundable deposit and completed contract are required to confirm your party reservation. The Phelps Youth Pavilion accepts cash, personal check, and credit card (Visa, MasterCard and Discover). Final payment and party selections are due 5 business days before your scheduled party. We do not allow unscheduled birthday parties or groups.

Will I receive a discount with my Phelps Youth Pavilion Passport?
Yes, you will receive a 20% discount on a Kit or Caboodle package if you are a Phelps Youth Pavilion Passport-holder. Limit one discounted birthday party per year.

Will I be able to decorate the room before my party begins?
Setup and cleanup are included in the 2-hour room rental. You will have access to the room at the time that your birthday party is scheduled to begin. If you need extra time to set up, please ask your guests to arrive a little later than your scheduled start time.

Can I bring decorations?
You are welcome to decorate using special tape that we provide in the rooms. We do not allow glitter, confetti, piñatas, push pins or live animals.

Can I bring food? How will I store it?
You are allowed to bring or have delivered all of your own food and beverages. You will have access to a kitchen, refrigerator and freezer.  All food and beverages must be kept in the party room at all times. Food and drink are not permitted in the galleries.

Can my guests and I arrive before or stay after the party?
Yes! Part of what makes a birthday party at the Phelps Youth Pavilion special is that you and your guests can arrive at any point during the day of the party and stay until we close, all for the price of the birthday package. To receive free admission to the Pavilion, your guests must mention that they are with your party. We also provide storage for gifts if guests do not want to carry them while enjoying the Pavilion.

Call (319) 291-4490 to book your party today!



Birthday party information was updated May 2008.