Friends and I booked at the Waterfront at the conclusion of Ragbrai 2025, which ended roughly 30 minutes to the south in IA. The Waterfront was a very welcome oasis after days in the saddle and outdoor camping. The hotel is new, clean, the beds were comfortable and the front desk was very accommodating upon our arrival. Their was a wedding in the third floor event space, which wasn't a sound issue, but did provide nice life to the atmosphere. We ate at the second floor restaurant, which was great and had very fun live music. The north end of the hotel with the restaurant/bar and event space really sets this place apart for other peer hotels.
It turned out there was a Blues Festival on the island, so the whole town was hopping. We didn't attend, but did take in more live music at the Blackhawk Bar (check out the 1930's art deco bar - worth a look) and found PdChien very fun all in all.
The next morning the lobby breakfast was great! Plus, the river views are pretty fantastic! It's not the Plaza, but it was worth all 5 stars to me.