Get Your Fun On: The Best Places to Visit and Things to Do in Council Bluffs, Iowa

Council Bluffs was the eastern terminus of the first transcontinental railroad, and the town still runs on that. Two railroad museums, the Union Pacific in the old Carnegie Library and the Railswest in the Rock Island Depot. The Squirrel Cage Jail was built in 1885 with a rotating cell block. Walking is easy here. The Wabash Trace Nature Trail runs 63 miles, the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge crosses the Missouri into Nebraska, and Lake Manawa State Park circles a 772-acre lake.

Planning a trip to Council Bluffs, Iowa, you are in for a treat. This city carries a broad range of activities and attractions covering every age. The city’s history through to the food, there is plenty here.

History readers do well in Council Bluffs. The city played a real part in the development of the United States, serving as the eastern terminus of the first transcontinental railroad. The Union Pacific Railroad Museum covers that history, with a collection of artifacts and exhibits from the railroad industry.

For something with more risk in it, Council Bluffs has several casinos running table games, slot machines and sports betting. Feeling lucky, head to Horseshoe Council Bluffs or Ameristar Casino Hotel.

Key Takeaways

Council Bluffs offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.
The city has a rich history, and visitors can learn more about it at the Union Pacific Railroad Museum.
Council Bluffs has several casinos that offer a variety of gaming options.

A Peek into History

History readers have plenty to work through in Council Bluffs. These are the historical attractions in the area:

Union Pacific Railroad Museum

All aboard. The Union Pacific Railroad Museum covers the history of railroads in the United States. The museum sits in the former Carnegie Library building and runs exhibits on the transcontinental railroad, railroad history, and the role of the Union Pacific Railroad in shaping the country. Antique railroad tickets, railway uniforms and old rail schedules are all in there. Rail people should not miss it.

Squirrel Cage Jail

Step back in time at the Squirrel Cage Jail, a National Historic Landmark that once worked as a jail. It was built in 1885 with a rotating jail cell block that let guards monitor every cell from one position. The jail was in use until 1969 and is a museum now, covering its own history and the prisoners held there.

General Dodge House

General Grenville Dodge was a Civil War veteran and a key figure in the construction of the transcontinental railroad. His former home, the General Dodge House, is a museum now covering his life and his place in American history. The house is filled with artifacts and exhibits from the life of Abe Lincoln’s friend.

Kanesville Tabernacle

The Kanesville Tabernacle is a historic building that was once a meeting place for members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It was constructed in 1847 and served as a gathering place for Mormon pioneers heading west. It is used for community events now and it is open to visitors who want the history of the area.

Railswest Railroad Museum

The Railswest Railroad Museum sits in the historic Rock Island Depot building and preserves the history of railroads in Council Bluffs. The exhibits cover railroad memorabilia, antique tickets and railway uniforms among them. There is a collection of historic rail cars and locomotives there too.

Western Historic Trails Center

The Western Historic Trails Center tells the story of the pioneers who traveled west on the Oregon, California and Mormon Pioneer trails. The exhibits cover the history of the trails, with interactive displays and artifacts from the era. The museum also covers the role of Council Bluffs in the westward expansion of the United States.

Council Bluffs carries a long history and these attractions are only part of it. History reader or someone filling a day, these museums and landmarks hold up.

Casino Extravaganza

For a night with some risk in it, Council Bluffs is the place. With two of the strongest casinos in the area, the evening takes care of itself.

Ameristar Casino

The Ameristar Casino is where the serious gambling is. With over 1,500 slot machines and table games like craps, blackjack and roulette, you will not run out of options. Feeling lucky, head to the poker room for one of the daily tournaments. Racing fans can bet on live horse and dog races from around the country.

Horseshoe Council Bluffs

The Horseshoe Council Bluffs is the other option for a night out. With over 1,700 slot machines and the usual table games, something will suit. Sports fans get the casino’s sportsbook.

Whichever casino you pick, the evening works. Grab a lucky rabbit’s foot and head to Council Bluffs.

Outdoor Adventures

For outdoor time in Council Bluffs, you are in luck. There are plenty of options, whether you want a leisurely stroll or something harder.

Lake Manawa State Park

Lake Manawa State Park handles a day outdoors. The park is named after the 772-acre oxbow lake that a flood in 1881 left behind for Council Bluffs. Hike or bike around the lake, fish, boat, or sit on the beach. The park also runs picnic areas, a playground and a campground if you want to stay.

Wabash Trace Nature Trail

For a scenic bike ride or hike, check out the Wabash Trace Nature Trail. The trail runs 63 miles through the countryside of southwest Iowa, including Council Bluffs. You pass through small towns, over bridges, and along the overlook above the Missouri River. The trail is also part of the Mormon Trail, so the history comes with it.

Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park

Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park is where outdoor people should go. The park sits right on the Missouri River with the water in view. Walk or bike the riverfront trail, fish, or sit in the park’s green space. There is a playground, a splash pad and a pavilion you can rent for events.

A leisurely stroll or something harder, Council Bluffs covers both. Grab the hiking boots or the bike and head out.

Fun For All Ages

For activities the whole family can do in Council Bluffs, these are the options. All of them work for a mixed group.

Dream Playground

Head over to Dream Playground for an afternoon outdoors. The playground is designed for children of all abilities, so nobody sits out. Swings, slides and climbing structures cover the rest. The greenery around it makes it work for a picnic too.

AMC Council Bluffs 17

For a movie, check out AMC Council Bluffs 17. With 17 screens, something will suit any group. The seating is comfortable and the snack counter is a broad one. Check their website for showtimes and deals.

Pirate Putt

Grab an eye patch and head over to Pirate Putt for a round of mini-golf. The pirate-themed course works for every age, with challenging holes and plenty of obstacles. Afterwards, the arcade handles the video games and the mechanical ones.

Kids Quest

For somewhere to leave the children while you run errands, Kids Quest is the answer. The play area runs craft projects, go-karts and plenty else to keep them occupied. There is a party room available for special events too.

The history comes first in Council Bluffs. Downtown holds Bayliss Park, the Union Pacific Railroad Museum, the Squirrel Cage Jail and the General Dodge House, all within a walk of each other. The Kanesville Tabernacle and the Railswest Railroad Museum are close. The casinos sit on the river. So is the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, and Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park sits beside it. Lake Manawa State Park is south and the Wabash Trace Nature Trail runs out from there.

Culinary Delights

Anyone who takes food seriously will do well in Council Bluffs, with a diverse set of eateries running classic American fare through to international cooking. These are the spots to find:

Barley’s Bar & Grill: If you’re looking for a hearty meal and a cold beer, Barley’s is the place to be. Their menu features classic pub grub like burgers, wings, and nachos, as well as some tasty surprises like their famous smoked brisket sandwich.
The 712 Initiative: This community-focused space is home to a full-fledged brewing operation, as well as a cafe and event space. Stop in for a cup of locally roasted coffee and a pastry, or try one of their unique beers like the “Funky Farmer” saison.
Taqueria El Rey: For authentic Mexican cuisine, head to Taqueria El Rey. Their menu is packed with flavorful dishes like tacos al pastor, chile rellenos, and carne asada. Don’t forget to try their homemade salsa!
Dixie Quicks: This funky eatery is known for its creative takes on classic Southern dishes. Try the “Fried Green Tomato BLT” or the “Shrimp & Grits” for a taste of the South in the heart of Council Bluffs.
Caddy’s Kitchen & Cocktails: If you’re looking for upscale dining with a view, Caddy’s is the spot. Their menu features elevated comfort food like lobster mac & cheese and bacon-wrapped filet mignon, and their rooftop patio offers stunning views of the city.

Whatever you are in the mood for, Council Bluffs has it. Grab a fork, or a pint glass, and dig in.

Events and Concerts

Council Bluffs is known for its events and concerts. Music lover, anyone who takes food seriously, or someone after an evening out, something is always running here.

The Westfair Amphitheater Summer Concert Series is the popular event in Council Bluffs. The outdoor venue hosts live music through the summer months, classic rock, country and pop among them. Bring a blanket and some snacks and take the night under the stars.

For something more low-key, check out the Farmers Market Council Bluffs. Held every Thursday evening from May to September, the market runs fresh produce, handmade crafts and live music. It handles a meal, some shopping and an hour of local talent at once.

Beer people should catch the Council Bluffs Beer Fest. Held every fall, the festival runs over 100 different craft beers from around the country. Sample something new, listen to the live music and fill a day.

Classic car people get the West Pottawattamie County Fairgrounds, which hosts several automotive shows through the year. Classic muscle cars through to vintage hot rods, the range covers most enthusiasms.

Whatever your interests, Council Bluffs covers the events and concerts. Grab the friends, the family or your other half and go.

Unique Attractions

For something out of the ordinary in Council Bluffs, check out these attractions.

Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

First on the list is the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. This is not an ordinary bridge; it connects two states. You walk across the Missouri River and stand in two states at once. It is exercise and a view over the river and the surrounding area at the same time. Grab the walking shoes and head over.

Cryptic Room

For something more mysterious, the Cryptic Room. This escape room is not the usual sort. It runs puzzles, clues and riddles that will test the group properly. Whether you get out in time is the question. Gather the friends and find out.

Walking across two states or solving a mystery, Council Bluffs carries some genuinely unusual attractions.

Scenic Spots

For a break from the city, Council Bluffs has some strong scenic spots. These are the two to find:

Bayliss Park

Bayliss Park is a small park in the heart of Council Bluffs and it is genuinely peaceful. The fountain there photographs well and it is a fine place to sit. Benches surround it. Take a stroll around the park for the flowers and the trees.

For a picnic, Bayliss Park is the spot. There are plenty of tables and benches for a meal with family or friends. And with luck you catch one of the concerts held in the park during the summer, which cost nothing to attend.

Ditmars Orchard

For somewhere further out of town, Ditmars Orchard is worth the trip. The orchard sits a short drive outside Council Bluffs with the countryside around it.

Beyond the scenery, Ditmars Orchard runs plenty to do. Pick your own apples, take a hayride, or work the corn maze. And the orchard has a café serving meals made with fresh, local ingredients.

A fountain to sit by or the countryside to explore, Council Bluffs covers both.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some free things to do in Council Bluffs that won’t break the bank?

You are in luck, because Council Bluffs has plenty that costs nothing. Take a stroll through Bayliss Park or work through the Lewis and Clark Monument Park. For something more adventurous, hit the trails at the Hitchcock Nature Center or check out the Western Historic Trails Center. And stop by the Union Pacific Railroad Museum for the history of railroading in Council Bluffs.

What’s the best way to stuff my face with delicious food in Council Bluffs?

Council Bluffs eats well. Start the day with breakfast at Dixie Quicks or 712 Eat + Drink. For lunch, head to Barley’s Bar or Big Mama’s Kitchen for the comfort food. And for dinner, a steak from 801 Chophouse or a wood-fired pizza from Via Farina. Save room for dessert at the Chocolate Moose.

Yes. For a laid-back room, check out the 100 Block Bar or the Whiskey Roadhouse at Horseshoe Casino. For something more upscale, the Rooftop Skyline Lounge or the Cellar 19 Wine & Deli. And for live music, the Stir Cove Concert Series at Harrah’s Casino, which gives you a drink and a show.

Frequently asked questions about Council Bluffs, Iowa

What exactly is the Squirrel Cage Jail in Council Bluffs, Iowa?

A National Historic Landmark that worked as a functioning jail from 1885 right through until 1969. The cell block rotates, which let a single guard watch every cell in the building from one position. It is a museum now, and it is comfortably the strangest building in town.

How long is the Wabash Trace Nature Trail near Council Bluffs?

63 miles of it, running out through the countryside of southwest Iowa. It passes small towns, bridges and an overlook above the Missouri River, and part of it follows the old Mormon Trail. Ride a section rather than the whole thing.

Can you really walk from Iowa into Nebraska in Council Bluffs?

Yes. The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge crosses the Missouri River, so you can stand in two states at the same time, and the views along it are the other reason to go. Do it at sunset.

Keep exploring Council Bluffs, Iowa