Council Bluffs IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Council Bluffs, Iowa.
1. Union Pacific Railroad Museum
RAILROAD HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Union Pacific Railroad Museum chronicles more than 150 years of American railroad history through unique artifacts and immersive interactive games. Visitors can explore the rich heritage of the first transcontinental railroad and hear tales of the pioneers who made this journey possible. Admission to this fascinating museum is free, making it an accessible attraction for history enthusiasts and families alike.
2. Horseshoe Council Bluffs
PREMIER GAMING DESTINATION
Horseshoe Council Bluffs is considered the best casino in town according to local reviews. The casino offers a Las Vegas-style gaming experience with numerous entertainment options for visitors. It has received high ratings from travelers making it a popular destination for those seeking gaming excitement.
3. Squirrel Cage Jail
UNIQUE HISTORICAL PRISON
The Squirrel Cage Jail is a specialty museum showcasing a unique historical prison design. The first three floors consisted of cells, while the fourth floor housed the jailer's apartment, offering visitors a glimpse into historical incarceration practices. This distinctive attraction provides an educational look at an unusual piece of Council Bluffs' past.
4. Lewis and Clark Monument and Scenic Overlook
HISTORIC VIEWPOINT EXPERIENCE
The Lewis and Clark Monument and Scenic Overlook offers stunning views of the Missouri Valley from its observation deck. Visitors can enjoy picnic tables and seating areas while taking in the panoramic vistas. This landmark commemorates the famous expedition while providing a beautiful outdoor space for relaxation and reflection.
5. Historic General Dodge House
VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURAL GEM
The Historic General Dodge House is a magnificent Second Empire Victorian mansion built in 1869 that stands on a high terrace overlooking the Missouri Valley. This fourteen-room, three-story home spared no expense in its construction, showcasing the frontier luxury of the era. The landmark offers visitors a step back in time to the Civil War era through its preserved architecture and historical significance.
6. Harrah's Casino
AWARD-WINNING GAMING EXPERIENCE
Harrah's Casino is a Las Vegas-style gaming destination that has earned more than 25 first-place awards from Casino Player Magazine. Its accolades include Best Casino, Best Video Poker, and Best Slot Club, highlighting its reputation for quality entertainment. The casino provides a comprehensive gaming experience for visitors seeking excitement in Council Bluffs.
7. Kanesville Tabernacle
MORMON HISTORICAL SITE
The Kanesville Tabernacle is a significant historical site with connections to Mormon pioneer history. This landmark preserves an important chapter in the westward migration story that shaped the region. Visitors can learn about the early settlers and their religious practices while exploring this unique cultural attraction.
8. Lake Manawa State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Lake Manawa State Park offers 740 acres of outdoor recreational opportunities for nature enthusiasts visiting Council Bluffs. Visitors can enjoy hiking, water sports, or simply relaxing in this natural gem within the city. The park provides a perfect escape for those seeking outdoor adventures in a scenic setting.
9. Loess Hills National Scenic Byway
UNIQUE GEOLOGICAL DRIVE
The Loess Hills National Scenic Byway offers a spectacular driving experience showcasing the area's unique geological formations. Travelers can witness the distinctive hills that were formed from wind-deposited silt during the last ice age. This scenic route provides breathtaking views and opportunities to connect with the natural landscape surrounding Council Bluffs.
10. Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
RIVER-SPANNING WALKWAY CONNECTION
The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge connects Council Bluffs to Omaha across the Missouri River since its opening in 2008. This impressive walkway allows visitors to stand in two states at once while enjoying panoramic river views. The bridge serves as both a practical connection between cities and a recreational attraction in its own right.
11. RailsWest Railroad Museum
HISTORIC TRAIN DEPOT
The RailsWest Railroad Museum is housed in an authentic 1899 train depot that brings visitors closer to the region's railroading past. Exhibits showcase artifacts and information about the crucial role railroads played in developing the American Midwest. The museum offers a hands-on historical experience that complements the city's rich railroad heritage.
12. Black Angel Statue
MYSTERIOUS CEMETERY MONUMENT
The Black Angel Statue stands as a hauntingly beautiful monument within Fairview Cemetery in Council Bluffs. This striking sculpture has become the subject of local legends and attracts visitors interested in both art and folklore. The statue represents a unique blend of cemetery art and cultural heritage that fascinates history enthusiasts.
13. Golden Spike Monument
RAILROAD HISTORY MARKER
The Golden Spike Monument commemorates Council Bluffs' significant role in transcontinental railroad history. Located at 21st Street and 9th Avenue, this landmark celebrates the city's designation by Abraham Lincoln as the eastern terminus of the first transcontinental railroad. Visitors interested in American transportation history will appreciate this monument's historical importance to the nation's development.
14. Kinsman Monument
HISTORIC CEMETERY MEMORIAL
The Kinsman Monument stands as a significant memorial within Fairview Cemetery in Council Bluffs. This historical marker pays tribute to important figures in the city's development and reflects the community's heritage. Visitors interested in genealogy and local history often seek out this monument as part of exploring the area's past.
15. Walk of Grace Chapel
SPIRITUAL REFLECTION SPACE
The Walk of Grace Chapel offers visitors a peaceful space for contemplation and spiritual reflection in Council Bluffs. This charming chapel provides a quiet retreat from the busier attractions in the area. Its architectural design and serene atmosphere make it a unique point of interest for those seeking a moment of tranquility during their visit.