Along the Missouri River just across from Omaha, Council Bluffs, Iowa, is a hidden gem that offers visitors the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city convenience. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or looking to explore beyond the usual tourist trails, this city has plenty to offer. Rich in railroad history and known for its scenic parks, quirky attractions, and welcoming vibe, Council Bluffs invites you to slow down, dig in, and enjoy the best of the Midwest.
From fascinating museums and historic landmarks to local dining favorites and outdoor escapes, Council Bluffs offers a wealth of surprises for travelers of all interests. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, foodie, or family on the go, you’ll find plenty of things to do, eat, and see. This guide will take you through the can’t-miss experiences that make Council Bluffs more than just Omaha’s neighbor – it’s a destination all its own.
Things to Do in Council Bluffs
Hear Some History at the Union Pacific Railroad Museum
Where? 200 Pearl St
Located inside a beautifully preserved 1903 Carnegie Library building, the Union Pacific Railroad Museum is one of Council Bluffs’ must-see attractions. The museum showcases the incredible legacy of the Union Pacific Railroad and its pivotal role in shaping the American West and beyond. With its elegant Beaux-Arts architecture and well-curated exhibits, it offers a journey through time for visitors of all ages.
Inside, you’ll find immersive displays that bring history to life – from the monumental construction of the transcontinental railroad to the golden era of passenger rail. Highlights include the “Building America” gallery, the Lincoln Collection with original artifacts from Abraham Lincoln’s railcar, and vintage travel memorabilia in the “America Travels by Rail” exhibit. Interactive features, such as a train simulator and a working telegraph station, make it engaging for kids and train buffs alike. Best of all, admission is free, making this museum a fun, educational, and budget-friendly stop in the heart of Council Bluffs.
Get Locked Away at the Squirrel Cage Jail
Where? 226 Pearl St
Council Bluffs is home to a bizarre piece of 19th-century ingenuity – and a must-visit for history and architecture buffs. Built in 1885, the Pottawattamie County Jail earned its iconic nickname from its unique rotary “squirrel cage” design – a massive, three-story rotating cylinder of pie-shaped cells. The jailer could crank the entire block to align any cell with the single doorway, minimizing inmate contact while maximizing security. To date, it remains the only three-level rotary jail ever built – one of just three left in existence.
After closing its doors in 1969, the structure was preserved as a museum and is now operated by the Pottawattamie County Historical Society. Visitors can tour the fascinating interior, complete with original graffiti etched into cell walls, the old kitchen where jail staff and inmates ate, and the jailer’s fourth-floor apartment. While the rotating mechanism no longer works, you can still grasp how the “lazy Susan” system functioned and why it was deemed both innovative and dangerous. This eerie, unforgettable stop is best explored via guided or self-guided tour – it’s history, architecture, and a touch of the paranormal all in one.
Just a short walk away, visitors interested in the historical side of Council Bluffs will also enjoy learning about the history of The Bregant House museum, a 1908 house built to accommodate the physical stature of its occupants. (Just make sure you schedule a reservation online ahead of time.)
Take a Hike at Lake Manawa State Park
Where? 1100 S Shore Dr
Just a short drive south of downtown Council Bluffs, Lake Manawa State Park provides a refreshing dose of nature and adventure for visitors of all ages. Spread across 1,529 acres around a 700-acre oxbow lake formed after historic Missouri River flooding, the park’s name – “Manawa” – comes from a Native American term meaning “peace and comfort.”
You’ll find a wide variety of accessible trails here. The paved Lake Manawa Trail loops around the lake and connects to Council Bluffs’ larger trail network, covering about four miles. For shorter strolls, the Loop Trail (0.5 miles) and Interior Trail (0.65 miles) are perfect for families, cyclists, and walkers of all abilities. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore the 8 miles of unpaved Sidewinder and Canal Loop trails, which run alongside the Missouri River and through wooded areas. Expect scenic water views, abundant wildlife, and opportunities for birdwatching – especially bald eagles in winter.
On top of hiking, the park is a hub for water activities. You can swim at the sandy beach, kayak or paddleboard, rent a canoe, and fish for bass, walleye, catfish, and bluegill – complete with ADA-accessible piers and facilities. There’s also a fantastic Dream Playground, Iowa’s largest ADA-accessible playground, inspired by local history, picnic shelters, volleyball courts, and fishing jetties.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful walk, a family day out, or a bike and paddle combo, Lake Manawa State Park provides a full day of fun and relaxation just minutes from Council Bluffs.
Where to Eat in Council Bluffs
Eat Elevated American Food at 712 Eat + Drink
Where? 1851 Madison Ave #700
Named after Council Bluffs’ area code, 712 Eat + Drink brings contemporary American flair to the city’s dining scene. Housed in a stylish, open-concept space featuring a 44-foot mural celebrating local history and culture, the restaurant offers an approachable yet elevated menu built on scratch-made dishes using locally sourced produce and proteins. The menu transforms Midwestern comfort food into refined plates – think fried pickles with rosemary ranch, lobster mac-and-cheese, and peach pork chops or steak and fries entrées – all complemented by a selection of small plates and hearty brunch items.
The bar is a highlight of its own, featuring 23 taps pouring regional craft beers, prosecco on tap, a robust wine list, and handcrafted cocktails like the “712 Fashioned” and seasonal spritzes. Whether you’re stopping in for weekend brunch, gathering for Happy Hour (daily 3-6 p.m.), or enjoying dinner with friends, this modern bistro delivers both vibrant atmosphere and quality fare that resonates with locals and visitors alike. With friendly service, thoughtful design, and a focus on community flavors, 712 Eat + Drink stands out as a must-visit in Council Bluffs.
Bite Into a Burger at Barley’s Bar & Grill
Where? 114 W Broadway
Located in the heart of the Historic 100 Block – a district listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 2002 – Barley’s Bar & Grill combines architectural charm with a modern pub vibe. It’s housed in one of the area’s beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere highlighted by exposed brick, vintage furnishings, and a bustling bar.
Barley’s serves up more than just burgers – it’s a full experience with a menu that spans scratch-made comfort food, gourmet sandwiches, and craft cocktails. You’ll find standout dishes like the Barley Burger topped with bacon and red onion marmalade, as well as rotating monthly specialties and a robust happy hour. With 32 local and craft beers on tap and a lively crowd that spans families, happy hour-goers, and event groups in its three rentable party rooms, Barley’s has become a cornerstone of Council Bluffs’ dining and social scene.
Have a Taste of Comfort Food at Home Team Cookout
Where? 3150 24th Ave
If your appetite leans toward hearty, nostalgic meals cooked with care, Home Team Cookout is the spot for you. This neighborhood grill takes comfort food seriously – serving everything from crispy chicken-fried steak and oversized tenderloin sandwiches to wings and pastas, all made from scratch and prepared fresh to order.
The warm, family-friendly atmosphere feels like dining at a favorite aunt’s kitchen table. Whether you’re digging into their award-winning tenderloin or savoring grilled or crispy chicken paired with classic sides like mac-and-cheese or potato salad, every bite delivers on flavor and portion. It’s a reliable go-to for satisfying meals that feel like a warm hug after a day of exploring Council Bluffs.
What to See in Council Bluffs
Enjoy a Picnic at Bayliss Park
Where? 100 Pearl St
In the heart of downtown Council Bluffs, Bayliss Park is more than just a green space; it’s the city’s historic town square, founded in 1853 on land donated by Samuel Bayliss. The park’s centerpiece is the stunning “Wellspring” fountain – a 31‑foot sculptural feature adorned with dancing LED-lit waters, designed by noted sculptor Browner Hatcher during the 2006 renovation. Surrounded by mature oak and hackberry trees, the space invites relaxed afternoons with a beautiful backdrop.
More than just a picturesque picnic spot, Bayliss Park features family-friendly amenities like a splash pad, whimsical black squirrel sculptures, and a raised performance pavilion framed by a domed “Oculus,” also designed by Hatcher. Four formal entrances connect the park to surrounding bike paths and city streets, making it an ideal stop during a riverfront stroll or downtown exploration. Whether it’s a seasonal concert, a leisurely lunch on the lawn, or sunset fountain views with a loved one, Bayliss Park is a charming, versatile destination you won’t want to miss.
Remember the Railroad at the Golden Spike Monument
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Where? 2073 9th Ave
The Golden Spike Monument stands as a monumental tribute to the completion of the nation’s first transcontinental railroad. Located at Milepost 0.0 in Council Bluffs, Iowa, this 56-foot golden concrete spike was erected in 1939 to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the historic event. The monument was constructed in just 10 days by 14 men, for $3,500, and was completed on April 26, 1939.
The Golden Spike Monument serves as a reminder of the pivotal role the railroad played in shaping the nation’s history. It marks the eastern terminus of the Union Pacific Railroad, which, in 1869, connected the eastern and western United States, revolutionizing transportation and commerce. Visitors to the site can reflect on this significant achievement and its lasting impact on the country’s development.
Stand Where Lincoln Once Stood at the Lincoln Monument
Where? Lafayette Ave
The Lincoln Monument in Council Bluffs commemorates a pivotal moment in American history. In August 1859, Abraham Lincoln, accompanied by engineer Grenville M. Dodge, surveyed the area from this very spot to select the eastern terminus for the nation’s first transcontinental railroad. The monument, a 56-foot-tall concrete pylon, was erected in July 1911 to honor this significant event.
Situated within the Lincoln-Fairview Historic District, the monument offers expansive views of the Missouri River Valley and the city of Omaha across the river. The surrounding 1.5-acre park features a grand staircase leading to the city trail system, making it a serene spot for reflection and a deeper appreciation of the region’s historical significance.
Explore the History of the American West at Western Historic Trails Center
Where? 3434 Richard Downing Ave
Located just off I‑80 near Richard Downing Avenue, the Western Historic Trails Center offers a compelling journey into the 19th-century pioneer era. Council Bluffs was a major “jumping‑off” point for the Lewis & Clark, Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails, and this center brings that legacy to life through interactive exhibits, immersive films, and detailed historical maps. You’ll discover how early travelers disassembled covered wagons to ferry them across the Missouri River before embarking on their cross-country treks.
Spread across more than 400 acres of restored prairie, the center’s outdoor space includes walking and biking trails that wind through river bottom woods along the Missouri River. Visitors can also enjoy a self-guided tour of interpretive signs and sculptures, as well as weekly programs like pioneer‑era musical jams – a nod to the rhythms of the frontier. Since opening in October 1997, it has welcomed tens of thousands of annual visitors and remains free to the public. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family looking for engaging activities, or just curious about America’s westward expansion, this center provides a moving, educational, and beautifully scenic experience.
Discover Council Bluffs One Stop at a Time
From storied railroads and frontier legends to flavorful bites and serene parks, Council Bluffs blends rich history with modern charm in all the right ways. Whether you’re wandering through museums, snapping photos at quirky landmarks, or savoring local comfort food, this riverside city invites you to slow down and soak it all in. It’s a place where the past meets the present, and every corner offers something new to see, taste, or explore. So pack your curiosity and come experience all the unexpected treasures Council Bluffs has to offer.