Woven into the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro area, the city of Council Bluffs boasts pioneer trails, railroad history and the Lewis & Clark Expedition. You can enjoy historic homes, museums, nature centres, casino entertainment and family-friendly interactive orchard experiences.
Things to do in Council Bluffs
Named for meetings between the Lewis and Clark Expedition and local native tribes in 1804, Council Bluffs hosts a dedicated monument on a scenic overlook with expansive views of the Missouri River. A series of Pioneer Trails include 200-plus sculptures interpreting pioneer journeys, with original trails and covered wagon caravans.
Stop by the Union Pacific Railroad Museum to see displays chronicling 150 years of railway history in America, including antique tickets, rail schedules, maps and photographs. Step back in time to the Civil War era with costumed guides at the Historic General Dodge House, an elaborate Victorian mansion built in 1869.
Picnic at River’s Edge Park or enjoy a game of beach volleyball and water sports at Lake Manawa Beach. At Hitchcock Nature Center, you’ll encounter native plants and wildlife while birdwatching, hiking, cycling or cross-country skiing. Travelling with the family? Spend an afternoon picking apples, cherries and peaches at Ditmars Orchard followed by hot apple cider and doughnuts in the cafe.
Dining and nightlife is found at the city’s casinos, including a mainstream concert venue and the Whiskey Roadhouse at Horseshoe Casino. Ameristar Casino features live entertainment, comedy and magic shows, with more than 30 flat-screens for watching sports.
Getting around Council Bluffs
Council Bluffs lies at the intersection of I-80 and I-29, less than a 20-minute drive from Omaha’s Eppley Airfield. You can rent a car at the airport or take a taxi, limo or shuttle. Omaha Metro operates buses throughout downtown, the suburbs and major tourist attractions.