Located in Pottawattamie County running north to south on the Missouri River, Council Bluffs, Iowa, has fun filled activities that will keep the whole family entertained for days. Stand in two states at once and go earthcaching through the hills at the nature center, then go directly to jail – The Squirrel Cage Jail that is! Our TravelingMom says there are a million things to do in Council Bluffs, but she narrowed it down to her top 9 things to do in Council Bluffs for kids.
9 Awesome Things to Do in Council Bluffs with Kids
1. Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park
2. Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
3. Hitchcock Nature Center
4. Watson Steam Train
5. Lewis & Clark Monument
6. Historic General Dodge House
7. Bayliss Park
8. Union Pacific Railroad
9. Historic Squirrel Cage Jail
Kids are fickle creatures and it can take some maneuvering to keep them entertained, especially with varying ages and different personalities. But I discovered that isn’t an issue when visiting Council Bluffs, Iowa. While some activities are geared toward older kids, there is plenty for the young ones to do like the splash pads and Watson Steam Train.
1. Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park
Pack a picnic and enjoy the whole day enjoying all the offerings at the Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park. From a new splash pad, five acres of lush green lawn to play on and a nightly light show titled “Rays” – this isn’t your ordinary park. Also, it is one of the many access points to the Council Bluffs Trail System where visitors can go biking, running, walking and even inline skating.
2. Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
The bridge lovingly known as “Bob” spans 15 feet wide and 3,000 feet long, which for those runners or walkers is 0.9 kilometers. The wide space allows plenty of room for bicyclists and pedestrians to use the bridge to get from downtown Omaha, Nebraska to Council Bluffs, Iowa.
I know I’m not the only mom guilty of using the “I can’t be in two places at once” when they have recitals or awards ceremonies at the same time on the same day. Well, good ‘ole Bob made me a liar as I stood in Iowa and Nebraska at the same time while on the bridge.
3. Hitchcock Nature Center
The Hitchcock Nature Center is a wonderland of things to do! At the Loess Hills Interpretive Center they offer fun hands-on activities for the kids along with an observation tower 45 feet tall that gives visitors a unique birds-eye view of the rolling hills.
Spend a few days camping under the gorgeous night sky and fill your days with hiking, exploring the park with one of the adventure packs available for check out at the lodge or earthcaching.
4. Watson Steam Train
Originally built in 1948, the mini steam train has had a long history filled with lots of fun and laughter. Now owned by the Missouri Valley Parks Board, the Watson Train Station is run by a group of volunteers that live to bring smiles to all the kids that visit.
Located in the Missouri Valley City Park the trains operate seasonally from May to October. Everyone is welcome to explore the train station, learn how to send a telegraph and for just $2 take a ride on the steam train. And no – the train rides are not just for the young ones! Kids (and adults) of all ages are welcome to board the mini trains.
5. Lewis & Clark Monument
Each year thousands of kids learn about Lewis & Clark and their expedition out west. This monument honors their meeting with the Otoe and Missouri Indians during their quest and includes a scenic overlook.
My kids enjoy visiting places that they can associate with something they may have seen or heard about. The Lewis & Clark Monument brings a little bit of what they’ve learned in school to life. Something they can touch and will help jog their memories when thinking of it in the future.
6. Historic General Dodge House
Home of one of the most famous Civil War generals you’ve never heard of – General Grenville M. Dodge. Dodge was a railroad man and very influential during his time even advising President Lincoln about the Transcontinental Railroad.
Historic homes are probably not at the top of most kids’ must-visit list, but as a former homeschool mom, I find that it is a great way to combine education and travel. Get the kids involved by asking them questions or do some research beforehand and make a scavenger hunt to get them involved.
Admission is $7 for adults; $5 for seniors (over 62); $3 for students (6-18) and free for children under 6.
7. Bayliss Park
Known as “The People’s Park” Bayliss Park has been delighting locals since 1853. After undergoing a major renovation the park is now a work of art. The focal point is a magnificent “Wellspring” fountain designed by Brower Hatcher. This spot makes an eye-catching backdrop for family photos!
Let the kids run off some steam in the grassy areas or play a family game of frisbee. Then let the kids cool off running through the splash pad and climbing on the bronze squirrels that can be found throughout.
7. Union Pacific Railroad
Train enthusiasts, aka toddlers, will have a blast at the Union Pacific Railroad Museum! And so will the entire family.
There are many exhibits that take you on a historic path leading up to the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad and an interactive area on the upper floor. Learn about the real “Hell on Wheels” cities, test your strength by lifting a piece of rail and try your hand at driving a train!
Kids will be learning while having fun which will make mom very happy.
9. Historic Squirrel Cage Jail
Probably my favorite stop on our Council Bluffs journey! Spooky and a little creepy this one is geared towards older kids and teens.
Built in 1885, the Squirrel Cage Jail is the only three-story rotating jail in existence. Think lazy Susan meets pizza slice cells. There was only one way in or out, so the jailer would spin the floors until the correct cell lined up before opening. This style of jail allowed it to be controlled by only one deputy. The Squirrel Cage Jail was used until 1969!
Visitors touring today see the jail much as it was in 1969 when it closed. Original graffiti can be found on the ceilings and walls.
I said it was a little spooky, but is it haunted? Many believe it is. There have been paranormal investigators out to scour the jail for any ghosts. One employee we spoke to said she experienced ghostly activity in the form of items moving and hearing things.
Want to do a little ghost hunt? The Squirrel Cage Jail does host overnight investigations! I have to admit when I found that out I instantly started planning my next trip!
It’s $7 for adults (13+); $6 for seniors (60+) and AAA Members; $5 for children 6-12 and free for 5 and under.
I was surprised at all the kid-friendly things to do in Council Bluffs and can’t wait to take my kids!
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