Bring the family to Council Bluffs and beat the winter blahs!
Things to Do
Union Pacific Railroad Museum
Trek over to the Union Pacific Railroad Museum in Council Bluffs, where you can explore 150 years of American railroad history, sure to please every rail lover!
Squirrel Cage Jail
After learning about railroad history, head next door and tour the Squirrel Cage Jail. This rare structure is one of only three remaining rotary jails in existence. Tours are offered on Saturday afternoons throughout the winter.
"Bob the Bridge" & Tom Hanafan's River's Edge Park
Take a winter walk and go "Bobbing" across the 3,000-foot-long Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, spanning the Missouri River and connecting Council Bluffs and Omaha. On the Council Bluffs end, the fun extends to Tom Hanafan's River's Edge Park. Visitors can watch the choreographed light show or play games with the interactive spotlights.
Mount Crescent Ski Area
Ski, snowboard, snow tube and sled down the Loess Hills at the Mount Crescent Ski Area, located just north of Council Bluffs. Lessons are available, as well as equipment rentals. It's affordable fun for the entire family.
Hitchcock Nature Center
Explore Hitchcock Nature Center in a variety of ways - bring your sleds to Chute Trail, the park's sledding hill; rent snowshoes and hike the Loess Hills; or rent one of the park's rustic cabins for a cozy winter getaway. Cabins have heating, electricity, refrigerators and microwaves and modern restrooms are nearby.
Where to Eat
Pizza King
The pizza might be king at this Council Bluffs classic, but the menu also includes steak, seafood and pasta.
Tish's
Local favorite Tish's has been serving diners since 1980. The menu includes a variety of comfort food including steak, signature fettuccine and variety of delicious burgers and sandwiches.
Where to Stay
Ameristar Casino Hotel
The Ameristar complex is a AAA Four Diamond rated property that includes a casino, six restaurants and an indoor pool. Most weekends feature free entertainment and bands.