undefined Itinerary

Start your day with a visit to the Historic General Dodge House, the former residence of General Grenville M. Dodge, a Civil War veteran and influential figure in the development of the transcontinental railroad. Explore the beautifully preserved Victorian-era mansion and learn about General Dodge's contributions to the region. Afterward, head to the nearby RailsWest Railroad Museum, featuring exhibits on the history of railroads in Council Bluffs.

Take a scenic drive to Hitchcock Nature Center, located just outside Council Bluffs. Enjoy hiking trails that wind through prairies, forests, and along the bluffs, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Keep an eye out for wildlife and native plants along the way. After your hike, you can have a picnic at one of the designated areas in the park.

For dinner, visit Barley's Bar & Grill, a local favorite known for its craft beer selection and hearty pub food. Indulge in dishes like burgers, sandwiches, and their famous beer-battered onion rings. Afterward, head to Stir Cove, an outdoor concert venue located at Harrah's Casino, where you can catch a live performance by a popular artist or band.

Start your day with a visit to the Historic 100 Block, a charming downtown area filled with unique shops, boutiques, and art galleries. Explore the local businesses and pick up souvenirs or one-of-a-kind gifts. Afterward, visit the RailsWest Gallery, an art gallery housed in a beautifully restored historic train station, showcasing the works of local and regional artists.

Head to Lake Manawa State Park, located just a short drive from Council Bluffs. Enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, boating, or kayaking on the lake. You can also pack a picnic and relax on the sandy beach or explore the hiking trails surrounding the park. Don't forget to take in the beautiful views of the lake and its natural surroundings.

For dinner, try the famous Iowa-style barbecue at Sneaky's Chicken. Indulge in mouthwatering smoked meats, including ribs, chicken, and pulled pork, served with classic sides like baked beans and coleslaw. Afterward, visit the Ameristar Casino, where you can try your luck at the gaming tables or enjoy live entertainment at one of the bars or lounges.

Start your day with a visit to the Historic 100 Block Farmer's Market, held every Thursday and Saturday from May to October. Browse through a wide variety of fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and more. Afterward, head to the Union Pacific Railroad Museum, located in the historic Carnegie Library building, for a deeper dive into the history of the railroad.

Explore the Hitchcock House, a historic Greek Revival-style mansion that served as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Take a guided tour of the house and learn about its role in helping escaped slaves find freedom. Afterward, visit the Historic General Dodge House, the former residence of General Grenville M. Dodge, and learn about his contributions to the development of the transcontinental railroad.

For dinner, head to 712 Eat + Drink, a trendy restaurant located in the heart of Council Bluffs. Enjoy farm-to-table dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, accompanied by craft cocktails or a selection from their extensive wine list. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the River's Edge Park, a beautiful waterfront park offering stunning views of the Missouri River.

Start your day with a visit to the RailsWest Railroad Museum, featuring exhibits on the history of railroads in Council Bluffs. Learn about the role of railroads in shaping the city's development and explore the collection of vintage train cars and locomotives. Afterward, head to the nearby Historic General Dodge House and immerse yourself in the history of the transcontinental railroad.

Take a scenic drive to the DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, located just north of Council Bluffs. Explore the refuge's walking trails and observation decks, offering opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds, deer, and even bald eagles. Don't forget to visit the visitor center to learn about the importance of wetland habitats and conservation efforts.

For dinner, visit Barley's Bar & Grill, a local favorite known for its craft beer selection and hearty pub food. Indulge in dishes like burgers, sandwiches, and their famous beer-battered onion rings. Afterward, catch a movie at the Star Cinema, a classic movie theater that has been serving the Council Bluffs community for over 70 years.