I am excited to partner with Council Bluffs Convention and Visitor’s Bureau to share about all of the fun things to do with kids! Be sure to follow UNleash Council Bluffs on Facebook to keep updated on special events, features on area attractions, and more!
With my brother and his family living in Council Bluffs, we visit often and love to explore the attractions, outdoor fun, and special events going on!
AMC Star Council Bluffs 17 & IMAX Movie Theater
3220 23rd Avenue
- A local favorite to catch the lastest movie.
Photo provided by Travel Council Bluffs
Bayliss Park
100 Pearl Street
- Perfect gathering place for families with a beautiful fountain, performance space, Veterans Plaza, and small interactive splash pad for children. During the Summer, enjoy Music & Movies in the Park.
Broadway Skate Park
1300 W. Broadway
- Rollerblades and skateboards welcome (bikes prohibited). Admission is free. Park is open during daylight hours year-round (weather permitting).
Photo provided by Travel Council Bluffs
Council Bluffs Public Library
400 Willow Ave
- Enjoy special events, regular storytimes, and fun programs for kids, teens, and adults throughout the year!
- The Council Bluffs Makerspace, located on the second floor, features MacPro computers and a wide variety of software for creative production. Additionally, Board Games can also be borrowed with your library card (ages 11 and older) and used in the library.
Fairmount Park
- Features splash park, playground, and scenic picnic areas.
Historic General Dodge House
605 3rd Street
- The only registered National Historic Landmark in Council Bluffs, this beautiful historically authentic Victorian home was built in 1869 by General Grenville M. Dodge, a Civil War veteran, and the “greatest railroad builder of all time.” Participates in Railroad Days during the Summer.
In Motion Bounce & Gymnastics
1751 Madison Ave (in the Mall of the Bluffs)
- Open jump, special events, recreational gymnastics, birthday parties, and more.
Joe’s Karting
2121 S 32nd St.
- Fun indoor karting facility featuring racing, race classes, racing leagues, parties, and more.
Kanesville Tabernacle & Visitor Center
222 E. Broadway
- During Christmas season, see the beautifully created gingerbread houses where kids can participate in a fun scavenger hunt.
Lake Manawa State Park
1100 S. Shore Drive
- Enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and trails. Kids will enjoy playing at the amazing Dream Playground.
Lewis & Clark Monument Scenic Overlook
29385 Monument Road
- Offers beautiful scenic view. Dedicated in 1936 to honor the expedition of Lewis and Clark in 1804 and their historic meeting with Otoe and Missouri Indians.
Mall of the Bluffs Children’s Play Area
Soft Play Area Court next to The Children’s Place
- Offers a fun indoor play area for kids.
RailsWest Railroad Museum
500 16th Avenue
- Built in 1899, today it includes a museum, railcars, and a model railroad display. Participates in Railroad Days during the Summer.
Shady Lane Ranch
17744 Shady Lane
- Specializes in horseback riding, hayrack rides in Fall, and party facilities.
Squirrel Cage Jail
226 Pearl Street
- Experience this unique one-of-a-kind 3-story structure. Named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
The Hub Trampoline Park
7 S 4th St, Council Bluffs, IA
- The Hub is the one and only family entertainment facility in Council Bluffs, Iowa, and is home to The Hub Trampoline Park & Ninja Warrior Course and Central Athletics Cheer & Tumbling.
Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park
Council Bluffs side of Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
- Hosts concerts, movies, annual community events including Loessfest, and family gatherings.
Recreational Trails
- Perfect for walking or biking, these extensive paved trails include the Iowa Riverfront Trail and Lake Manawa Recreation Trail. Link to download Metro Area Trail Map.
Union Pacific Railroad Museum
200 Pearl Street
- Free Admission. Experience the history of the Union Pacific Railroad. Participates in Railroad Days during the Summer.
Wabash Trace Nature Trail
- Perfect for a scenic bike ride, this converted railroad right-of-way runs from Council Bluffs on the north to Blanchard on the Iowa/Missouri Border.
Summer Fun
Hydrant Parties
- Enjoy hydrant parties around the city hosted by the Council Bluffs Fire Department.
Waterparks
Both have zero-depth area and play features, and diving board.
- Katelman Water Park – 1230 16th Ave.
- Pirate Cove Water Park – 915 N. 21st St.
Sunset in Council Bluffs
Be sure to follow UNleash Council Bluffs on Facebook to keep updated on special events, features on area attractions, and more!
Disclosure: Many thanks to Council Bluffs Convention and Visitor’s Bureau for sponsoring this post and partnering with us to bring you the fun things to do in Council Bluffs.
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