There’s exciting momentum rolling through Council Bluffs. The Union Pacific Railroad Museum is celebrating a major milestone—welcoming more than 500,000 visitors through its doors. As the museum honors this accomplishment, it’s also announcing leadership promotions that signal continued growth and innovation for one of Council Bluffs’ most treasured attractions!
Leadership Moves the Mission Forward
With a continued focus on vision and visitor experience, two valued team members have stepped into expanded leadership roles. Vanessa Dobles has been promoted to Executive Director. In her new role, she will guide the museum’s long-term direction and continue building on its success. Isabelle Kaeding now serves as Manager of Communications and Hospitality. These promotions come at a pivotal time as the museum builds on its half-million-visitor milestone and looks toward exciting updates on the horizon.
A Museum That Brings American History to Life
Housed inside a beautifully restored historic Carnegie Library building in Council Bluffs, the museum offers an immersive look at more than 150 years of American railroad history. Visitors can explore “America Travels by Rail”, The Lincoln Collection, featuring artifacts from President Abraham Lincoln’s rail car and funeral, and Exhibits highlighting the innovation and technology that continue to position Union Pacific as an industry leader.
Through artifacts, photographs, documents, and equipment, the museum tells the story of the transcontinental railroad, westward expansion, and the generations shaped by rail travel.
A New Chapter: The Grand Atrium Project
The museum is also beginning phase one of its Grand Atrium Project, a multi-year renovation designed to enhance the visitor experience and showcase historic materials in new and engaging ways.
The first phase will transform The Nation Before the Railroad exhibit with custom-designed illuminated animations in the Grand Atrium. This updated space will help visitors better understand the railroad as a dynamic system shaped by human decisions and historical outcomes.
The exhibit will also feature rarely displayed materials from the Union Pacific Historic Collection, providing deeper context for the museum’s exhibits while improving accessibility for visitors. While portions of select exhibits may be temporarily closed during installation, the museum will remain open with regular hours so guests can continue exploring its many exhibits. Phase one of the renovation will be completed and open to the public in early May 2026.
All Aboard for What’s Next
Reaching 500,000 visitors is more than just a number, it’s a testament to the museum’s commitment to storytelling, education, and community connection. With a major renovation underway, strong leadership in place, the future is bright for this Council Bluffs landmark. With strong leadership in place and big changes on the horizon, the future is bright for this Council Bluffs landmark. Whether you’re a longtime local or planning your first trip, the Union Pacific Railroad Museum invites you to step inside, explore America’s rail legacy, and be part of the next chapter.
