Summer’s here and Council Bluffs is packed with fun for kids! From sunny outdoor adventures to cool indoor hangouts, there’s something to keep every kid smiling all season long. Get ready for endless play, laughter, and memories waiting to be made! Make it a full getaway and explore places to stay nearby and turn your family fun into a weekend trip.
1. Fun at the Splashpad
The best way kids can burn off energy in the summer without overheating is by playing in the splash pads! There are three splash pads in Council Bluffs, one is located at Fairmount Park, one at River's Edge Park, and the other is at Bayliss Park. Not only are the splash pads super fun and safe, but they’re also completely free! Another fun way to cool off is by attending a Hydrant Party hosted by the Council Bluffs Fire Department!
2. Play the Day Away at Dream Playground
Council Bluffs’ largest and most exciting playground can be found at Lake Manawa State Park! Dream Playground is the largest ADA-accessible playground in Iowa, and there are unlimited amounts of fun to be had here.
3. Swimming at Lake Manawa
We may be located in the middle of the country, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy a beach day with the family! There is a wonderful beach at Lake Manawa State Park that is perfect for sandcastle building, kayaking, paddle boarding, and swimming. Admission for the beach area is $3 per person, and children younger than 2-years-old are free. Kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards are available to rent as well.
4. Jump High at The Hub!
Active kiddos will love the Fly Zone Trampoline Park at the Hub! The trampoline park features an open bounce area, dunk hoops, a dodgeball court, a battle beam to joust on, a ninja warrior course, a large arcade, and more. Food and drinks are available on the premises, so it’s easy to make an entire day out of it! Don’t miss the action at the Hub Patio—home to pickleball courts and plenty of space to keep the fun going!
5. Friendly Competition at Pirate Putt
Cool off with a game of putt-putt golf at Pirate Putt! There are two 18-hole courses to choose from, and each hole has its own unique challenge! Navigate around the pirate ship, sunken treasure, and make your way through an underwater adventure.
Along the way, you’ll encounter playful obstacles and creative course designs that make every round feel like a new experience, whether you’re aiming for a casual family outing or a little friendly competition.
6. Pizza & Bowling at Bowlero
Bowlero isn’t your typical bowling alley! Enjoy bowling, arcade games, and delicious snacks and meals from McCoy’s Bar and Grill. Come on Friday or Saturday night and enjoy an evening of cosmic bowling. Beyond the lanes, you can also kick back with a full menu of tasty meals and drinks from McCoy’s Bar and Grill, making it easy to turn a quick game into a full night out.
Council Bluffs offers endless indoor fun! Check out our indoor activities blog by clicking the button below to discover exciting ways to stay entertained on rainy days or when it’s just too hot to be outside and you need to cool off!
7. Fun in the Sun at the Pools
What’s summer without a trip to the waterpark?! Council Bluffs is home to two waterparks, Katelmans and Pirate Cove. Both pools feature zero-depth areas, diving boards, water slides, and concessions.
Each waterpark offers plenty of space to relax or play, whether you’re floating in the shallow entry areas, racing down the slides, or enjoying a splash off the diving boards.Visit the City of Council Bluffs' website for more information.
8. Fresh Air Fun at Cochran Park
Kids can run, climb, and explore the playgrounds and open spaces at Cochran Park, where fun and fresh air go hand in hand. They can also discover colorful stories and vibrant art along the First Ave Trail murals, turning a walk into an exciting adventure. Plus, furry friends will love joining the fun at a Pawp-Up Pup Park event!
9. Discover Joy at Belle’s Play Garden
At Belles Playground, kids can have a blast with or without getting wet. The splash pad (mentioned earlier) sits right next to an expansive, Missouri River-themed playground—complete with a massive 15-foot pelican that’s perfect for climbing and photos! Families can also enjoy scenic strolls through Tom Hanafan River's Edge Park, soaking in river views and fresh air along the Iowa Riverfront Trail. Just steps away, the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge offers a fun bonus: kids can stand in both Iowa and Nebraska at once!
10. Gather for Storytime at Bayliss Park
Storytime at Bayliss Park invites kids to dive into magical tales that spark their imagination and bring stories to life. This beloved event is proudly presented by the Council Bluffs Public Library, bringing stories and community together in a fun, outdoor setting.
But wait! There’s more.
After a day full of adventure and fun, why not treat the kids (and yourself) to a sweet reward? Check out our Ice Cream Favorites in Council Bluffs blog for the best local spots to enjoy delicious, cool treats around Council Bluffs!
If you have older kids or teens looking for a little extra adventure, don’t miss the Thursday Night Taco Ride along the Wabash Trace Nature Trail! Turn your adventure into a full overnight experience and find a comfortable place to stay close to all the action.
