Kids are back in school, and we’ve curated a list of fun ways to keep the learning going outside the classroom! In Council Bluffs, the whole city transforms into a hands-on learning experience. From social studies and science to art and physical education, everyday adventures connect perfectly with what students are learning at school. Whether it’s exploring local museums, diving into nature, or discovering the arts, Council Bluffs offers endless opportunities to make learning come alive.
Art/Music: Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center
Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center is like a giant playground for creativity. Located in the historic Haymarket District, this huge building is filled with colorful art galleries, studios where real artists work, and classrooms where kids can learn new skills. You can see paintings, sculptures, and other amazing creations up close—and then get inspired to make your own masterpiece in art class.
Language Arts: Council Bluffs Public Library
Council Bluffs Public Library is an awesome place to explore stories and let your imagination run wild. Of course, there are tons of books to read, but there’s also so much more! Whether you love reading, writing, or just discovering something new, the library is the perfect spot to learn and have fun!
Social Studies: Union Pacific Railroad Museum
Step back in time at the Union Pacific Railroad Museum, where history feels like an adventure! The museum is inside a beautiful old building that used to be a library, and it’s filled with cool artifacts like photos, documents, and treasures from the railroad. You can explore the Building America exhibit, which uses video-game style technology to make learning super fun, or imagine what it was like to ride the rails during the golden age of train travel.
Physical Education: Council Bluffs Trails
For physical education, the trails in Council Bluffs are like giant adventure paths just waiting to be explored! You can walk, run, ride your bike, or even rollerblade while breathing in fresh air and having fun outside. The Wabash Trace Nature Trail is perfect for a big biking adventure, the Fairmount Park Trails twist and turn through trees, and the Vincent Bluff State Preserve Trail has awesome views from the top. Check out all of our trails here and pick your next adventure!
Science: Hitchcock Nature Center
Hitchcock Nature Center is like a giant outdoor lab where kids can explore, discover, and learn. Nestled in the Loess Hills, it’s home to plants and animals you won’t find anywhere else in Iowa!
Explore. Learn. Discover.
In Council Bluffs, learning doesn’t stop when the school bell rings—it’s all around you. From exploring the past at local museums to discovering the wonders of nature, practicing creativity through the arts, or staying active outdoors, every adventure is a chance to connect with what you’re learning in class. So grab your curiosity, head out into the city, and see just how fun learning can be when your classroom is Council Bluffs.
