From June 8–12, 2026, Iowa Museum Week celebrates the stories, people, and places that make museums an important part of our communities. Organized by the Iowa Museum Association, this annual event highlights how museums connect us to Iowa's past while inspiring future generations.
Whether you're fascinated by railroads, intrigued by historic homes, or captivated by local history, Council Bluffs and Pottawattamie County offer museums that bring Southwest Iowa's stories to life through engaging exhibits, unique artifacts, and memorable experiences.
Visiting a museum during Iowa Museum Week? Share your experience on social media and tag your photos with #IowaMuseumWeek to join the statewide celebration of Iowa's museums, stories, and communities.
Museums in Council Bluffs
Council Bluffs offers a remarkable selection of museums catering to various interests. Each museum provides a unique glimpse into the region's rich history and cultural legacy.
Union Pacific Railroad Museum
Located in the historic Carnegie Library building, this museum chronicles the development of the Union Pacific Railroad and its pivotal role in the expansion of the American West. Through engaging exhibits and artifacts, visitors can trace the journey of the transcontinental railroad and its lasting impact on the nation.
Historic General Dodge House
Step back in time at the Historic General Dodge House, the elegant Victorian home of General Grenville M. Dodge. As a prominent railroad builder, military leader, and politician, General Dodge played a significant role in shaping the region.
Historic Squirrel Cage Jail
This three-story rotary jail, one of the last of its kind in the United States, provides a rare look at 19th-century penal architecture. Visitors can explore the eerie cells and learn about the history of incarceration practices, making for a chilling yet intriguing experience.
RailsWest History Museum
Housed in a former Chicago Rock Island, and Pacific Railroad depot, this museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of railroading in the region. With model trains, historic rail cars, and an impressive collection of railroad artifacts, it’s a delight for rail enthusiasts of all ages.
Museums in Pottawattamie County
Beyond Council Bluffs, Pottawattamie County is home to several more fascinating museums that offer a deeper dive into the local heritage and history.
- Monroe One Room Country Schoolhouse (Walnut)
- Nishna Heritage Museum (Oakland)
- Pioneer Trail Museum (Macedonia)
- Stempel Bird Museum (Macedonia)
- Sweet Vale of Avoca Museum (Avoca)
- Walnut Creek Historical Museum (Walnut)
This Iowa Museum Week, discover the stories, people, and places that make Southwest Iowa unique. From historic homes and railroad history to small-town treasures, Council Bluffs and Pottawattamie County's museums offer fun, learning, and meaningful connections for visitors of all ages.
