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Council Bluffs’ Hidden Gems

It’s time to make the unknown known. Time to uncover the places, the history, and the happenings that make Council Bluffs Unlike Anywhere Else. On Purpose.

In celebration of National Travel & Tourism Week, we are sharing some of the hidden gems in Council Bluffs that our locals shared with us. Nothing compares to a local’s perspective!

The Cryptic Room

The Cryptic Room has won the Omaha World Herald’s Omaha Choice Award for the Best Escape Room three years in a row! (2019, 2020, and 2021). It’s a locally owned, live-action, team-based escape room located on Main Street in Council Bluffs.

Restaurants on Main Street

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Main Street is home to several restaurants beloved by the community, including Main Street Café, La Caretta Rosa, Boxer Barbeque, and Legends Café. All the restaurants are locally owned and operated.

Kanesville Kollectibles

Kanesville Kollectibles is best known for its extensive inventory of vinyl records, but also has a large selection of comics, paperback books, movies, and more! The entire second floor of their 10,000-square-foot facility holds vinyl titles available for just $1. It's a haven for vinyl enthusiasts. 

A Hidden Track and Playground?!

Tucked away in the hills, Kirn Park is the former site of the first high school in Council Bluffs. The park includes a cinder track, a playground, a football/soccer field, an open green space, and a picnic shelter! It’s a great place to escape the busyness of everyday life and enjoy some fresh air.

An Ice Cream Lover’s Paradise

Did you know that Council Bluffs is home to five locally-owned and operated ice cream shops? Between Christy Crème, Doozies, Sugar Makery BitterSweet Dessert BarTastee Treet, and Zaltes, you’re never far away from a delicious scoop of ice cream!

Bike Trails

Did you know that Council Bluffs is home to a 41-mile continuous system of trails that continues to expand? This provides tremendous recreational opportunities for both our locals and visitors.

UNcover the Rest of Council Bluffs! 

We haven’t even scratched the surface of all the undiscovered and unique places in Council Bluffs! Visit our website for a complete list of attractions, restaurants, hotels, and happenings in CB!

Did we miss your favorite hidden gem? We’d love to hear from you! Please email us at [email protected].

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509 23rd Ave.
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
844-271-6909 | 712-256-2577
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