As the nights grow longer and a chill settles into the autumn air, Council Bluffs transforms into a haven for thrill seekers, ghost hunters, and anyone who loves the spine-tingling spirit of Halloween. From historic hauntings to modern nightmares, there are plenty of ways to embrace the season of scares right here in town. Enjoy a relaxing stay in a Council Bluffs hotel and make the most of your haunted adventure — especially with our special offer of two free Madness Haunted House tickets (a $50 value) when you book an overnight stay in Council Bluffs (details below).
Madness Haunted House: A Living Nightmare
For those who crave something more theatrical, Madness Haunted House delivers heart-pounding scares. What began as a small neighborhood haunt in 2012 has grown into a full-scale horror attraction, now housed at Pioneer Trail Orchard.
Step inside, and you’ll find yourself navigating 45 minutes of chaos—clowns lurking behind dozens of doors, asylum hallways echoing with screams, and twisted rooms designed to make you question what’s real. Over 80 volunteers bring this terrifying world to life, ensuring no two visits are ever the same.
Once you’ve survived, catch your breath and indulge in funnel cakes, burgers, and other comfort foods at Apple Jacks, located right on-site. After all, even the bravest ghost hunters need fuel. And if you really want to maximize your night of scares, pair it with an overnight stay in Council Bluffs and get two free Madness Haunted House tickets — a $50 value. Visit our blog for full details and redemption info.
The Squirrel Cage Jail: History You Can Feel in the Dark
If you dare to step inside Council Bluffs’ most haunted landmark, the Historic Squirrel Cage Jail awaits. Built in 1885 on the site of a former church morgue, this three-story, revolving jail is one of only three left in the country—and the only one with three levels.
Its strange design, eerie past, and tragic stories make the jail a magnet for paranormal activity. Visitors and staff alike have reported unexplained footsteps, doors opening on their own, and shadowy figures moving through the cells. Paranormal investigators have captured EVPs, photos, and even strange EMF readings in areas with no power source. For the truly brave, overnight investigations let you spend hours inside the locked cells, listening for whispers in the dark. Ghost hunters provide equipment and guidance as you search for proof of the jail’s haunted history.
Haunted History of the Squirrel Caged Jail
More Haunted Spots to Explore
If your Halloween appetite isn’t satisfied yet, Council Bluffs offers more eerie experiences:
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Ruth Anne Dodge Memorial "The Black Angel Statue" at Fairview Cemetery, inspired by visions that came to Ruth Anne Dodge before her death, stands as one of the city’s most haunting landmarks. Learn more about the haunting history of the Black Angel here.
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Fairview Cemetery itself, with headstones dating back to 1826, offers quiet but chilling walks under the autumn moon. Guided tours are also available, which you can view here.
Plan Your Haunted Adventure
Whether you’re chasing real ghosts through historic jail cells or braving a nightmare at Madness Haunted House, Council Bluffs is the perfect destination for a fright-filled fall. Gather your bravest friends, step into the shadows, and discover why this city is a must-visit for anyone who loves the darker side of the season.
The Experience Goes Beyond
Council Bluffs offers so many unique ways to enjoy the season. From fascinating historic sites to seasonal attractions and community favorites, there’s always something new to explore. Keep the adventure going and discover even more in the blogs below! Keep the adventure going and discover even more in the blogs below! And after your spooky adventure, book your stay in Council Bluffs to make the most of your seasonal getaway.
