*This blog contains graphic images of costumes and characters from Madness Haunted House. Parental discretion is advised.
As the leaves turn and the nights grow longer, Halloween spirit comes alive in Council Bluffs—and there’s no better way to embrace it than at Madness Haunted House. Since 2012, this local haunt has grown from a neighborhood driveway scare into one of the region’s most unforgettable attractions, now hosted at the scenic Pioneer Trail Orchard.
Special Deal: Book an overnight stay at a Council Bluffs hotel and receive two free tickets to Madness Haunted House — a $50 value! (Terms and conditions below.)
A Local Legacy of Fear
Madness began with three friends in co-founder Josh Bellows’ driveway before moving to the Mall of the Bluffs in 2016. By 2021, a chance partnership brought the haunt to Pioneer Trail Orchard, where it has flourished ever since—anchoring itself as a fall tradition deeply rooted in the Council Bluffs community.
An Immersive Experience Like No Other
What makes Madness different? The cast. A team of over 80 people brings the nightmare to life, including 60 scare artists working any night. That energy turns a simple walkthrough into a 45-minute plunge into chaos.
Dare to face the Klown Korner, a labyrinth of 30 doors hiding 10 clowns. Or test your courage in Butchers Bayou and Kainsville Asylum, home to a chilling Exorcist room. And don’t forget the hidden “madness doors”—random twists that can send you backtracking or repeating rooms when you least expect it.
Make a Night of It
Come for the Chaos, Stay for the Comfort.
Turn your scare night into a getaway with our exclusive hotel promotion. Book a stay at any Council Bluffs hotel and get two free general admission tickets to Madness Haunted House (a $50 value). Simply email a copy of your reservation confirmation or receipt (PDF or screenshot) at least 48 hours before your visit so we can coordinate will-call pickup with Madness staff.
Please note: This promotion is valid only for stays at Council Bluffs hotels and must be redeemed through our office—not the hotel or attraction. To receive your free tickets, please email your confirmation to [email protected] or upload it using the link below.
It’s the perfect retreat after a night of unimaginable terror.
Email Us Your Booking Confirmation
Satisfy Your Hunger for Thrills and Treats
Once you’ve survived the haunt, grab a table at Apple Jacks, located on the same grounds. Their menu has everything from burgers and Philly sandwiches to tacos, pork tenderloins, and funnel cakes—ideal comfort food to help you wind down after all those jump scares.
A Commitment to Community
Madness isn’t just about fear—it’s also about heart. Co-owner Bryon Beins shares that the haunt provides a positive, creative outlet for local youth, helping them build life skills while having fun. Madness also donates proceeds to local nonprofits, including Sail On and Fly High, which focuses on youth suicide prevention.
Make a Weekend of It
Council Bluffs is full of eerie adventures beyond Madness. Step inside the Historic Squirrel Cage Jail, one of the nation’s last revolving jails, where paranormal investigators and visitors alike have reported shadowy figures and unexplained voices. Stroll through Fairview Cemetery under the autumn moon or seek out the city’s legendary Black Angel Statue, a chilling landmark with a story all its own.
Ready for more?
Plan Your Visit
Madness Haunted House runs from September 19 to October 31, with hours from 7 PM to 12 AM. Tickets are reasonably priced at $25 for general admission, with options for VIP and Instant Access Passes for those eager to skip the line. Group discounts and season passes are also available, making it easy to gather your friends for a night of fright. Visit their website to view dates of operation and more pricing information.
This Halloween season, venture into the heart of Council Bluffs and experience the thrill of Madness Haunted House. Whether you're a horror aficionado or just looking for a fun night out, you won't want to miss this extraordinary blend of fear, community, and excitement. Grab your friends, come hungry, and prepare for an unforgettable night!
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!
