Fall is here, and Council Bluffs and Pottawattamie County are full of seasonal attractions to enjoy! From outdoor fun and family-friendly adventures to unique autumn experiences, there’s something for everyone this season. Grab your favorite pumpkin spice treat and celebrate all that fall has to offer! Make a whole weekend out of your visit by staying overnight in a Council Bluffs hotel!
Festive Fall Events
This season brings a mix of community traditions, hands-on creativity, and outdoor adventures you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re looking to dive into local history, make something festive for your home, relax with friends at the orchard, or celebrate wellness with your neighbors, these upcoming events are the perfect way to embrace the spirit of fall in Council Bluffs and beyond.
Festive Fall Attractions
Historic Squirrel Cage Jail
Step inside one of Council Bluffs’ most fascinating (and haunted!) landmarks—the Historic Squirrel Cage Jail. Built in 1885, this rare three-story Victorian-Gothic structure is one of only three rotating jails left in the world. Designed with a hand-cranked, pie-shaped cell block, it offered both cutting-edge security and eerie innovation. In use until 1969, the jail has since become the subject of countless ghost stories and local legends.
Admission is just $10 for adults, $6 for public safety workers, $8 for seniors (60 and over), $5 for kids ages 6–18, and free for children five and under. They are open Thursday - Saturday 11 AM - 4 PM and Sunday 1 PM - 4 PM. Recently named a National Historic Landmark, the jail stands alongside the General Dodge House as one of Council Bluffs’ most treasured—and spine-tingling—pieces of history. Visit their website for information on booking a paranormal investigation!
Haunted History of the Squirrel Cage Jail
Madness Haunted House
As the leaves turn and the nights grow longer, the spirit of Halloween awakens in Council Bluffs, and there's no better place to embrace the thrill than at Madness Haunted House. This local gem has been scaring and delighting guests since its humble beginnings in 2012, and it has evolved into an unforgettable seasonal attraction housed at the scenic Pioneer Trail Orchard. Brave the haunted halls with General Admission for $25, skip the longer lines with a Fast Pass for $35, or jump straight into the fright with Instant Access for $50. Tickets are available both on-site and online—if you dare! Turn your scare night into a full Halloween getaway with our exclusive hotel promotion! Book a stay at any Council Bluffs hotel and receive two free General Admission tickets to Madness Haunted House—a $50 value. View more info by clicking the banner above.
Schedule & Hours
- October 29 - 31: 7 PM - 10 PM
* Parental discretion is advised.
Find Hotels Near Fall Attractions
Pumpkin Patches & Orchards
Fall wouldn’t be complete without a visit to a local family-owned pumpkin patch and orchard. Lucky for you, the area has several unforgettable patches and orchards that are sure to give you the best fall vibes! Visit our Pumpkin Patches & Orchards blog for a list of places to visit, admission information, and more.
Keep the Fall Fun Going!
Autumn in Pottawattamie County brings a perfect mix of seasonal charm and exciting activities. Check out the blogs below for even more fall inspiration!
