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 community traditions, hands-on creativity, and outdoor adventures across Council Bluffs and beyond. Explore local history, create festive projects, unwind at the orchard, and connect with neighbors through events that capture the spirit of fall.
- Fall Candle Making Workshop
September 19 | 1 PM | Looft Hall at Iowa Western - Fall Flannel Fling
September 26 | 6 PM | Ditmars Orchard & Vineyard - Guided Tour: Squirrel Cage Jail
October 1 | 5 PM | Historic Squirrel Cage Jail - Mystic Fest
October 3 - 4 | Mid-America Center - All Hallows Eve Festival
October 3 | 4:30 PM | Botna Bend Park - Legends and Lore - The Dark History of Council Bluffs
October 3 | 7 PM | Historic General Dodge House - Harvest Party
October 4 | 3 PM | Living Hope Community Church - History and Facts of Squirrel Cage Jail
October 5 | 6:30 PM | Council Bluffs Public Library - Callahan Promotions, Inc. Arts & Crafts Show
October 10 - 11 | Mid-America Center - Arrowhead Park Chili Fest
October 10 | 4 PM | Arrowhead Park - Virtual Road Trip to Local Haunts
October 10 | 7 PM | Historic General Dodge House - Paranormal in the Metro
October 12 | 6:30 PM | Council Bluffs Public Library - Haunted Bluffs: Session 3 - RailsWest History Museum
October 13 | 7 PM | RailsWest History Museum - YMCA Spooktacular
October 16 | 5 PM | Charles E. Lakin YMCA - Behind the Veil - A Victorian-Inspired Vigil
October 17 | 6 PM | Historic General Dodge House - Bones and Blacklights | Unearthing Nature's Secrets in Skulls
October 17 | 6:30 PM | Crescent Hill at Hitchcock - Guided Walking Tour: Fairview Cemetery
October 19 | 6 PM | Fairview Cemetery - Haunted Bluffs: Session 3 - The Bregant House
October 19 | 7 PM | Bregant House - 7th Annual Halloween Witchy Woods Walk with Dustin Clayton
October 24 | 2 PM | Hitchcock Nature Center - Halloween Candlelight Tours
October 24 | 6 PM | Historic General Dodge House - Iowa Army National Guard Trunk or Treat
October 25 | 2 PM | Council Bluffs Readiness Center - Haunted Bluffs: Session 6 - Evidence Review
October 27 | 7 PM | Looft Hall at Iowa Western - Guided Tour: Squirrel Cage Jail
October 29 | 5 PM | Historic Squirrel Cage Jail - Willow Wreath Craft
October 29 | 6 PM | Council Bluffs Public Library - The Mercantile Market
October 31 | 9 AM | East Pottawattamie Fairgrounds - Spooky Self Care
October 31 | 2 PM | Council Bluffs Public Library - Bison Fest at Botna Bend
November 7 | 11 AM | Botna Bend Park
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. In use until 1969, the jail has since become the subject of countless ghost stories and local legends. 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. Tickets are available both on-site and online—if you dare!
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!
Experience Rural Iowa
From farmers markets and historic farmsteads to orchards, festivals, and farm-to-table dining, agritourism is at the heart of Pottawattamie County’s identity. Each stop offers a chance to connect with local growers, makers, and traditions that define the region.
Agritourism in Pottawattamie County
Keep the Fall Fun Going!
Fall in Council Bluffs is full of seasonal charm, from outdoor adventures to festive community events. Grab your favorite pumpkin spice treat, soak in the autumn atmosphere, and make the most of the season. Extend your visit with a cozy stay at a Council Bluffs hotel for the perfect fall getaway.
