As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, there’s no better time to reflect on the people who shaped, defended, and served our communities. Across Pottawattamie County, local heroes are honored in meaningful and artistic ways, inviting visitors to connect national history with hometown pride.
Follow the Stars & Bronze Tribute Trail
The Stars & Bronze Tribute Trail offers a self-guided journey through each town in Pottawattamie County, encouraging you to get outdoors and honor those whose service helped preserve the freedoms we celebrate today.
Since 2007, communities throughout the county have raised funds to ensure every town features a unique Eagle of Honor (created by Russell Christensen). Visitors can explore the names and locations of all statues through the Eagle of Honor listing!
In Chautauqua Park in Oakland, the Pottawattamie Freedom Rock honors four local veterans. Painted in 2017 by artist Ray “Bubba” Sorensen, the rock is part of Iowa’s statewide Freedom Rock Tour, which placed a unique commemorative artwork in each of the state’s 99 counties to honor veterans.
Bayliss Park’s Veterans Plaza features names of service members from all branches of the military who made the ultimate sacrifice. Sculpted by renowned artist John Lajba, the plaza stands as a powerful tribute to courage across generations.
The First Responder Public Safety Plaza honors those who serve on the front lines at home. Lifesize bronze statues represent members of the fire, sherrif's and police department, highway patrol, and 911 call center. Another stop is the Deputy Mark Burbridge Memorial, located outside the Historic Squirrel Cage Jail. The striking blue horse honors Deputy Burbridge, who was killed in the line of duty in 2017 during an attempted jail escape. Covered in imagery important to him—including motorcycles and a sheriff’s badge, the memorial serves as a deeply personal tribute to service and sacrifice.
All Aboard for Railroad Days
This year’s Celebrate CB festivities (May 3–9) are packed with excitement, highlighted by Railroad Days, a special tribute to National Train Day on May 10. Throughout the week, visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of train-themed activities that celebrate Council Bluffs’ historic role in the nation’s railroad legacy. From hands-on interactive exhibits and historic locomotive rides to scenic trolley tours and educational demonstrations, there’s something to delight guests of all ages.
Families can enjoy engaging activities designed for kids, while rail enthusiasts can marvel at historic engines and learn about the city’s pivotal connection to America’s rail network. The week of festivities builds up to the Celebrate CB Parade on May 9, a lively celebration featuring marching bands, floats, and plenty of hometown spirit.
Visitors attending Railroad Days will also be among the first to experience an exciting new addition at the Union Pacific Railroad Museum. Phase one of the museum’s Grand Atrium Project launches with the redesigned Nation Before the Railroad exhibit, introducing custom-designed illuminated animations and rarely displayed artifacts from the Union Pacific Historic Collection. The new exhibit invites guests to explore how the railroad shaped the people and decisions behind America’s expansion. The first phase opens to the public during Railroad Days on May 9, marking an exciting step in the museum’s ongoing efforts to bring history to life in new and engaging ways.
The Wall That Heals: A Powerful Memorial Day Tribute
Coming Memorial Day weekend 2026, Pottawattamie County will host The Wall That Heals, a moving traveling memorial honoring those who served during the Vietnam War. Displayed at Lewis Central High School from May 22–25, the three-quarter scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial offers a deeply personal space for reflection, featuring engraved names, opportunities for name rubbings, and a mobile Education Center sharing stories, artifacts, and local connections. Open 24 hours a day and free to the public, this powerful tribute invites visitors to pause, remember, and honor the sacrifices that have shaped our nation—an especially meaningful experience as America commemorates 250 years of history. For more information about The Wall That Heals, visit our blog here.
Celebrate Freedom in the Sky
Summer in the Council Bluffs area brings unforgettable ways to celebrate America’s spirit of freedom—from dazzling fireworks to soaring aerial performances.
Each Fourth of July, the Lake Manawa Fireworks lights up the sky with a spectacular display. Held near Lake Manawa, this tradition brings people together for a patriotic night filled with hometown pride!
Later in the summer, the Defenders of Freedom Air & Space Show returns to Offutt Air Force Base on August 8–9 as part of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations. After several years away due to flooding, the pandemic, and runway reconstruction, the free event once again invites the public to experience thrilling aerial demonstrations and a powerful tribute to the people who defend our freedoms.
Discover the Stories That Shaped Council Bluffs
As United States celebrates America’s 250th anniversary, visitors exploring Pottawattamie County can dive into the rich history of Council Bluffs through its museums, landmarks, and scenic sites. Tour the elegant Historic General Dodge House or explore the one-of-a-kind Historic Squirrel Cage Jail to discover stories of the people and innovations that helped shape the nation.
For sweeping views and a connection to early exploration, visit the Lewis & Clark Monument Scenic Overlook. Dedicated in 1936 to commemorate the 1804 expedition and the explorers’ meeting with the Otoe and Missouri tribes, the Loess Hills overlook features views of the Missouri River, Council Bluffs, and the Omaha skyline, plus a popular mountain bike trail and seasonal picnic areas.
After a day of exploring, continue your visit with a walk across the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge or dining along the Historic 100 Block of West Broadway and a stay at a Council Bluffs hotel—and discover even more of what makes Council Bluffs a meaningful place to explore, remember, and celebrate.
