Fall in Council Bluffs is the perfect time to enjoy crisp air, seasonal fun, and quality time with friends and family. From cozy coffee shops and scenic strolls to pumpkin patches, orchards, and thrilling haunted attractions, the city offers endless ways to celebrate the season. To help you plan your visit, we’ve created an itinerary for spending a full day in Council Bluffs. Consider staying in a local hotel and get ready for a memorable fall getaway. Here are some of the ways you can enjoy your day in our vibrant city.
Morning:
Start your morning with a cup from J's Coffee & Donuts and then roam around the Historic 100 Block or take a 10-minute stroll to Bayliss Park to enjoy the scenic fall views and crisp air. Whether you’re sipping your coffee while taking in the colorful leaves or people-watching in the heart of downtown, it’s a perfect way to kick off your day. Want to discover more cozy coffee spots in Council Bluffs? Check out our coffee blog for even more local favorites!
Midday:
A perfect way to embrace the season is to spend some time outdoors picking your own apples or pumpkins. Spend a couple of hours wandering the orchards, filling your basket, and snapping some perfect fall photos along the way. Council Bluffs offers several great pumpkin patches and orchards to enjoy this classic fall activity:
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Welch’s Pumpkin Patch – This small, family-owned patch has a cozy “Ma and Pa” feel and opens each October for the Halloween season. There’s no admission fee, so you can wander the pumpkin fields freely while the kids run around and enjoy activities designed just for younger children. Welch’s offers a wide variety of pumpkins to take home, making it a fun and relaxed stop for the whole family.
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Ditmars Orchard & Vineyard – Step into the heart of the orchard and explore rows of apple trees, pumpkin patches, and beautiful orchard views. Kids can have a blast playing on the playground or bouncing around in bumper balls while parents stroll through the trees or enjoy a glass of locally made wine. What began as a family project in 1994 has grown into one of the largest orchards in Iowa, with apples, pumpkins, strawberries, peaches, apricots, and cherries. Throughout the growing season, the orchard hosts fun events for all ages, making it a perfect place to enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of fall in Iowa.
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Pioneer Trail Pumpkin Patch – Looking for a fun place to pick fresh apples and pumpkins? Pioneer Trail Orchard is the perfect spot! Kids and adults alike can explore the orchard while picking classic apple varieties like Red Delicious, Jonathan, Macintosh, and Fuji. The orchard also offers plenty of pumpkins, fun activities, and seasonal charm for all ages, making it a great place to enjoy the sights, smells, and flavors of fall in Council Bluffs.
Afternoon:
After a morning of coffee and a midday full of pumpkins and apples, spend the afternoon exploring some of Council Bluffs’ scenic spots, outdoor fall activities and adventures. Take a stroll or bike ride along the trails, like the Wabash Trace Nature Trail, Fairmount Park Trails, or Vincent Bluff State Preserve Trail, and enjoy the crisp fall air while spotting wildlife and colorful leaves.
If you’re looking for a little history mixed with adventure, visit the Union Pacific Railroad Museum to learn about trains and the American West. Step back in time at the Historic General Dodge House, a beautifully preserved Victorian home, or uncover the eerie past of the Squirrel Cage Jail, one of the most unique and haunted jails in the country. No matter what you choose, an afternoon in Council Bluffs offers the perfect mix of movement, learning, and discovery.
Evening:
By now, you’ve probably worked up an appetite! Head to the historic 100 Block and enjoy a bite al fresco, with fall colors providing the perfect backdrop. Grab a quick and tasty meal from Barley’s, Napoli’s, or Glory Days and take in the crisp autumn air from one of the charming patios. Looking for a different patio experience? Try 712 Eat & Drink or The Porch, where seasonal flavors and cozy vibes await. Either way, it’s a great way to relax, refuel, and soak in a beautiful autumn afternoon in Council Bluffs. View all of our dining options here.
For those who love tasting local flavors, Full Fledged Brewing Co.—the first brewery in Council Bluffs—offers crisp, refreshing craft beers brewed right on-site. Whether you’re sampling a favorite brew, trying something new, or simply enjoying the welcoming atmosphere with friends, it’s a perfect way to toast the season and celebrate the local flavors of Council Bluffs.
Dusk:
As dusk falls, brace yourself for thrills at Madness Haunted House. In business since 2012, Madness delivers an unforgettable experience filled with horror, suspense, and excitement—though parental discretion is advised. With over 80 dedicated volunteers, including 60 scare artists on any given night, this isn’t just a haunted walk-through; it’s a fully immersive 45-minute adventure through a living nightmare. If you’re ready for scares, surprises, and adrenaline, Madness Haunted House is the perfect way to end your autumn day in Council Bluffs.
From a morning coffee stroll to pumpkin picking, al fresco dining, and a thrilling haunted adventure, a fall day in Council Bluffs is full of seasonal fun and unforgettable experiences. Capture the colors of the season, savor local flavors, or test your courage at Madness Haunted House—there’s truly something for everyone. After a day of exploring, unwind with a relaxing stay in a Council Bluffs hotel. Use our book direct tool to browse and reserve your room, and make your autumn getaway one to remember! Be sure to check out our Festive Fall Events and Attractions in Pottawattamie County to keep the seasonal fun going!
