Graduation season is a time to celebrate big achievements, meaningful milestones, and the people who helped make them possible. Whether you’re honoring a high school graduate, college senior, or trade program completion, choosing the right venue sets the tone for a memorable reception. Fortunately, Council Bluffs and Pottawattamie County offer a variety of local venues perfect for graduation celebrations of every size and style.
From elegant event spaces and banquet halls to casual gathering spots and unique local venues, this guide highlights standout locations that make hosting a graduation reception easy and unforgettable. No matter your vision, there’s a space here ready to help you celebrate success close to home.
Barley’s
Barley’s offers multiple private and semi-private spaces ideal for graduation receptions, with options ranging from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations. Exposed brick, dedicated service staff, and available audiovisual equipment make it easy to host a polished, comfortable event.
Bent Tree Golf Club
The clubhouse at Bent Tree Golf Club provides a welcoming setting for graduation receptions, accommodating 100–125 guests. Tables and chairs are included, offering a convenient and flexible space to celebrate your graduate.
Boxer BBQ Banquet Hall & Event Space
Boxer BBQ’s second-floor banquet space features exposed brick, original wood floors, and natural light from large windows. With room for 20–120 guests, it’s a warm and inviting option for graduation celebrations of all sizes.
Caddy’s Brunch Bar
Caddy’s offers a bright, spacious setting for graduation receptions, with a private dining room seating up to 80 guests and the ability to accommodate larger gatherings throughout the venue.
Council Bluffs Country Club
The Council Bluffs Country Club features elegant reception spaces well suited for graduation celebrations, with flexible room options accommodating anywhere from 10 to 250 guests.
Dodge Riverside Golf Club
Dodge Riverside Golf Club offers private reception spaces with scenic views, in-house catering, and audiovisual equipment. Flexible layouts accommodate graduation receptions for 80–200 guests.
Grand Venue
The Grand Venue offers a modern, open space ideal for large graduation receptions, with seating for up to 300 guests and a smaller space available for more intimate celebrations.
Palace Event Center
Palace Event Center offers a beautifully renovated barn-style venue with scenic country views, ideal for graduation receptions both large and small. With flexible indoor and outdoor spaces, built-in audiovisual equipment, and ample room for guests, it provides an elegant setting for celebrating a major milestone.
Pizza King
Pizza King offers flexible banquet spaces for graduation receptions, accommodating 40–110 guests. Built-in media capabilities and convenient access make hosting simple and stress-free.
The Acres
The Acres features a newly renovated, customizable event space set on expansive grounds, making it a versatile option for graduation receptions of all sizes.
The Backyard Event Room – The Olive Branch
The Backyard Event Room provides a unique and welcoming setting for graduation receptions, offering a creative space ideal for celebrating this important milestone.
The Gathering Room at Bowlero
The Gathering Room at Bowlero offers a modern, flexible space for graduation receptions, accommodating up to 140 guests with the ability to adjust the layout for smaller gatherings.
The Grass Wagon
The Grass Wagon offers 8,000 square feet of open, flexible space ideal for graduation receptions of all sizes. With room to customize the layout and helpful recommendations for event services, it’s a great option for hosting a seamless and memorable celebration.
The Greenhouse Event Space
Located in Underwood, The Greenhouse is a unique, intimate venue perfect for smaller graduation receptions. This thoughtfully transformed space accommodates up to 49 guests and includes tables, chairs, kitchen access, and an outdoor patio, making it ideal for relaxed, close-knit celebrations.
The Spillway Grill
The Spillway Grill offers a private party room well suited for graduation receptions, with seating for up to 80 guests and space for larger gatherings if needed. The room includes its own restrooms and provides a comfortable setting for celebrating with family and friends.
The Warehouse Event Venue
The Warehouse Event Venue features a stylish, versatile layout that works well for graduation receptions of varying sizes. From its spacious main hall to smaller gathering areas, the venue allows for a customized setup to fit your celebration.
Tish’s Restaurant
Tish’s Restaurant offers a banquet room that comfortably accommodates up to 70 guests with flexible seating arrangements. A banquet menu is available, making it a convenient and welcoming option for graduation receptions.
UMBA Hall
UMBA Hall in Underwood offers a versatile and spacious venue for graduation receptions, with multiple room options to accommodate gatherings of various sizes. From large celebrations to smaller, more intimate receptions, flexible layouts and available amenities make it easy to tailor the space to your needs.
Plan a Celebration Worth Remembering
With so many versatile and welcoming venues across Council Bluffs and Pottawattamie County, planning a graduation reception has never been easier. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a large celebration, local venues offer flexible spaces, convenient amenities, and a sense of community that makes every milestone feel even more special.
As you plan your event, consider pairing your reception with local dining, nearby lodging, and attractions to create a full experience for guests traveling in from near and far. For more ideas on places to gather, celebrate, and explore, continue discovering what makes our area special at UnleashCB.com—and cheers to the graduates and their next chapter.
