This summer, we’re exploring Council Bluffs through firsthand adventures — one local gem at a time. Follow along as Emily Newby, an intern with the Council Bluffs CVB, shares authentic experiences from trails to treats, and everything in between.
Explore America’s rail story and local flavor in the heart of Council Bluffs.
Council Bluffs is steeped in railroad history, which makes it the perfect home for the Union Pacific Railroad Museum, one of the city’s signature attractions. Housed in a historic Carnegie Library built in 1903, the museum tells the story of how Council Bluffs earned its title as Mile Zero of the transcontinental railroad.
Before exploring the exhibits, I stopped for breakfast just a couple of blocks away at Legends Café. Located in the historic Kiel Hotel building, this cozy café exudes welcoming, hometown vibes. It was hard to choose from their stacked menu, but I went with the cinnamon roll French toast and a side of country potatoes—a warm, fluffy, delicious start to the day.
After breakfast, I walked to the museum and entered the ground level, where you’ll find a gift shop with fun train-themed merchandise. I headed upstairs to the first exhibit floor, which explores the creation of the transcontinental railroad and the roles of Abraham Lincoln and General Grenville Dodge in naming Council Bluffs as the eastern terminus. I loved seeing original lanterns, shotguns, maps, and even a replica of a Lincoln-era train car.
The next floor highlights the golden age of rail travel and Union Pacific's ongoing impact. There were stories about dining cars, Streamliners, and uniforms through the decades. One of my favorite parts was getting to “drive” a train at an interactive station—it really helped bring the experience to life.
The Union Pacific Railroad Museum is an unforgettable stop, whether you're a history buff or just curious about how railroads shaped the country—and Council Bluffs. I definitely want to come back in May for Railroad Days, a two-day celebration where guests ride trolleys to museums and venues all around town, each with unique activities and experiences. All aboard for one of CB’s most extraordinary events!
