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.
A hidden gem with prairie views, winding trails, and one seriously unforgettable chicken sandwich.
Vincent Bluff State Preserve is one of Council Bluffs’ true hidden gems. Tucked behind a quiet neighborhood on the southeast end of town, it surprises first-time visitors with its sudden shift from city streets to scenic prairie. You wind through a residential area—and then, there it is: a vast, peaceful natural landscape surrounded by the Loess Hills.
Before heading to the preserve, I grabbed 712 Eat + Drink takeout. I ordered That Chicken Sandwich—a crispy chicken breast topped with white cheddar, avocado aioli, sweet sriracha, bacon, and a crunchy cabbage slaw. I brought it with me to the picnic shelter and ate in the shade, and honestly, it was one of the best things I’ve ever had.
The shelter also featured infographics and posters with information about the plants and animals native to Iowa prairies—including some that can be spotted right in the park. Among the tall grasses, I saw lots of colorful wildflowers, a few monarch butterflies, and buzzing bees doing their thing.
I explored two trails during my visit. The first was a shady gravel and dirt path that winds into the surrounding woods—perfect for a break from the sun. The second was a narrow trail climbing one of the steep hills. It was a bit of a challenge, but the panoramic view at the top made it totally worth it. From up there, you can see the south side of Council Bluffs stretching toward the Missouri River.
What really stood out to me was the peaceful atmosphere. Vincent Bluff is a quiet retreat where native wildlife thrives. Even better? Goats were grazing along the steeper hillsides, helping to naturally maintain the prairie grasses. I’d absolutely come back to catch a sunset from the overlook—it’s the kind of view that stays with you.
