7 Fun Things to Do in Council Bluffs, Iowa, With Kids
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1. Park Day
Spend some time at Bayliss Park in downtown Council Bluffs, IA. Here, the kids can play in the splash pad, check out the fountain and take in the child-scaled art. Depending on the day, you might also enjoy the farmers market or a movie or concert in the park (especially during the summer when this kind of programming is more common). Afterward, head to Tish’s Restaurant for lunch.
“We really love Tish’s,” says Jordan Morse, early childhood coordinator for the Child and Family Resource Network and a mother of five. “They have really good American food, and they give a scoop of ice cream with their kids meals.”
2. Museum Marvels
Open Thursdays through Saturdays, Union Pacific Railroad Museum offers entertainment and education in one exciting package.
“It’s a fun experience, especially if you have kids who like trains or if you have a history buff,” Morse says. “I have a kid who loves history, so getting to learn about how the railroad was started is fun. Plus, they sometimes have traveling exhibits, so those change.”
Once you’ve had your fill of the exhibits, take a quick walk to neighboring Boxer Barbeque for lunch. Here, you’ll find traditionally smoked meats and comfort-style sides like fries and mac and cheese.
3. Fire Hydrant Party
During the summer months, the Council Bluffs Fire Department hosts hydrant parties, where they’ll open fire hydrants for kids to come and play in the water. Dates and days of the week vary, so be sure to check the department’s website or follow them on social media for accurate updates. Once the kiddos have splashed to their hearts’ content, grab some sweet snacks at Sugar Makery, Council Bluffs’ neighborhood sweet shop.
4. Head to the Library
When in doubt, go to the library. Besides instilling a love of reading, it’s also a great place for kids to explore and relax.
“We have a phenomenal library in Council Bluffs that provides a lot of entertainment,” Morse says. “They host movie nights, game nights, craft events and many of them are age specific.”
If everybody was extra good, stop by J’s Coffee & Donuts for a treat. J’s mini donuts will melt in your mouth.
5. Trampoline Park
When the kids are bouncing off the walls, head to The Hub, where they can safely bounce till they get tired. An indoor trampoline park, The Hub is perfect for year-round entertainment. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a bite at The Hub Patio. Their wide menu selection of salads, sandwiches and pizza will please even the pickiest of eaters.
6. Mini Golf
A tried and true classic, mini golf is always a fun time for kids of all ages. Pirate Putt Mini Golf is a themed indoor venue that has options to play nine or 18 holes, which is perfect for those with wandering attention spans.
“Pirate Putt is so fun,” Morse says. “And with the option to do nine holes or 18, it’s nice to only commit to nine if you have smaller ones.”
Refuel with a slice or two at the Pizza Counter — a Morse family favorite.
7. Hit the Trail
Meander on down to the Wabash Trace Nature Trail, a limestone trail that’s perfect for active families. Right off the trail, you’ll find Tastee Treet, a small ice cream parlor with insanely good shakes, ice cream and even burgers.
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