Council Bluffs, Iowa is a city located on the western side of the state along the Missouri River. It is home to more than 62,000 people and was ranked in 2019 as one of the fastest-growing small cities in America according to US News & World Report. Its population has grown by 11 percent since 2010.
The city had its beginnings as a trading post back when Lewis & Clark were exploring what would become the Louisiana Purchase area. In 1853 it became an incorporated City, with many notable buildings still standing today such as The Academy Building and The American Hotel. Council Bluffs also hosts several popular entertainment venues including Horseshoe Casino and Starlight Theater which offer up live music and gaming opportunities for locals and visitors alike.
It’s also home to several parks including Bayliss Park, which features open spaces perfect for picnics or walks, while Lake Manawa State Park offers camping sites and lake activities like fishing and swimming. A variety of museums are available too; the Union Pacific Railroad Museum provides fascinating insights into how railroads shaped this part of Midwest history while the Firefighter’s Historical Museum showcases vintage fire trucks from other eras. With all these attractions, Council Bluffs has something that appeals to everyone who calls it their home or chooses to visit.