Hotels in Council Bluffs

Blooming Wonders: A Journey Through Council Bluffs' Artistic Heart

Nestled along the Missouri River, Council Bluffs, Iowa, offers a charming blend of natural beauty and cultural treasures. Explore the lush landscapes at the beautiful Lauritzen Gardens, where vibrant flowers bloom year-round, or delve into history at the Union Pacific Railroad Museum. The city's scenic views provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures, including hiking and cycling along the riverfront trails. With its welcoming atmosphere, diverse dining options, and proximity to Omaha’s attractions, Council Bluffs is an inviting destination for travelers seeking a unique blend of relaxation and exploration. For the best hotel rates in Council Bluffs, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Council Bluffs

Some of the best places to stay in Council Bluffs are Downtown Omaha, West Omaha and Old Market. Council Bluffs, Iowa, is conveniently close to vibrant attractions in nearby Omaha. Downtown Omaha offers a lively atmosphere with restaurants and shops, while West Omaha features family-friendly activities. The Old Market district is known for its historic charm, galleries, and nightlife. Hotel accommodations in these areas range from budget-friendly options to mid-range suites, making it easy for travelers to find suitable places to stay. For first-time visitors, the Old Market is the best choice for its unique ambiance and accessibility. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Council Bluffs:

1. Downtown OmahaOpens in a new window: This vibrant area is perfect for families and those seeking entertainment and culture, featuring attractions like CHI Health Center Omaha and Creighton University. It's an excellent base for exploring local history and sports. For your stay, consider Magnolia Hotel OmahaOpens in a new window, a luxurious 4.5-star hotel that caters to families and pets, offering amenities like free cribs and pet-friendly services. Another option is Hotel DecoOpens in a new window, also a 4.5-star boutique hotel housed in a historic building, featuring unique decor and business facilities. For business travelers, The Farnam, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window provides essential amenities including meeting rooms and a 24-hour business center.
2. West OmahaOpens in a new window: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, West Omaha boasts shopping centers like Village Pointe and Westroads Mall, making it ideal for entertainment and leisure. Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Omaha NEOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star option that welcomes pets and features business amenities. Alternatively, Home2 Suites by Hilton Omaha West, NEOpens in a new window offers a 3.0-star experience with meeting spaces and pet-friendly policies, ensuring a comfortable stay.
3. Old MarketOpens in a new window: This historic district is rich in culture and entertainment, featuring attractions like CHI Health Center Omaha and Charles Schwab Field. For a unique experience, Harrahs Council Bluffs Hotel & CasinoOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel with an on-site casino, while Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Council Bluffs I-29, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window provides essential business amenities for those traveling for work. For a mix of business and leisure, Ameristar Casino Hotel Council BluffsOpens in a new window offers a 4.0-star stay with casino access and city center convenience.

What to do in Council Bluffs

Three days in Council Bluffs offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and vibrant activities. Visitors can explore lush parks, enjoy serene lakes, and experience thrilling nightlife with live music and gaming. The area's rich cultural scene, combined with opportunities for shopping and outdoor adventures, makes it a worthwhile getaway. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Council Bluffs:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at The Durham Museum, where you can explore the rich history of the Omaha-Council Bluffs area through engaging exhibits and displays. After immersing yourself in the past, take a leisurely walk across the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, which offers stunning views of the Missouri River and the city skyline. Conclude your day at the Hot Shops Art Center, where you can appreciate a diverse array of artwork and perhaps even catch an artist at work in their studio.
• Day 2: Start your morning at Lauritzen Gardens, a beautiful botanical garden that boasts a stunning array of plants and flowers—perfect for a peaceful stroll. Next, head over to The Apollon, a delightful local eatery known for its delicious cuisine and inviting atmosphere. After lunch, immerse yourself in contemporary art at the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, where you can explore innovative exhibitions and installations from both emerging and established artists.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at the Joslyn Art Museum, where you can wander through its impressive collection of American art, including works by famous artists. Following your visit, venture to Fontenelle Forest Nature Center for a refreshing hike along its scenic trails, surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife. Finally, take a trip to the Mormon Trail Center at Historic Winter Quarters, where you can delve into the history of the Mormon pioneers and their journey across America, adding a rich cultural experience to your trip.

5 tips to find a great Council Bluffs hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those looking to visit Council Bluffs on a budget, the most affordable months are January, November, and December when hotel rates drop significantly. International travelers should aim to book their flights at least four months in advance to secure the best deals. To fully experience the city's main attractions, which include beautiful parks and engaging museums, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended, ensuring great value for money while exploring all that this charming destination has to offer.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Council Bluffs, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com. You could find great rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To stay informed about potential savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com for flash sales and exclusive promotions. This way, you're more likely to snag a fantastic hotel deal and enjoy your visit without overspending.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and the season. Consequently, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Council Bluffs.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to the city center and local attractions in Council Bluffs usually tends to be more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars, buses, or taxis to explore the area while potentially saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Council Bluffs. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in Council Bluffs

Here are some famous dishes in Council Bluffs, Iowa, United States of America:

• BBQ Ribs: Slow-cooked and smoked to perfection, these tender ribs are slathered in a tangy, sweet barbecue sauce that brings out the rich flavors of the meat. Often enjoyed during family gatherings or summer cookouts, they embody the spirit of communal dining.
• Steak with Garlic Butter: A juicy, perfectly grilled steak topped with a dollop of garlic herb butter, showcasing the region's quality beef. Served alongside seasonal vegetables or a baked potato, it represents the heartiness of Midwestern cuisine, making it a staple in local steakhouses.
• BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich: This dish features succulent, shredded pork cooked low and slow, often served on a soft bun with coleslaw, offering a delightful blend of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors that highlight the area’s barbecue culture.

Best time to go to Council Bluffs

Council Bluffs experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 23.7°F (-4.6°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 76.1°F (24.5°C). June is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Council Bluffs, May to July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by dry rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.