Squirrel Cage Jail: A Revolving Relic of the Old West
Explore the eerie history of a unique 1885 rotary jail. The Squirrel Cage Jail in Council Bluffs: Where incarceration took a spin.
The Squirrel Cage Jail in Council Bluffs, Iowa, is a unique three-story rotary jail built in 1885. One of only a few remaining rotary jails in the U.S., its rotating cell design aimed to maximize security with minimal jailer contact. Today, it stands as a museum offering a glimpse into a peculiar chapter of penal history.
A brief summary to Squirrel Cage Jail
- 226 Pearl St, Council Bluffs, Iowa, 51503, US
- +1712-323-2509
- Visit website
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 11 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
- Sunday 1 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Check the operating hours before visiting, as they vary depending on the season.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking and standing during the tour.
- Consider visiting during a special event, such as a Halloween tour or paranormal investigation, for a unique experience.
- Take your time to read the inmate graffiti on the cell walls for a chilling glimpse into the jail's past.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are near downtown Council Bluffs, you can walk to Squirrel Cage Jail. Head west on West Broadway St. for about 1 mile until you reach Pearl St. Turn left on Pearl St. and walk for another 0.3 miles. The jail will be on your right at 226 Pearl St. The walk will take approximately 20-25 minutes. There is no cost for walking.
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Public Transport
From the Dutch Heritage Area, find the nearest bus stop and take bus route 2 towards Council Bluffs. Transfer at the Council Bluffs Transit Center and catch bus route 9 towards 1st Ave. Get off at the stop closest to 226 Pearl St. The Squirrel Cage Jail is a short walk from the bus stop. The total fare for the bus is approximately $1.00.
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Car
If driving from nearby cities, take I-80 W towards Omaha and merge onto I-29 N towards Council Bluffs. Take exit 53B for 24th Ave/N Broadway and continue on Broadway Ave. for about 1 mile. Turn right onto Pearl St. The Squirrel Cage Jail will be on your left at 226 Pearl St, Council Bluffs, IA 51503. Street parking is available nearby. Parking is free.
Discover more about Squirrel Cage Jail
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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