Journey Through Time at the Union Pacific Railroad Museum
Explore the legacy of railroads at the Union Pacific Railroad Museum, where history and innovation come alive in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
Discover the rich history of railroads at the Union Pacific Railroad Museum in Council Bluffs, Iowa. This captivating museum showcases the evolution of rail travel and its impact on American society, making it a must-visit for history and train enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Union Pacific Railroad Museum
- 200 Pearl St, Council Bluffs, Iowa, 51503, US
- +1712-329-8307
- Visit website
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the week to avoid crowds, as weekends can get busy.
- Check the museum's website for special events or temporary exhibitions.
- Plan at least two hours for your visit to fully enjoy all exhibits.
- Don't miss the outdoor area with historical train cars for a unique photo opportunity.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, the Union Pacific Railroad Museum is located at 200 Pearl St, Council Bluffs, IA 51503. From Central Nebraska, take I-80 East towards Omaha. After approximately 90 miles, take exit 1A for I-29 North towards Council Bluffs. Continue on I-29 for about 4 miles and take exit 53B for 16th Ave. Turn right onto 16th Ave and then left onto Pearl St. The museum will be on your right. Parking is available nearby, but check for any parking fees.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, you can take a Greyhound bus from various locations in Central Nebraska to Omaha, NE. Once in Omaha, transfer to the Metro Transit bus service. Take the bus route to Council Bluffs, which takes about 20-30 minutes. Be sure to check the latest schedules on the Metro Transit website. The closest bus stop to the museum is at 16th Ave and Pearl St. From there, it's just a short walk to the museum.
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Taxi or Rideshare
If you prefer a quicker option, you can use taxi services or rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft from your location in Central Nebraska to reach the Union Pacific Railroad Museum. Just input the destination as 200 Pearl St, Council Bluffs, IA 51503. The fare will vary depending on your starting location, so check the app for an estimate.
Discover more about Union Pacific Railroad Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historical Society
0.1 km
Explore the rich heritage of Council Bluffs at the Historical Society, where history comes alive through captivating exhibits and community engagement.
The Cryptic Room
0.2 km
Explore, unlock, and escape at The Cryptic Room, an exciting escape room center in Council Bluffs, Iowa, offering thrilling adventures for all ages.
The Bregant Home
0.3 km
Discover the historical charm of The Bregant Home in Council Bluffs, Iowa, where architectural beauty meets rich heritage.
Lookout Point
0.7 km
Explore Lookout Point in Council Bluffs, Iowa – a serene park with breathtaking views, perfect for picnics, walks, and nature photography.
Kanesville Memorial
1.1 km
Explore the rich history of the Mormon pioneers at Kanesville Memorial, a serene landmark in Council Bluffs, Iowa, celebrating their enduring legacy.
Lincolns Visit to Council Bluffs Historical Marker
1.1 km
Explore the historical significance of Lincoln's visit to Council Bluffs, Iowa, and experience a pivotal moment in American history at this charming marker.
First Building In Council Bluffs Memorial Rock
1.2 km
Explore the First Building in Council Bluffs Memorial Rock, a vital historical landmark reflecting the rich heritage of Iowa's first settlers.
Kinsman Monument
1.6 km
Explore the Kinsman Monument in Council Bluffs, IA, a historic site honoring Civil War soldiers with rich heritage and compelling stories.
Sternhill Park
1.6 km
Discover the natural beauty of Sternhill Park in Council Bluffs, Iowa - a perfect blend of tranquility and community spirit.
Golden Spike - Eastern Terminus of the Transcontinental Railroad
2.0 km
Explore the Golden Spike in Council Bluffs, Iowa, a historic landmark that celebrates the eastern terminus of the Transcontinental Railroad.
Council Bluffs Convention & Visitors Bureau
2.1 km
Explore Council Bluffs with the Convention & Visitors Bureau—your ultimate guide to local attractions, dining, and events in this vibrant Iowa city.
Historic Train Bridge
3.9 km
Explore the Historic Train Bridge in Council Bluffs, a stunning landmark representing the rich railway heritage and scenic beauty of Iowa.
Lewis & Clark Interpretive Trail Exhibit
5.8 km
Explore the journey of Lewis and Clark at the Interpretive Trail Exhibit in Omaha, a captivating historical landmark set in beautiful Freedom Park.
The Arch
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Explore The Arch in Omaha, a historical landmark that captures the essence of the city’s heritage and offers a glimpse into its vibrant past.
Hot Shops Art Center
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Unmissable attractions to see
Squirrel Cage Jail
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Discover the fascinating history of the Squirrel Cage Jail, a unique rotary jail that offers an intriguing glimpse into Iowa's past.
Bayliss Park
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Explore the natural beauty and community spirit of Bayliss Park in Council Bluffs, Iowa, a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation.
Dodge House-Historic General
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Discover the Historic Dodge House, where the past meets the present in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Explore history, architecture, and captivating stories.
Council Bluffs Gateway
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Explore the Council Bluffs Gateway and uncover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Iowa, your perfect starting point for adventure.
Black Angel Statue
1.1 km
Explore the Black Angel Statue in Council Bluffs, Iowa—a historical site steeped in mystery, artistry, and local legends that captivate every visitor.
Lincoln Monument
1.1 km
Explore the Lincoln Monument in Council Bluffs, Iowa, a historic tribute featuring stunning views and rich stories of President Abraham Lincoln.
Rails West Railroad Museum
1.2 km
Discover the rich history of railroads at Rails West Railroad Museum, where trains come alive through fascinating exhibits and vintage locomotives.
Golden Spike Monument
2.0 km
Explore the Golden Spike Monument, a landmark celebrating the First Transcontinental Railroad's completion and a breathtaking park in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
Vincent Bluff State Preserve
2.3 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and diverse wildlife of Vincent Bluff State Preserve, a nature lover's paradise in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
Big Lake Park
3.2 km
Explore Big Lake Park in Council Bluffs, Iowa – a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreation, and family-friendly fun awaits you.
Narrows River Park
3.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Narrows River Park in Council Bluffs, Iowa, a perfect retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Freedom Park
4.7 km
Explore Freedom Park in Omaha, a peaceful retreat featuring lush landscapes, insightful museums, and breathtaking views of the Missouri River.
Lewis and Clark Park
5.1 km
Experience the rich history and natural beauty of Lewis and Clark Park, a tranquil escape in Council Bluffs, Iowa, perfect for outdoor adventures.
Lewis and Clark Park & Monument
5.1 km
Explore Lewis and Clark Park & Monument, a historical haven blending stunning scenery with fascinating tales of American exploration.
Western Historic Trails Center
5.3 km
Discover the legacy of westward expansion and immerse yourself in the vibrant history at the Western Historic Trails Center in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
Essential places to dine
Main Street Cafe
0.2 km
Savor delicious American breakfasts at Main Street Cafe in Council Bluffs - where flavor meets warmth in every dish.
Boxer Barbeque
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Discover the mouthwatering taste of authentic barbecue at Boxer Barbeque in Council Bluffs - where every bite tells a story.
La Carreta Rosa
0.3 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at La Carreta Rosa in Council Bluffs - where every dish tells a story.
Buck Snort
0.4 km
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Primo's Modern Mexican -CB
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Primo's Modern Mexican in Council Bluffs - an unforgettable dining experience awaits!
Maloney's Live - Council Bluffs
0.7 km
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Barley's
0.8 km
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Caddy's Kitchen & Cocktails
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Experience delightful grilled dishes and refreshing cocktails at Caddy's Kitchen & Cocktails in Council Bluffs - where every meal is a celebration!
Railway Inn
0.9 km
Experience delectable grilled cuisine at Railway Inn – where every meal feels like home in Council Bluffs.
Kristen's Kitchen LLC
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Great Wall Express
1.2 km
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3rd Base Bar and Grill
1.3 km
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Goldmine Bar & Grill
1.3 km
Discover delicious grilled favorites at Goldmine Bar & Grill in Council Bluffs – where flavor meets fun!
LPL's Restaurant & Pub
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of LPL's Restaurant & Pub in Council Bluffs—where delicious grills meet friendly pub ambiance.
Southside Jonesy's Taco House
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Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Southside Jonesy's Taco House—where every bite is bursting with flavor in Council Bluffs.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Central Perch Vintage & Modern Market
0.2 km
Explore Central Perch Vintage & Modern Market for unique gifts and vintage finds in Council Bluffs, IA – a shopper's paradise!
Dorie's Crystals and Things
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Kanesville Kollectibles
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Jantiques
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Bambi's Green Acres Natural Market
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Community of Christ Thrift Store and Food Pantry
0.7 km
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Lidgett Music
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Dusted Charm
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Spirit holloween
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Cardboard Collectibles
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Bear Apparel
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Pheromone's Glass & Gifts/ CBD Dispensary
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Iowa International Market
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Limitless.Affordable.Cards
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Mercy Hospital Gift Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Quarthouse Bar
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Main Street Tavern
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4th Street Bar and Grill
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Maggie May's Rodeo Saloon
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The BLK Squirrel
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C'mon Inn
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T'z Sports Pub
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Experience the thrill of live sports at T'z Sports Pub, Council Bluffs' favorite destination for fans and food lovers alike.
Glory Days Sports Bar & Restaurant
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Caddy Shack Bar & Grill
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Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse menu at Caddy Shack Bar & Grill in Council Bluffs, where great food and drinks await.
Hard Luck Saloon
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Hard Luck Saloon in Council Bluffs, Iowa, where friendly service and great drinks await every visitor.
Kikker's Bar & Grill
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Kikker's Bar & Grill in Council Bluffs, where delicious food and drinks await every visitor.
Street Side Lounge
1.5 km
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Whistles Pub & Grub
2.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere, delicious grilled dishes, and friendly service at Whistles Pub & Grub in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
Driftwood Inn Inc.
2.9 km
Experience the lively ambiance and diverse drink selection at Driftwood Inn Inc. in Council Bluffs, your go-to bar for fun and relaxation.
Andrew's Lounge
3.0 km
Experience the warm ambiance and friendly service at Andrew's Lounge, the perfect bar in Council Bluffs for a relaxed night out.
