Coming into town for the first time in a while? Council Bluffs has seen quite a few new restaurants and attractions pop up in the last two years. From scrumptious new restaurants with modern and trendy styles to new indoor and outdoor attractions, here are some must-see spots:
This summer saw the open of Caddy’s Kitchen & Cocktails, offering American cuisine, cocktails, and craft beers. The restaurant’s modern finishes and bright sign catch the eyes of passersby on the street, and its unique offerings—ever had your lunch served skewered over a Bloody Mary? —will have you going back for more.
Lincoln’s Pub
Shortly after Caddy’s opened, the 100 Block saw the opening of a second new restaurant: Lincoln’s Pub. The American gastropub describes itself as “casual yet sophisticated,” clearly seen in their on-trend but still classic furnishings and design choices. Their mural of President Lincoln on the side of the pub is a fine addition to the 100 Block scene.
Stay Sweet, Nicola's
Though established in 2014, Stay Sweet, Nicola's opened up shop in Council Bluffs just short of two years ago. The bakery and coffeehouse specializes in designer cakes, gluten-free, vegan, and wholesale goods. Along with specialty orders, the bakery offers pastries of the day, daily sweets, and a full coffee bar.
712 Eat + Drink
712 opened in early 2017, but since then, the restaurant has expanded its menu and added Sunday brunch. The contemporary American restaurant makes its meals from mostly scratch and uses locally grown ingredients as much as possible. 712 also offers craft beers, cocktails, and sodas, and a wine list.
Charles E. Lakin YMCA
Last December, the YMCA moved into a brand new $17.5 million facility. The 78,000 square foot building includes a wellness center, exercise classrooms, family swimming area, lap pool, gym, a therapy pool, a family center, and more. You’ll want to at least drive by to take in the impressive new facility.
The Hub
Curious what happened to the YMCA’s old building? The building has been converted into The Hub, Council Bluffs’ first trampoline park. The park is every child’s dream come true with dunk hoops, a jousting beam, dodgeball, and more. The Hub is also home to Elite Cheerleading, Jumping Monkeys Childcare, and a coffee shop where parents can relax while their kids burn off energy.
Dream Playground Re-Imagined Park
In late October of this year, the re-imagined Dream Playground at Lake Manawa State Park re-opened to the public after $1.3 million in renovations. The playground is now the largest ADA accessible playground in Iowa according to KMTV.
Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park Updates
Last fall saw the opening of the pavilion at Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park. The space includes a rooftop deck with stunning views of the Missouri River and the Omaha skyline, a rentable event space, a plaza, and a water play park.
Pirate Putt
Pirate Putt, an indoor miniature golf course, opened in September of last year. The attraction offers two courses—both 18-holes. The courses feature different challenges like warped walls, ramps, and an in-theme “cannon.” The course stays true to its name with the courses winding through a pirate ship, around treasure, and, of course, near pirates!
The Cryptic Room
The escape room will turn two-years-old this March, but if you haven’t checked it out yet, take your family or friends for a challenge. And if you have been? Well, there are four escape rooms to choose from. Try one you haven’t before! The Cryptic Room has been a great addition to downtown, encouraging critical thinking and teamwork in their challenges.
Iowa West Field House
The impressive sports facility opened in early 2017 with more than 100,000 square feet of space for volleyball and basketball courts. It also hosts futsal, pickleball, wrestling, gymnastics, and more. Get the family together for a game and come check it out!
