Downtown Council Bluffs
A true introduction to Council Bluffs begins in its historic downtown area. This district has held strong to its roots, maintaining iconic buildings constructed in the late 1800s that now house restaurants, shops, museums, and vibrant community events. Top stops include the Western Historic Trails Center for some pioneer and Native American history lessons, the Bayliss Park Fountain for a picturesque photo op, and Walker’s Bluff Plaza for live music and festivals throughout the year. You’ll definitely want to refuel and indulge in downtown Council Bluffs’ dining scene while you’re here. Stop in at Bev’s on the Pedway for award-winning burgers or grab a table at Barley’s for an amazing craft beer selection to wash down their specialty flatbreads. However you attack downtown Council Bluffs, Party Bus Council Bluffs can shuttle you right to the heart of it all so you can leave the parking woes behind.
Lake Manawa
Venture just a few miles from Council Bluffs’ core and you’ll stumble upon the sparkling shores of Lake Manawa. This natural paradise is the picture of tranquility, boasting 700 acres of water surface where you can boat, fish, or laze on the beaches. Prefer to stay on dry land? Hike or bike along the paved trails encircling the lake where you’ll spot native wildlife among the cottonwood forests. Warm summer days in Council Bluffs bring Lake Manawa to life. Set up shop at the free swimming beach, splash around the waterpark, or let the little ones burn energy at the playground. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, refuel with some family BBQ at Paco’s on the patio. When it’s time to call it a day, your Party Bus crew can pick you up without any lake traffic to endure.
Bayliss Park
Only blocks away from downtown’s bustle, you’ll find a breath of fresh air in the expansive green spaces of Bayliss Park. Set along the Missouri River, this public park spans nearly 60 acres showcasing everything from scenic trails to bustling sports complexes to natural wetlands perfect for bird watching. Bring the whole crew and let them each pursue their favorite outdoor hobbies. Big groups and busy calendars agree – Bayliss Park hits the spot. Its River’s Edge Pavilion hosts concerts and events year-round, while the River’s Edge Brewing Company is your go-to for a crisp patio brew overlooking the waterfront. The best part? You can roll up with your entire entourage via Party Bus and have zero parking problems.
The Mall of the Bluffs
When it’s time for a shopping spree, the one-stop destination is Omaha’s Mall of the Bluffs. Anchored by big names like JCPenney, Scheels, and At Home, you’ll find an impressive 130+ specialty stores housed in this open-air shopping mecca. But the fun doesn’t stop at retail therapy – the mall also features an indoor go-kart track, mirror maze, climbing walls, ropes course, and more. Mall of the Bluffs really does offer something for everyone in your group. The kids can burn energy at Gravity Games while the adults refuel with brews at Final Score Sports Bar. No designated team needed though – your Party Bus rental has got your transportation covered from the parking lot to the mall’s entrance so your whole crew can stay together with ease.
Olde Town
Get a real slice of small-town Americana vibes in Council Bluffs’ historic Olde Towne district. This charming area showcases classic Iowa architecture from the early 20th century with locally-owned antique stores, cafes, and family businesses lining the streets. Independent boutiques offer unique gifts and home goods while trendy new eateries blend seamlessly with longstanding favorites like Greenfields Food & Spirit. Olde Towne’s true gem resides in the stunning Carnegie Free Public Library – a regal relic completed in 1903 that’s sure to have the history buffs in your group geeking out. See the library’s intricate tile and woodwork up close, or simply snap a few pics of the grand exterior. Whether your group is shopping, dining, or keeping it quaint, Olde Towne serves up quintessential Council Bluffs character around every corner.
West End
For a little taste of everything Council Bluffs offers, make West End your one-stop district for the day. This trendy area brings together a melting pot of local eateries, funky retailers, and attractions that epitomize this city’s unique personality. Find the perfect gift or home accent at Barn Anew, or unleash your creativity at DIY workshops hosted by Board & Brush Creative Studio. West End’s true highlights, however, might just be its unbeatable restaurants. Indulge in upscale New American cuisine at Au Courant, transport your tastebuds to Thailand at Taste of Thai, or swap foodie stories over plates from Pane Italiano. The only way to squeeze in all these flavors in one day is with your own Party Bus shuttle working around your culinary cravings.
Playor Club and Resort
Escape the city scene while never leaving Council Bluffs with a day at the Playor Club and Resort. This sprawling 50-acre destination offers golf enthusiasts two 18-hole championship courses designed by Don Sechrest and Jim Bork sure to challenge any skill level. Not the fairway type? Spend your day by the resort’s outdoor and indoor pools, unwind in the spa, or just kick back with a cocktail on the lush green grounds. For large groups or celebrations, the Playor Club has you covered. Their indoor event venues house anything from weddings to conferences to private parties, while the Club is a guaranteed hit for bachelor/ette outings, corporate retreats, or fundraisers. Let Party Bus shuttle everyone to and from the Club’s gates so you can revel in the resort amenities to the fullest.
WestEnd Village
Take a different path through Council Bluffs’ trendier side with a day spent wandering the WestEnd Village. This district stretches along Valley View Drive boasting fashion boutiques like Candy Bouquet and Bella 925 along with home decor havens like McLoone’s and Serendipity Garden. Grab a caffeinated pick-me-up at Crane Coffee to fuel your shopping adventures. Those looking for a cultural experience will want to hop off at the district’s Union Playhouse, an artistic theatre hosting live productions year-round. Nearby you’ll also find dance and yoga studios, giving everyone in your group a place to get their creative juices flowing. Cap off your day of retail and artistry with farm-to-table fare at Barn Anew Cafe, which puts locally-sourced Midwestern ingredients into every plate.
Book a Bus With Us
You’ve got the neighborhoods all mapped out – now comes the fun part of exploring them! But dragging your entire crew from district to district isn’t anyone’s idea of a good time. Let Party Bus Council Bluffs handle the driving so you can fully immerse yourself in each neighborhood without transportation stress. We’ll get you around town in a sleek, compact minibus or party bus perfect for your group size. Rely on a professional team which knows Council Bluffs like the back of their hand to shuttle you between all the must-see destinations in total comfort. Our buses come equipped with climate control and premium amenities so you can kick back, connect to WiFi, and soak in those local neighborhood vibes. Ready to experience the real Council Bluffs? Give us a call at 712-318-5524 – your personal team awaits!