Top Five Popular Attractions Between Council Bluffs, Iowa and Okawville, Illinois

Are you ready to embark on an exciting road trip between Council Bluffs, Iowa and Okawville, Illinois? There are so many amazing attractions to see along the way, and I've narrowed down the top five that you won't want to miss!

The route from Council Bluffs, Iowa to Okawville, Illinois is filled with beautiful scenery and interesting attractions. As you make your way along this route, you'll pass through charming small towns, rolling countryside, and historic sites. The halfway point of your trip is Concordia, MO, a quaint little town with a rich history and plenty of small town charm. This is the perfect place to take a break, stretch your legs, and explore before continuing on your journey.

1. Pottawattamie Squirrel Cage Jail When passing through Council Bluffs, be sure to visit the Pottawattamie Squirrel Cage Jail. This unique three-story rotunda jail was built in 1885 and operated until 1969. It's now a museum where you can learn about the history of this fascinating jail and see what life was like for its inmates. The rotating cellblock design is a must-see!

2. Lauritzen Gardens In Omaha, don't miss the opportunity to visit Lauritzen Gardens. These beautiful botanical gardens cover 100 acres and feature a variety of themed gardens, including rose and Victorian gardens. There's also an amazing arboretum and an extensive nature trail. It's a peaceful and beautiful place to spend a few hours surrounded by nature.

3. Kansas City's Union Station When you reach Kansas City, make a stop at Union Station. This historic train station has been beautifully restored and now houses a museum, science center, and several restaurants. The architecture is stunning, and the exhibits are both educational and entertaining. It's a great place to learn about the history of railroads and enjoy a meal in a unique setting.

4. Missouri State Capitol As you near the halfway point of your trip, be sure to visit the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City. This beautiful building is an architectural masterpiece and offers guided tours so you can learn about the history and significance of the Capitol. The grounds are also lovely for a leisurely stroll.

5. Gateway Arch Finally, as you approach Okawville, make a stop in St. Louis to see the iconic Gateway Arch. This symbol of the city is a must-see, and you can even take a tram to the top for incredible views of the city and the Mississippi River. There's also a museum at the base of the arch where you can learn about its construction and the role it played in westward expansion.

In conclusion, the best route for this trip is to start in Council Bluffs, Iowa and head east on I-80 toward Omaha. From there, you'll continue east on I-80 and I-29 until you reach Kansas City, then head southeast on US-50 toward Jefferson City. Finally, you'll continue on I-44 east through St. Louis until you reach Okawville, Illinois. This route will take you past all of these amazing attractions and provide you with a diverse and interesting road trip experience. Don't forget to pack your camera and plenty of snacks for the journey!