Hotels in Council Bluffs

Blossoms and Beyond: Unveiling the Art and Beauty of Council Bluffs

Discover the charm of Council Bluffs, Iowa, where history meets vibrant culture. Nestled along the Missouri River, this welcoming city invites you to explore its fascinating museums, including the Union Pacific Railroad Museum, and the serene beauty of the Lewis and Clark Historic Trail. Stroll through lush parks adorned with colorful flowers or enjoy a lively evening downtown, filled with friendly hotels and local dining delights. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or a unique off-the-beaten-path adventure, Council Bluffs offers a delightful blend of experiences that captivate every traveler’s heart.

Discover great hotels near Council Bluffs

Council Bluffs offers a variety of hotel accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly options to comfortable mid-range stays. Travelers can find everything from cozy rooms to modern amenities, with competitive room rates and attractive hotel deals. Whether you're looking for a holiday inn or quality inn, you'll have plenty of choices for a pleasant stay. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers near Council Bluffs:

1. Sleep Inn & Suites Omaha AirportOpens in a new window: This inviting budget-friendly hotel is ideal for leisure travelers seeking comfort and convenience. With a focus on a pleasant stay, it offers a range of amenities including a complimentary breakfast service starting as early as 4 AM, which is perfect for those catching early flights. The property features clean, spacious rooms and a quiet atmosphere, allowing for a restful night's sleep. Guests appreciate the friendly service and the hotel's close proximity to Eppley Airport, making it a seamless choice for travelers looking for an enjoyable experience.
2. Candlewood Suites Omaha Airport by IHGOpens in a new window: Candlewood Suites Omaha Airport by IHG is a charming budget-friendly hotel with a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, making it a standout choice for travelers seeking a welcoming atmosphere. This property features modern amenities including complimentary cribs and window guards for added child safety. The spotless rooms and attentive service create a comfortable environment for leisure seekers. The convenient shuttle service enhances the travel experience, allowing guests to explore the area with ease. The warm and inviting ambiance sets the stage for a delightful stay.
3. Best Western Plus Omaha Airport InnOpens in a new window: Best Western Plus Omaha Airport Inn is a delightful budget-friendly hotel, boasting a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, ideal for travelers looking for comfort and convenience. With a focus on creating a welcoming environment, this property offers essential amenities including complimentary cribs and a reliable airport shuttle service. The hotel’s clean and inviting atmosphere ensures a pleasant stay, while its close proximity to Eppley Airport makes it an excellent choice for those flying in and out. The responsive staff and well-maintained facilities add to the overall appeal, providing a satisfying travel experience.

Where to stay near Council Bluffs

When visiting Council Bluffs, Iowa, consider staying in Omaha, Carter Lake, or Crescent. Omaha offers vibrant attractions like the zoo and gardens, while Carter Lake is known for its friendly atmosphere and access to outdoor activities. Crescent features charming points of interest. For first-time visitors, Omaha is the best choice due to its variety and accessibility.

1. OmahaOpens in a new window: Omaha is an exciting city that offers a vibrant blend of culture, shopping, and outdoor activities. With its renowned Omaha Zoo, which is considered one of the best in the country, you'll find plenty of family-friendly fun. The city is also home to beautiful gardens and parks, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. For shopping enthusiasts, the Old Market district features unique boutiques and art galleries, while the nightlife scene includes a variety of cultural attractions like theaters and concert venues that showcase live performances. If you’re looking for a dynamic experience with lots to see and do, Omaha is a fantastic choice.
2. Carter LakeOpens in a new window: Situated right next to Omaha, Carter Lake offers a more relaxed atmosphere while still providing easy access to the city's amenities. This friendly community is perfect for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, especially around the scenic Carter Lake itself. You can spend your days fishing, boating, or simply enjoying the lakeside parks. The proximity to Omaha means you can easily venture into the city for additional shopping and cultural experiences while returning to a quieter setting at the end of the day.
3. CrescentOpens in a new window: If you’re looking for a quaint and charming getaway, Crescent is a lovely option. This small town offers a peaceful retreat with local parks and natural beauty. While it may not have the bustling attractions of larger cities, Crescent is ideal for those who appreciate a slower pace and the opportunity to explore the surrounding landscapes. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and take in the local charm, making it a great base for exploring nearby areas like Omaha and Carter Lake.

Things to do in Council Bluffs

Nestled along the Missouri River, Council Bluffs offers a delightful mix of lush parks and scenic landscapes. Travelers can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or picnicking amidst vibrant flowers, followed by exciting evenings filled with live music and eclectic shopping. With cozy hotels nearby, it’s an inviting stop for anyone seeking adventure and relaxation.

• Heartland of America ParkOpens in a new window – Enjoy a leisurely stroll in this beautiful urban park. With its scenic landscapes and vibrant flowers, it’s a perfect spot to relax, have a picnic, or simply take in the natural beauty around you. Don't forget to check out the park's impressive lake and the stunning fountains that create a serene atmosphere.
• Fun-PlexOpens in a new window – Dive into a day full of excitement at this amusement park! With thrilling rides, water slides, and a variety of games, Fun-Plex is the ultimate destination for families and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're racing down a slide or enjoying a classic carousel ride, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
• Lauritzen GardensOpens in a new window – Step into a botanical wonderland at Lauritzen Gardens. Explore meticulously designed gardens featuring diverse plant life, vibrant flowers, and serene walking paths. It's an ideal place for nature lovers to immerse themselves in the beauty of horticulture and find inspiration in the gardens' seasonal displays.
• The Durham MuseumOpens in a new window – Discover the rich history of the region at The Durham Museum. With engaging exhibits and fascinating artifacts, this history museum offers a window into the past. Explore the stories that shaped the community and enjoy the beautiful architecture of the restored Union Station building.
• Lewis & Clark LandingOpens in a new window – Visit this historic riverfront area where the famous explorers first set foot. Enjoy picturesque views of the Missouri River and learn about the significance of the landing through informative displays. It’s a lovely spot for a leisurely walk along the river, complete with scenic benches and landscaping.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Council Bluffs

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Council Bluffs is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are typically lower. For those looking to explore the area's key historical landmarks and cultural sites, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This timeframe allows visitors to enjoy attractions such as museums, art galleries, and local dining experiences, all while taking in the vibrant atmosphere that includes friendly people and live music. Visiting during these months provides great value for money, making it an ideal choice for travelers on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: For those planning a trip to Council Bluffs, exploring the DealsOpens in a new window and Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on hotel booking platforms can reveal discounted rates on accommodations as your travel date approaches. By activating email alerts or push notifications, you may discover timely updates on flash sales and special promotions. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available via the app enables travelers to compare hotel prices and amenities, helping you identify our best options. This way, you could be among the first to know if rooms become available or if prices drop, making it easier to book a hotel in Council Bluffs.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so having some flexibility with your travel dates could help you find a better deal on your stay in a Council Bluffs hotel. If you're interested in a more unique experience, boutique hotels often provide a personalized touch and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price seems a bit high, we may suggest alternative dates that could be more budget-friendly to help you find a good option.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be pricier, but thanks to Council Bluffs's great public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that’s still well-connected. If you're interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby cities, you can often find excellent value for your money. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Council Bluffs

Council Bluffs experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 23.7°F (-4.6°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 76.1°F (24.5°C). June is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Council Bluffs, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, February, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by no rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.