Discover a unique outdoor STEM experience at the Innovation Station in Omaha. Hands-on exhibits and engaging activities make learning fun amidst historic railway displays.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, with accessible options for visitors with mobility needs.
Wildlife
History
The site honors the legacy of the Union Pacific Railroad, established in the 1860s, which transformed transportation in the American West.
Conservation
The program emphasizes sustainable practices by encouraging visitors to respect the exhibits and minimize their environmental footprint.
Union Pacific Railroad Museum Association
Discover a unique outdoor STEM experience at the Innovation Station in Omaha. Hands-on exhibits and engaging activities make learning fun amidst historic railway displays.
The Union Pacific Railroad Museum Association, located in Council Bluffs, Iowa, preserves and presents over 150 years of American railroad history. The association operates a museum that interprets the story of the Transcontinental Railroad and the broader legacy of rail transportation through artifacts, exhibits, and curated programs.
Visitors can choose guided group tours, curriculum-aligned programs for K–12 students, self-guided museum visits, and public lecture series. The museum hosts the Innovation Station STEM Program, Club Car Conversations lecture nights, and specialized workshops such as the Scouting Railroad Merit Badge Workshop. Educational offerings include grade-specific sessions like Legacy of the Transcontinental Railroad for K–6th and 7th–12th grades.
Practical visitor services include free admission for self-guided group visits, reserved parking, and wheelchair availability to ensure accessibility. Student self-guided visits are available on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays to support school scheduling. Club Car Conversations feature experts and special guests who draw on the Union Pacific collection for deeper context.
The association maintains professional stewardship of artifacts and offers reliable, curriculum-focused programming for educators and group leaders. By combining preserved material culture with educational programming, the Union Pacific Railroad Museum Association provides trustworthy, research-informed experiences that connect audiences to the technological, social, and cultural impacts of railroading in the United States.
Location
Council Bluffs, IA
Museum based in Iowa
Historic Coverage
150+ Years
Over 150 years of railroad history
Programs Offered
11 programs
Tours, STEM, workshops, lectures
Accessible Visits
Free (self-guided)
Reserved parking and wheelchairs
Book group tours, reserve parking for self-guided visits, or register students for STEM and curriculum-based programs — make a reservation to secure preferred dates.
Arrive early to beat the crowds
Getting there early ensures ample time to explore all exhibit stations without rush.
Wear comfortable shoes
The outdoor layout involves walking between various stations, so comfy footwear is recommended.
Bring a notebook or tablet
Take notes or snap photos of exhibits to enhance your learning experience.
Check the weather forecast
Since activities are outdoors, good weather makes for a better visit.
Comfortable footwear
Helpful for walking between outdoor exhibit stations.
Notebook or digital device
Use for taking notes, sketching, or capturing photos.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Protects against sun exposure during outdoor activities.
summer
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during your visit.