What age groups is this tour suitable for?

The tour is specially designed for students in kindergarten through sixth grade.

How long is the experience?

The program lasts about two hours, perfect for holding young students’ attention.

Is the tour mostly indoors or outdoors?

The experience primarily takes place indoors with some brief transitions outdoors.

Are there any physical requirements?

Participants should be able to walk and stand for about two hours, but the difficulty is easy.

Can parents or chaperones join the tour?

Yes, chaperones and adults are welcome to participate alongside the students.

Is prior knowledge of railroad history needed?

No prior knowledge is required; the tour is educational and accessible to beginners.

Exploring the Legacy of the Transcontinental Railroad in Council Bluffs: A Unique Educational Adventure for Kids | History Tour

Experience a journey through time with the Legacy of the Transcontinental Railroad tour in Council Bluffs, Iowa, designed specifically for students from kindergarten through sixth grade. This two-hour immersive program invites young adventurers to step into a pivotal chapter of American history—the building of the Transcontinental Railroad, which forever changed the nation’s landscape and economy. Situated in Council Bluffs, a critical junction city where east met west, this educational adventure offers a captivating look at the engineering triumphs and human stories behind the railroad’s creation. Council Bluffs itself played a vital role as the eastern terminus of the Union Pacific Railroad, bridging the continent starting in the 1860s. The Legacy tour brings this history alive through hands-on activities, storytelling, and exhibits that highlight the railroad’s impact on the settlement of the West, transportation innovations, and the diverse workforce including railroad workers and indigenous peoples. Unique to this area is the blend of historical artifacts and engaging programming that fosters curiosity and learning tailored to young minds. What sets this experience apart is its interactive approach that goes beyond textbooks. Kids are not only spectators but participants, encouraged to ask questions and engage with costumed interpreters who bring figures of the past vividly to life. Amid the educational setting, students gain an appreciation for the railroad’s engineering challenges, such as bridging vast plains and rugged terrain, and the economic opportunities it spurred. This focus on tangible history makes the Legacy of the Transcontinental Railroad a standout destination for families and school groups visiting Council Bluffs. As an educational business deeply woven into the local history and culture, this program highlights Council Bluffs' unique position at the crossroads of America’s expansion while fostering a respect for the stories and challenges of the region’s past. Whether you’re bringing a school group or looking to enrich a family visit, this trip offers an accessible and illuminating glimpse into one of the greatest infrastructural achievements in U.S. history. Nearby accommodations in Council Bluffs make it easy to plan a day visit or an extended learning adventure. The Legacy of the Transcontinental Railroad program opens up a world of exploration and offers valuable lessons on perseverance and innovation for young explorers ready to connect with the past.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for children aged 5 to 12; requires ability to walk and stand for 2 hours.

Wildlife

White-tailed deer
Red-tailed hawk

History

Council Bluffs was the eastern starting point of the Union Pacific Railroad completed in 1869, marking the joining of America’s first transcontinental railroad.

Conservation

The program promotes awareness of preserving historical artifacts and educating on the cultural impact of the railroad to support sustainable tourism.

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.

Base locationCouncil Bluffs, Iowa

Tours offered11+

Specialtyland-adventures

StewardshipLeave No Trace

My Trip

My Trip

Exploring the Legacy of the Transcontinental Railroad in Council Bluffs: A Unique Educational Adventure for Kids

A full day in Council Bluffs.

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