Step into the shadows of Pottawattamie County’s haunted history with overnight paranormal investigations. Discover ghost stories, use specialized equipment, and see if you can catch evidence of the supernatural.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8-10 hours overnight
Fitness Level
Participants should be in average physical shape, able to stand or walk for extended periods
Wildlife
History
Many of these sites were active during the late 1800s and are tied to local legends of hauntings and unsolved mysteries.
Conservation
The investigation team emphasizes respectful interaction with the sites to preserve their historical value and avoid damage.
Historical Society of Pottawattamie County
Step into the shadows of Pottawattamie County’s haunted history with overnight paranormal investigations. Discover ghost stories, use specialized equipment, and see if you can catch evidence of the supernatural.
The Historical Society of Pottawattamie County in Council Bluffs, Iowa preserves and shares local history through curated tours, museum experiences, and specialty events. The organization offers public and group tours at the unique Squirrel Cage Jail, built in 1885 and operated as a county jail until 1969. Visitors can join a 45-minute guided tour that highlights the jail's rotary design, construction, and historical context.
The Society also offers experiences at RailsWest History Museum, located in the historic Rock Island Depot. RailsWest programming includes guided group tours and self-guided visits that showcase locomotives, rail cars, and exhibits on regional rail heritage. These tours provide tangible connections to Council Bluffs' role in American railroad history.
For those seeking a different kind of after-hours experience, the Historical Society hosts private overnight paranormal investigations at reputedly haunted locations. Investigators use specialized equipment and explore established techniques while following strict safety and site-preservation guidelines. Across all offerings the Historical Society emphasizes historical accuracy, public education, and preservation. Tours are led or coordinated by trained guides or staff familiar with site history and artifacts. Events and tours follow published schedules and visitor guidelines to ensure a safe, informative visit.
By combining preserved historic sites, museum exhibits, guided interpretation, and specialty programs, the Historical Society of Pottawattamie County provides access to Council Bluffs history for school groups, adult visitors, and specialty-interest guests. Programs are suitable for history buffs, train enthusiasts, and school groups, offering hands-on interpretation, preserved artifacts, and structured visits tailored to group needs and families.
Tours Offered
5 experiences
Guided, self-guided, and specialty events
Historic Landmark
Squirrel Cage Jail 1885
Rotary jail open for tours
Museum Location
RailsWest at Rock Island Depot
Rail exhibits and locomotives
Audience
School & Group Tours
45-minute school-friendly programs
Book guided Squirrel Cage Jail tours, RailsWest group visits, or private overnight paranormal investigations in Council Bluffs today.
Follow safety guidelines
Always listen to your guide and stay within designated areas during the investigation.
Bring night-vision gear
A good flashlight and optionally night-vision devices can enhance your experience.
Dress warmly
Overnight in historic buildings can be chilly; wear layered clothing.
Respect the sites
Preserve the integrity of historic locations for future investigations.
Warm clothing
Necessary to stay comfortable during overnight investigations in potentially chilly environments.
winter
Night-vision goggles
Enhances visibility in low-light conditions, optional but recommended.
Digital voice recorder
Capture EVP (Electronic Voice Phenomena) sessions for later review.
Comfortable hiking boots
Support long hours of standing and walking on uneven surfaces.