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Take a scenic drive to explore these historic sites on the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway.
Sioux City and Council Bluffs, the two largest communities in western Iowa's Loess Hills, have numerous historic sites near the byway. Take in the scenic views of the Missouri River at memorials in Sioux City, or explore the history of the Mormon Trail in Council Bluffs. For Civil War enthusiasts, the small town of Tabor requires a visit. This list of five historic sites (plus three for the road!) is just a snapshot of the plethora of historic sites located throughout the Loess Hills. Plan a historically themed road trip on the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway using the Explore the Byway page. |
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War Eagle Park
Photo: Lance Brisbois
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Wambdi Okicize, popularly known as War Eagle, was a defining presence in the founding of Sioux City. Today, his legacy lives on in the monument dedicated to him along a bluff overlooking the Missouri River. This historic site is maintained by the Sioux City Public Museum.
War Eagle Park is located on a bluff overlooking the the confluence of the Big Sioux River and Missouri River. There is a gravel drive leading to the impressive overlook and monument to War Eagle. Fall is a particularly beautiful time to visit. Read more about War Eagle and the park that commemorates him on the Sioux City Public Museum website . |
Sergeant Floyd Monument
Photo: Iowa Road Trip
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The Sergeant Floyd Monument commemorates Sergeant Charles Floyd, Jr., the only member of the Corps of Discovery to die on the journey.
The Sergeant Floyd Monument, a 100-foot high sandstone obelisk, was built in 1901. Floyd’s remains were moved a third time and reburied at the base of the monument. Located along US Highway 75 in Sioux City, the monument is within a 23-acre park overlooking Interstate 29 and the Missouri River. Another interesting historic site nearby is the First Bride's Grave at South Ravine Park. A stone marker built in 1938 commemorates Rosalie Menard Leonais, believed to be the first bride of a non-Native American in the area that would become Sioux City. |
Lincoln Monument
Photo: City of Council Bluffs
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This impressive pylon was erected in July 1911 and commemorates Abraham Lincoln's visit to the site in 1859. From this site, Lincoln viewed and selected the Eastern Terminus of the first transcontinental railroad built in the United States.
The Lincoln Monument is located just north of the historic 100 W Broadway block in downtown Council Bluffs. The monument is on an elevated site with scenic view of Council Bluffs and Omaha to the west. The Lincoln Monument is located on Lafayette Avenue, just west of Fairview Cemetery. Located in the cemetery is the Ruth Anne Dodge Memorial, also known as the Black Angel. Legend has it the spot is haunted and visitors sometimes report unusual occurrences! |
Kanesville Memorial
Photo: Church of Latter Day Saints
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Kanesville, now called Council Bluffs, was an important settlement on the Mormon Trail. A log tabernacle was built in 1846 near this site, and that is where Brigham Young was sustained president by the members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Both the original tabernacle and the 1996 replica are no longer standing. The site was rededicated in 2024 and includes a large garden with native landscaping, sculptures, and monuments. These artworks, together with interpretive signage, commemorate the historical events related to the church in the area. The site is served by a visitor center to interpret the events associated with the Council Bluffs area. |
Todd House
Photo: Golden Hills RC&D
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The Todd House is a historic house museum that was the home to abolitionist and Congregationalist minister, John Todd. The house served as a stop on the Underground Railroad prior to the Civil War.
It was built in 1853 around the time when Todd moved to Tabor as a co-founder of Tabor College and the town of Tabor. John Todd served as a model for the grandfather of the main character in the 2004 Pulitzer Prize winning novel Gilead. The Todd House is on the National Register of Historic Places and is listed as the Tabor Anti-Slavery District on the National Park Service Network to Freedom. Tours are available by appointment by calling (712) 313-0102. |
Three more for the road . . .
Squirrel Cage JailBuilt in 1885; boasts unique revolving design
Photo: Golden Hills RC&D
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Jones Creek Watershed Historic DistrictFirst watershed project in Iowa.
Photo: Seth Brooks
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Chautauqua Pavilion
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Historic landmark dating back to 1896-97.
Photo: Golden Hills RC&D
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