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Take the family on a fun road trip to experience the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway!
There is plenty of railroad history all along the byway. The railroad museums in Council Bluffs and Sioux City offer fun for all ages. Don't miss Railroad Days in Council Bluffs! For the little ones, the Watson Steam Train & Depot will surely delight! Take a ride on the miniature trains at this fun spot in the Missouri Valley City Park. Don't forget your furry children! The Little Willow Dog Park in Missouri Valley is one of the best dog parks in the region. The chainsaw carved statues are dedicated to beloved dogs that have cross the rainbow bridge. Check out the list below, then plan your road trip on the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway using the Explore the Byway page. |
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Union Pacific Museum
Photo: Unleash CB
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Explore 150 years of American history, from the origins of the nation's first transcontinental railroad in 1862 to the advanced technology of modern-day railroading. Free admission.
"Great place to visit with the family! It is free and has really interesting stuff." "Wonderful display of UP train history. Fun for the whole family." "Great place for kids. Free will donations. Lots of good information and very interactive for children looking for something to do this would be a great place to check out." |
Watson Steam Train & Depot
Photo: Travel Iowa
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Watson Station is a miniature railroad station with artifacts, an original 1948 Ottaway steamer, and 2 gas engines, open weekends, holidays and for private bookings.
Watson Depot is open from May to October. Admission to Watson Station is free. There is a $3.00 train ride cost for all ages. "This is the cutest little train station ever. Always a good time to go around the track. Very fun place. Great place to take the kids." "The train is really great, kids loved it. Super friendly staff, a great spot to stop." |
Sioux City Railroad Museum
Photo: Abigail P. (Yelp)
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Located at the former Sioux City Engine Terminal and Car Repair Shops of the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railway, a.k.a. the Milwaukee Road, this once large and industrious complex is now home to the Sioux City Railroad Museum. In 2018, this site designated as the Milwaukee Railroad Shops Historic District was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
"Seems like there's something new to see every time I visit! What a great experience for "kids" of all ages. I really appreciate the newly paved pathways!" "Such a great place to bring a family with children. The ability to touch a locomotive, ride a scale train, go inside cars/coaches are worth every penny for the entry fee!" |
Little Willow Dog Park
Photo: Iowa Road Trip
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Off leash one-acre dog park with areas for large and small dogs. Double gated entry. Water stations, waste bags provided. Shade shelters in both areas. Agility equipment, tennis balls, training stations all for your dog's pleasure!
Come admire our entryway with chainsaw carved dog likenesses carved by known Artist Jeff Coss of Bear Grove Chainsaw Carvings! "Favorite dog park my fur babies and I have been to!" "This is probably the best offer I've ever been to it's amazing as well have the people are wonderful a cool little old lady comes and takes care of it everyday my dog loves coming to this park." |
Three more for the road . . .
Holly View AcresFamily-owned corn maze and pumpkin patch.
Photo: Holly View Acres
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Welch's Pumpkin PatchSmall, family owned pumpkin patch.
Photo: Welch's Pumpkin Patch
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Scarecrow Farm
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Siouxland’s favorite destination for fall fun.
Photo: Scarecrow Farm
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