Explore Railroad
History!

Located in historic downtown Council Bluffs, Iowa, on the Missouri River, we're a great place for friends and family to come and learn about the Union Pacific Railroad.

Directions

Museum Information

Free, Self-Guided General Admission

The museum is open:

Thursday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Masks are strongly encouraged when the community level is elevated.

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Visitor Reviews

"Keep up the good work. It was fun learning about trains. It's an amazing museum!"

"This museum has fantastic displays! Love the demonstration of what made America great: hard working American spirit!"

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  • Our mission is to share American History through the lens of the railroad, connecting generations who have been impacted by Union Pacific

    The museum is housed in a historic Carnegie Library building in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

    Visitors can explore an extensive compilation of items from 150 years of our nation's western history, including artifacts, photographs, documents and equipment.

    Donate or become a patron

    All donations support the Union Pacific Museum Association, a 501(c)3 registered nonprofit. 

  • Join us for our free public events

    We offer many special tours and events throughout the year. 

    History Express FREE Tour: From 1:30-2:30 p.m.

    Every Saturday, museum staff holds a standing tour that provides an overview history of 150 plus years of the railroad. We will meet in front of the business car on the first floor. 

    Build Some STEAM Family Day: April 15th, 10:00-5:00 p.m.

    Join Union Pacific Railroad Museum for a STEAM-based Family Day! Explore the new Union Pacific Railroad Museum app with content available in both Spanish and English. With special guest Made New Makerspace, you will get the chance to create Morse Code Circuits. Then, design and build your own bridge and create take-home bookmarks. Admission is free and open to the public!

    Learn more here