Few railroads have gone to the great lengths of the Union Pacific to preserve and document their past. The Union Pacific Railroad Museum houses one of the oldest corporation collections of any kind in the country. Visitors will not find lines of steam locomotives, diesels, or rolling stock. Rather, they will be inundated with a tasteful display of artifacts, photographs, and documents that trace the development of the UP and the role it played in the American West.
Choices
The museum can be taken in whole or digested by specific eras depending on your interests. The Union Pacific’s history is a history of the American West. The collection dates from the mid-1800s and features materials highlighting the building of the transcontinental railroad. Surveying equipment, early rail equipment, firearms, and other artifacts fill the building.
When to go
With the exception of a raging snowstorm, even winter is a good time to visit the museum. It is open Thursdays through Saturdays. Exhibits are changed and special events occur periodically during the year.
Good to know
One of the museum’s permanent exhibits is devoted to passenger service. It features a cutaway coach, lounge, and dining cars as well as multimedia exhibits and thousands of artifacts.
Worth doing
Take time to tour both Council Bluffs and Omaha. Both are culturally rich cities with much to offer visitors. Council Bluffs has several casinos and is Iowa’s leading gaming spot. The Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha is a world-class zoo that appeals to adults and children alike.
Don’t miss
The museum has a combination of static and interactive displays. The working locomotive simulator is educational as well as a lot of fun.
Getting there
Located on the east side of Council Bluffs, the museum is easily accessible for motorists from I-80 or I-29. It is near Bayliss Park with its lighted water fountain, monuments, and sculptures.
Location: 200 Pearl Street, Council Bluffs, IA
Phone: 712-329-8307
Website: uprrmuseum.org
E-mail: Form on website
