Fairview Cemetery
About
Fairview Cemetery offers families a unique opportunity to explore local history while enjoying peaceful walks through beautifully maintained grounds. The cemetery features impressive monuments, mature trees, and well-kept pathways that make for an educational outdoor experience, perfect for teaching children about Council Bluffs heritage and the importance of remembering the past in a respectful, serene setting.
Highlights
- ✓Notable historic monuments and memorials telling Council Bluffs' story
- ✓Beautiful mature trees and landscaping for peaceful nature walks
- ✓Opportunity to learn about local history and genealogy
- ✓Well-maintained walking paths suitable for families
- ✓Connection to Iowa's pioneer and railroad history
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit during spring when flowers are blooming to make the walk more visually engaging for kids
- 2.Before visiting, discuss cemetery etiquette with children,quiet voices, staying on paths, and showing respect
- 3.Bring a camera for monument rubbings or photography of interesting architecture and statuary
- 4.Turn it into a history scavenger hunt by looking for the oldest dates or most interesting names on monuments
- 5.Pack water and sunscreen as shade can be limited on pathways between monuments
Best Time to Visit
Late morning on weekdays during spring or fall offers the most comfortable temperatures and peaceful atmosphere. Avoid visiting during funeral services, and early fall provides stunning foliage without summer heat.
What to Know
This is a free, publicly accessible cemetery with parking available on-site. Bring your own snacks and drinks as there are no facilities, and remind children this is an active cemetery where respect and quiet behavior are essential.
Seasonal Notes
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable visiting conditions with blooming flowers and colorful foliage respectively. Summer visits are possible but can be hot with limited shade. Winter visits may be challenging due to snow and ice on pathways.
Nearby Eats
Head to Zio's Pizzeria (1.5 miles away) for family-friendly Italian fare, or try Burger Theory for creative burgers that kids will love, both offering casual atmospheres perfect for families.
More Activities Near Council Bluffs
Wabash Trace Nature Trail
The Wabash Trace Nature Trail offers families a beautifully paved, multi-use path that's perfect for introducing kids to biking, rollerblading, or simply enjoying an easy nature walk together. With its smooth surface and scenic route connecting various Council Bluffs neighborhoods, it's an ideal spot for families with young cyclists still building confidence or parents pushing strollers through peaceful, tree-lined surroundings.
Gerald W Kirn Middle School
Gerald W Kirn Middle School opens its public swimming pool during summer months, providing Council Bluffs families with an affordable way to beat the heat. This community facility offers both open swim sessions and swimming lessons, making it perfect for kids learning water safety skills or families just looking to splash around together.
Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge.
The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge offers families a unique adventure where kids can literally stand in two states at once! This 3,000-foot bridge spans the mighty Missouri River, connecting Nebraska and Iowa, and provides an exciting outdoor experience with stunning river views. Children love the novelty of running back and forth across the state line marker at the bridge's midpoint, making it both an educational geography lesson and an active outdoor adventure.
Council Bluffs Public Library
The Council Bluffs Public Library is a family favorite offering far more than just books. With its highly-rated children's programs, engaging story times, and popular summer reading challenges, this modern library creates a welcoming space where kids can explore, learn, and develop a love of reading through interactive activities and educational resources.