This 1885 three-story Victorian-Gothic style, brick structure is extremely unique as it is only one of three left in existence. It served as the jail between 1865 and 1969. Town legend has it that the jail is haunted. During Halloween season — and sometimes throughout the year, —  the jail hosts popular flashlight tours and paranormal investigations.
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Squirrel Cage Jail Council Bluffs

4.7
·489 reviews·Council Bluffs, United States

Explore Iowa's only standing three-story rotary jail, a unique 1885 marvel now a museum with a chilling, possibly haunted, history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal experience

CrowdLow
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This 1885 three-story Victorian-Gothic style, brick structure is extremely unique as it is only one of three left in existence. It served as the jail between 1865 and 1969. Town legend has it that the jail is haunted. During Halloween season — and sometimes throughout the year, —  the jail hosts popular flashlight tours and paranormal investigations.

Squirrel Cage Jail Council Bluffs

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal experience

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Iowa's only standing three-story rotary jail, a unique 1885 marvel now a museum with a chilling, possibly haunted, history.

4.7
(489 reviews)

"A hidden gem offering a fascinating glimpse into history with friendly staff and affordable admission."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Look for the Sign!

The Squirrel Cage Jail sign isn't always visible from the road. Keep an eye out near the Union Pacific Railroad Museum.

⏰ Allow ample time

Plan for at least 1.5 hours to fully explore and read the informative plaques.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.7 · 489 reviews

Type

Museum

👶 Good for kids🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Rotating Jail Cells

The Rotating Jail Cells

Main Jail Area

Witness the ingenious, yet flawed, three-story rotating cell block designed for maximum security.

Plaques and Stories

Plaques and Stories

Throughout the Jail

Detailed explanations bring the jail's history and inmate stories to life, offering a chilling glimpse into the past.

Paranormal Activity

Paranormal Activity

Various Cells

Allegedly haunted, visitors report cold spots and unexplained noises, adding an eerie layer to the historical experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating to the Jail

Finding the Squirrel Cage Jail can be tricky; the sign isn't always visible from the road. Look for it near the Union Pacific Railroad Museum. Parking is available nearby.

Unlocking the History

This unique rotary jail offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Allow at least 1.5 hours to explore and read the informative plaques.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal experience
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends, afternoons
Why
Staff share more stories
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Take a quick tour of the squirrel cage jail in Council Bluffs, Iowa. #iowa #jail #police #squirrel
@lazer103.3
39 likes • 1.1K views

🎯 Look for the Sign!

The Squirrel Cage Jail sign isn't always visible from the road. Keep an eye out near the Union Pacific Railroad Museum. Reddit

⏰ Allow ample time

Plan for at least 1.5 hours to fully explore and read the informative plaques. Reddit

#squirellcagejail #councilbluffsiowa #historic
@trish3dog
7 likes • 111 views
Take a quick tour of the squirrel cage jail in Council Bluffs, Iowa. #iowa #jail #police #squirrel
lazer1033
16 likes • 791 views

💰 Affordable Admission

With admission around $10, it's a budget-friendly way to experience a unique piece of history. Reddit

🗣️ Chat with Staff

The employees are full of stories and local insights; don't hesitate to ask questions! Reddit

Not on our list, but one of my FAVORITE stops near Omaha! The Squirrel Cage Jail in Council Bluffs (built in 1885) is one of the only rotary jails in the U.S.; a cell block that actually spun to keep inmates secure. 🤯 Even after the mechanism broke, it was used until 1969. The walls are still etched with names and drawings; a chilling glimpse of life behind bars. A must stop if you’re in Omaha/...
madcap__rambler
14 likes • 344 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Look for the Sign!

The Squirrel Cage Jail sign isn't always visible from the road. Keep an eye out near the Union Pacific Railroad Museum. Reddit

⏰ Allow ample time

Plan for at least 1.5 hours to fully explore and read the informative plaques. Reddit

💰 Affordable Admission

With admission around $10, it's a budget-friendly way to experience a unique piece of history. Reddit

🗣️ Chat with Staff

The employees are full of stories and local insights; don't hesitate to ask questions! Reddit

👻 Embrace the Eerie

Many visitors report paranormal experiences, adding a spooky thrill to the visit. TikTok+2

What Travellers Say

4.7
(489 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors highly recommend the Squirrel Cage Jail as a unique and affordable historical gem. The staff are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, and the informative plaques bring the jail's past to life. While finding the location can be a slight challenge, the experience is consistently described as fascinating and well worth the visit.

"Highly recommend this unique museum in Council Bluffs. It’s a hidden gem. And only $10 admission price. Trying to find the place was a bit challenging along with where to park. The first picture is of the outside of the building. We drive by it the first time as the sign for the Squirrel Cage is up by the actual museum and not by the road. Took us about 1.5 hours to go through but I could have spent more time reading all the information. There were two employees working and they were full of stories and information about the museum."

A C

"We had a great time. The history and how things were. Definitely a must see."

Jodi Parke

"We were in Omaha for a wedding this weekend and since we didn’t have to be there til the late afternoon we decided to kill some time by coming to check this place out- and I’m totally glad we did! The admission is only ten bucks, and it’s a pretty cool old piece of history to check out and learn all about! Plus the staff was super duper friendly, i definitely recommend this place 😊"

Rachel C.

What People Like

Unique rotary jail design
Affordable admission price
Knowledgeable and friendly staff

What People Dislike

Finding the entrance
Intense historical content for some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Finding the Squirrel Cage Jail can be a bit challenging as the sign isn't always visible from the main road. It's located next to the Union Pacific Railroad Museum. Reddit Many visitors recommend looking for the museum's signage to locate the jail. TikTok+1

Yes, parking is available near the Squirrel Cage Jail. Visitors have noted that finding the exact parking spot can be part of the adventure, but it is generally accessible. Reddit

Absolutely! The Squirrel Cage Jail is a popular stop for those visiting Omaha, as it's a relatively short drive across the river. It's considered a favorite stop by many near Omaha. Instagram

Driving is the most common method. If you're in Omaha, it's a quick drive across the bridge. Public transport options might be limited, so check local transit schedules if needed. Instagram

Information on wheelchair accessibility is limited, but given its historic nature, it's advisable to contact the museum directly for specific details on accessibility within the jail. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Squirrel Cage Jail is very affordable, typically around $10 per person, making it a great value for a unique historical experience. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check the official Squirrel Cage Jail website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit. TikTok+1

While advance booking might not always be necessary, it's a good idea to check if there are any special events or tours that require pre-registration, especially during peak seasons. TikTok

Yes, children can visit the Squirrel Cage Jail. However, some visitors suggest considering the age of your children, as the history can be intense. TikTok

Yes, the Squirrel Cage Jail is now a museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing its unique history and architecture. Instagram+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Squirrel Cage Jail is famous for being the only three-story rotary jail in the United States still standing. It's also known for its alleged paranormal activity. TikTok+2

Most visitors spend about 1.5 hours exploring the jail, but you could easily spend more time if you want to read all the detailed information provided on the plaques. Reddit

Inside, you'll see the unique rotating cell block, historical exhibits, and informative plaques detailing the jail's history, inmate stories, and the paranormal claims. TikTokInstagram

While not always explicitly stated as 'guided tours,' the staff are very knowledgeable and share stories, effectively providing an informative experience akin to a guided tour. Reddit

Yes, the Squirrel Cage Jail is widely considered haunted, with many visitors and paranormal investigators reporting unexplained phenomena, cold spots, and ghostly encounters. TikTokInstagram+3

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed inside the Squirrel Cage Jail, but it's always a good idea to confirm with staff upon arrival. Capturing the unique cell structure is a must! TikTokInstagram

The rotating cell block itself is the primary photo opportunity. Also, look for etched names and drawings on the walls, which offer a poignant glimpse into past lives. Instagram

While generally permitted, avoid using flash photography in certain areas if it might disturb exhibits or other visitors. Always be respectful of the historical site. TikTok

Photos often focus on the unique circular jail cells, the exterior of the building, and sometimes capture the eerie atmosphere that many visitors experience. TikTok+2

The unique design can make capturing the full scope of the rotating cells a bit challenging, but different angles can yield great shots. TikTokInstagram

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Squirrel Cage Jail Council Bluffs (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide