Historic Dodge House

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Official Website

DodgeHouse.org

Phone

(712) 322 2406

Hours

Tue-Sat: 10am-5pm
Sun: 1pm-5pm
Closed Mondays, January, and some holidays
Last tour begins at 4pm

Pricing

$ = Cheap, Under $10

Services

Tours, Outreach, and Education programs. The Dodge House Ballroom and Gardens are available for event rentals.

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What to do if you find yourself in Council Bluffs for the afternoon? Well, if you live there: go home! Otherwise, try checking out the Historic Dodge House. It’s pretty sweet.

Gen. Grenville M. Dodge led a pretty full life as a Union army officer and U.S. Congressman. As chief construction engineer for Union Pacific, he also played an integral part in the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad. Snappy dresser, too. His house, built for the princely sum of $35,000 in 1869, still sits at 605 Third Street in Council Bluffs, his adopted home.

Historic Dodge House GardenThe Dodge House is a 14-room mansion converted into a period museum. Extensively renovated in 1964, curators went to a lot of trouble to keep the interior looking as it would have during the General’s life (1869 – 1916). The house itself is striking, perched on (what else) a bluff! Presumably, it overlooks other bluffs in the area. And the Missouri River. That, too.

Third Street’s cobbled bricks really set the tone for the museum, giving way to the well maintained grounds outside the house, and the lavish woodwork of the interior. History buffs should not miss the museum, nor should anyone with an interest in period dress.

Parking is free, and the $7 tour (adults) takes about an hour, maybe an hour and a half. Note that tours are led by group, and depending on your arrival time, you might find yourself waiting for a few minutes. If you’re really interested, the ballroom and dining rooms are also available for rental. If you throw a costume ball @ the Dodge House, remember to invite your friends @ Omaha.net!