This Is Iowa’s Most Bizarre Attraction You Can’t Miss!
Get ready to explore Iowa’s creepiest (and most bizarre) attraction, the Squirrel Cage Jail, where history and horror meet in Council Bluffs. đ± #IowaAttractions #WeirdTravel #HistoricJails
Council Bluffs, Iowa – It’s a strange and eerie attraction that’s sure to send shivers down your spine. Welcome to the Squirrel Cage Jail, a historic site that’s as bizarre as it is fascinating. Built in 1885, this jail was designed like a giant rotary cage, making it a one-of-a-kind architectural marvel.
The idea behind the Iowa jail’s design was simple yet ingenious. With wedge-shaped cells that rotated inside a massive cage, it was meant to be escape-proof and required minimal supervision. This unique setup earned it the nickname “Squirrel Cage,” as prisoners were like squirrels trapped in a revolving wheel.
Despite its innovative design, the jail had its share of problems. The rotating mechanism could be dangerous, and some inmates even got injured. But that didn’t stop it from being used for almost a century, from 1888 to 1969.
Today, the Squirrel Cage Jail stands as a museum, preserved as a snapshot of a peculiar era in criminal justice. Visitors can explore its three floors of revolving cells, see the marks left by infamous prisoners, and get a glimpse into the past. It’s a place that’s both creepy and captivating, making it a must-visit for anyone who loves the weird and the wonderful.
So, if you’re ever in Iowa and looking for an unusual adventure, don’t miss the chance to explore the Squirrel Cage Jail. It’s a piece of history you won’t find anywhere else!
Know Before You Go
Opening Hours:
- April to October: Thursday to Saturday, 11 a.m. â 4 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m. â 4 p.m.
- November to March: Saturday, 11 a.m. â 4 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m. â 4 p.m.
Pro Tip: Arrive at least 30 minutes before closing to ensure you have enough time to explore all the exhibits and make your way out!
Admission Fees:
- Historical Society of Pottawattamie County Members: Free
- Adults: $10.00
- Public Safety Workers: $6.00
- Seniors (60 and over) and Students: $8.00
- Ages 6 – 18: $5.00
- Ages 5 and Under: Free
Make sure to plan your visit accordingly and enjoy a unique journey through history at the Squirrel Cage Jail!
đŁ Have you ever been to the Squirrel Cage Jail? Is their a quirky place in your hometown we should visit? Let is know in the comments below! âŹïž
