Tom Hanafan River's Edge Water Feature
River's Edge, Council Bluffs, IA
Riverfront splash pad at Tom Hanafan River's Edge Park next to River's Edge Pavilion and Belles' Play Garden.
The water feature is part of a larger family destination at River's Edge.
Photo 1 of 3. The water feature is part of a larger family destination at River's Edge.
Editorial notes
What stands out
This is the most destination-style splash stop in Council Bluffs thanks to the riverfront setting and adjoining Belles' Play Garden.
Good fit
- Families wanting a signature park outing rather than only a splash stop
- Mixed-age groups combining water play with climbing and playground time
- Visitors pairing a riverfront walk with kid-friendly cooling off
Consider another option if
- Families seeking a fenced or tightly contained splash area
- Visitors wanting published toddler-only zones
- Trips where weather risk makes a longer riverfront outing less appealing
Know Before You Go
- Bring
- Towels
- Bring
- Sunscreen
- Bring
- Water shoes
- Bring
- Change of clothes
- Hours vary with season or weather
- Yes
What to Expect
For kids
- Toddlers
- Preschoolers
- Big kids
- Mixed ages
- Ground sprays
- Drop-in visits
For caregivers
- Benches
- Free parking
- Playground
- Walking trails
- Little shade
- Short walk away
- Visit type
- Half day signature park outing
Read more about this location
The Tom Hanafan River's Edge water feature is a riverfront splash pad at one of Council Bluffs' signature parks. It sits beside River's Edge Pavilion and Belles' Play Garden, making it easy to combine water play with destination playground time and skyline views. The city notes that this splash pad uses a recirculating system similar to a pool and is treated and filtered regularly, which adds confidence for families planning a summer visit.
Hours & Admission
Posted hours
Check posted weekly hours
View full weekly hours
| Monday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
Based on posted weekly hours. Holidays, private events, seasonal schedules, and special closures may differ.
Admission
| Visitor | Price |
|---|---|
| Admission | Free |
Admission details can change. Confirm current fees before visiting.
Accessibility
Known Features
Park destination with interpretive seating and surface textures nearby in Belles' Play Garden
Considerations
Families with specific mobility or restroom access needs should confirm current conditions directly
Accessibility and comfort
Wheelchair accessible
Location
4250 River's Edge Parkway
next to River's Edge Pavilion
Council Bluffs, IA, 51501
Other options nearby
Bayliss Park Splash Pad
Small child-activated splash pad built into downtown Bayliss Park beside the fountain plaza and performance space.
Pirate Cove Water Park
Outdoor water park with zero-depth entry, pirate-ship play features, slides, concessions, and party options in Council Bluffs.
Sources & Updates
1 public source on record · Last checked Apr 10, 2026. Time-sensitive details may have changed.
View source and update details
- Last check on record
- Apr 10, 2026
- Sources reviewed
- 1 public source
Public sources
- City of Council Bluffs - Water Feature and Belles' Play Gardencouncilbluffs-ia.gov
Official page confirms daily hours and recirculating treated water system.
Checked: name, address, hours, water treatment note, adjacent amenities, images
What changed
April 10, 2026
Created listing from official City of Council Bluffs River's Edge page.