Council Bluffs Convention & Visitors Bureau Showcases Tourism Growth and Community Partnerships
Posted October 24, 2025
Posted by Board of Supervisors and Public Relations
At the October 22 Pottawattamie County Board of Supervisors meeting, Council Bluffs Convention and Visitors Bureau (CBCVB) Executive Director Mark Eckman and Marketing Director Craig Carlsen presented the organization’s Fiscal Year 2025 Annual Report, highlighting continued growth in tourism, strong digital engagement, and a refreshed community brand under the “Unleash Council Bluffs” identity.
Sustained Tourism Momentum
According to the CBCVB, visitors spent $336.24 million in Pottawattamie County during 2023, as reported by Tourism Economics.
That spending generated more than $3.18 million in hotel/motel tax revenue, marking the fourth consecutive year surpassing the $3 million benchmark.
Celebrating Local Attractions and Events
The report spotlighted a full calendar of events, including high-profile tournaments and conferences that collectively generated 8,456 room nights and an estimated $905,000 in local economic impact.
Highlights included hosting the Iowa Association of Business and Industry’s Taking Care of Business Conference, the U.S. Open Badminton Championships, and record-breaking attendance at Stir Concert Cove.
Partnership with Pottawattamie County
Eckman credited ongoing collaboration with Pottawattamie Conservation for enhancing tourism during traditionally slower months, especially through promotion of Crescent Hill at Hitchcock Nature Center, a rare winter attraction unique to the region.
“The Council Bluffs Convention and Visitors Bureau team have proven to be thought-leaders in tourism promotions,” said Jeff Franco, Executive Director for Pottawattamie Conservation. “Their work has made them an integral partner to many of our area’s attractions, including Crescent Hill, drawing visitors from far beyond the expected reach. Every year they exceed our expectations. We’re lucky to have them.”
New Name, New Brand
In line with other destination organizations nationwide, the bureau officially unveiled its updated name and logo, Unleash Council Bluffs, which retains familiar colors and design elements while modernizing its look.