Nestled in the scenic Loess Hills of southwest Iowa, Silver City is a tight-knit community full of charm, resilience, and local pride. Located just 10 miles northeast of Glenwood and roughly 21 miles southeast of Council Bluffs, this small but mighty city is part of the greater Omaha-Council Bluffs metropolitan area. With a population of 246 as of 2023, Silver City offers a peaceful rural lifestyle enriched by a vibrant community spirit.
Founded in 1879 with the arrival of the Wabash, St. Louis and Pacific Railway, Silver City has transformed its railway roots into a cyclist’s paradise. The Wabash Trace, a 63-mile trail converted from the old railroad line, runs directly through town. At the trailhead, visitors will find Gerald D. Jones Centennial Park, a shaded resting spot with a gazebo and picnic area that welcomes thousands of riders each year. Across town, Silver City’s main City Park hosts a farmer’s market every Saturday morning during the summer, along with a walking path and playground equipment for family fun.
The town is experiencing a fresh wave of revitalization, spearheaded by SCUBA—the Silver City Urban Betterment Association—working alongside the local historical society and city leadership. Community pride is symbolized by flags in purple and gold, honoring the legacy of the former school. In 2025, colorful planters were added throughout town, blooming with purple and yellow flowers to match.
Silver City’s Historical Museum offers a window into the past, open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon during the summer months. On the fourth Sunday of every month, the museum hosts the Family Circle Music Jam from 2 to 5 p.m.—a lively event featuring a mix of country, bluegrass, old-time, Irish, and polka music. Musicians of all ages and skill levels are welcome to bring their instruments and join the fun.
The Silver City Library remains a cozy cornerstone of the community, now open Wednesday and Thursday from 1–6 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Saturdays are especially engaging with interactive activities like games, crafts, and story time for kids. The library also hosts a monthly book club, meeting on the first Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m.
Local hotspots include El General, a Mexican restaurant offering flavorful meals, weekly car shows on Wednesdays, and live music that brings culture and energy to town. Bruning’s BBQ also makes regular stops, often selling out quickly to hungry locals who gather at the American Legion building for good food and good company. The Legion, often in partnership with the historical society, also hosts events like the popular spring tea, fostering community connections and preserving local heritage.
Looking ahead, Silver City is planning a community-wide celebration: “Save the Weekend” happening September 12–14. The weekend will feature My Sister’s Junk sale, a city-wide garage sale organized by SCUBA, breakfast at the Legion, open hours at the museum, and specials at El General—with Bruning’s BBQ likely to join in as well.