Elks Lodge is a non profit organization in Council Bluffs, IA. Open: Mon–Fri 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Sat 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM; Sun 3:30 PM – 12:00 AM. Phone: (712) 323-2589. Average rating is 4.6 stars from 66 reviews. Website: http://www.elks.org/.
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks emblemCouncil Bluffs, IA Elks Lodge #531
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A gathering of people enjoying time at the Elks Lodge.
4.6 66 reviews Today 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM

Council Bluffs Gathers Here, Every Time

Affordable event space, community fundraisers, and genuine Iowa hospitality on McKenzie Ave.

Charity

Giving without expectation

Justice

Fairness for every person

Brotherly Love

Fellowship above all

Fidelity

Faithful to our word

About Us

A lively bar scene inside the Elks Lodge.
A lively bar scene inside the Elks Lodge.

When a young man in Council Bluffs needed help with medical bills, his community filled this hall, ate great food, and made sure he wasn't facing it alone. That's the kind of thing that happens at Elks Lodge on McKenzie Ave regularly, not because it's scheduled, but because it's who these members are.

The lodge has hosted wedding receptions for 65 guests spilling onto the fenced patio, fundraisers that actually raise money, and gatherings where the restrooms are clean, the parking is plentiful, and nobody gets nickel-and-dimed on the venue fee. Reviewers consistently call it affordable and friendly, two words that don't always go together in the event-space world.

Council Bluffs has a working-class, no-pretense character, and this lodge reflects it. The BPOE has stood for charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity since 1868, and the Council Bluffs chapter carries that forward every time someone books the hall or shows up for a benefit dinner.

What We Offer

The lodge offers flexible event rental for receptions, fundraisers, memorial gatherings, and community benefits. The main hall handles large groups comfortably, the fenced outdoor patio gives guests room to breathe, and the on-site playground means families with kids can actually relax.

Pricing is straightforward and reasonable, which is why so many local organizers come back. The staff knows how to stay out of the way when you need them to, and how to help when you don't. For benefit events, the combination of affordable space, ample seating, and easy parking makes the difference between a fundraiser that breaks even and one that actually delivers for the cause.

Beyond event hosting, the lodge supports BPOE charitable programs at the local and national level, connecting members to scholarship funds, veteran support initiatives, and youth activities throughout the Council Bluffs area.

Gallery

Take a look at our space and what we have to offer

“Great place to hold events (i.e. wedding receptions, fundraisers, etc). Reasonable prices all around. Friendly staff.”

— Stephanie Kinnecom

What Our Guests Say

Don't just take our word for it - hear it from our members & guests

Click to Rate & Review This Business ✍️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
9 years ago
"Great place to hold events (i.e. wedding receptions, fundraisers, etc). Reasonable prices all around. Friendly staff."
— Stephanie Kinnecom
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
a year ago
"Went to Benifit for young man who needed help with Medical bills. Food was great. Room available for seating. Restrooms clean. Overall, great place for large gathering. Plenty of parking. Benefit went well."
— Pamela Peterson
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
6 years ago
"It was perfect for the type of reception we were throwing. Affordable and very nice people who work there. For a party of around 65 it worked well and having the fenced in patio and playground was super great for all the kids."
— Sabrina Nelsen
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
7 years ago
"Very nice place to unwind in during this hectic holiday season! Memberships are reasonable and the people are so friendly. The bartender is knowledgable and welcoming! Stop by there if you get a chance it will make your day!!!"
— Leslee Sorensen Holiday by Design
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2 years ago
"I have rented the hall for several events and will continue to rent this hall. Great place, fenced in secure playground for the kids, kind staff, affordable always a good time."
— john maxwell

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of events can I hold at the Elks Lodge in Council Bluffs?

The lodge is well-suited for wedding receptions, fundraisers, benefit dinners, memorial gatherings, birthday parties, and community events. Groups around 65 guests fit comfortably, and the outdoor patio expands your usable space.

How much does it cost to rent the event space?

Pricing is described by guests as reasonable and affordable, especially compared to commercial venues. Contact the lodge directly for current rental rates and availability, as pricing can vary by event type and date.

Is the space family-friendly?

Yes. The lodge has a fenced outdoor patio and an on-site playground, which guests specifically mention as a reason it worked well for their gatherings. Clean restrooms and plenty of parking add to the family-friendly experience.

Do I have to be an Elks member to rent the space or attend events?

Community events and benefit dinners are frequently open to the public. For private rentals, it's best to contact the lodge directly to confirm any membership requirements for your specific event type.

Where exactly is the Council Bluffs Elks Lodge located?

The lodge is at 380 McKenzie Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503. Parking is plentiful on-site, making it easy for guests to arrive without hassle.

How do I book the lodge for a fundraiser or benefit event?

Reach out through the national Elks website at elks.org to connect with the Council Bluffs chapter. Staff are described as friendly and responsive, so don't hesitate to ask questions about setup, capacity, or catering options.

What is the Elks Lodge and what does it stand for?

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE) is a national fraternal organization founded in 1868, dedicated to charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity. Local lodges like this one support veterans, youth programs, scholarships, and community members in need.

Hours of Operation

Closed · Opens 3:00 PM
Monday 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Tuesday 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Wednesday Today 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Thursday 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Friday 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Saturday 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Sunday 3:30 PM – 12:00 AM
The Order · Since 1868

Community. Friendship. Charity.

Every Elks lodge belongs to one of America's oldest and largest fraternal orders. Through the Elks National Foundation, the Order has given more than $481 million to college scholarships, veterans, and neighbors in need.

Join the Elks
A Proud Heritage

The Elks gave America
Flag Day.

Long before it was a national observance, the Order set aside June 14th to honor the flag. Patriotism has always been one of our cardinal principles, and every lodge meeting still closes the same way it has for over a century.

“To our absent members.” — the Eleven O’Clock Toast

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Community · Friendship · Charity

Who are the Elks?

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is one of America's oldest and largest fraternal orders, founded in 1868. Every lodge is a home for fellowship, service, and patriotism in its own hometown.

$481M+given through the Elks National Foundation for scholarships, veterans, and community programs.

What the Order does

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