Iowa by Rail: Hidden Gems at Every Station

Amid the sweeping plains and rolling farmlands of the American Midwest, Iowa offers more than just quiet countryside charm. It’s also home to a series of strategically placed railway hubs that help connect this heartland state with the broader Amtrak network. Whether you're planning a scenic transcontinental ride or just a short intercity trip, the amtrak stations in iowa

play a critical role in regional travel and the nation’s rail system.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the locations, routes, amenities, and surrounding attractions of Iowa’s Amtrak stations. These stations—though fewer in number compared to larger states—offer access to some of the most iconic train routes in the country and serve as entry points to the state's rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

Why Amtrak Travel in Iowa Matters

Amtrak offers a slower, more scenic alternative to air or car travel. For many Iowans, Amtrak is not only a nostalgic throwback to the golden age of railroads but also a practical and eco-friendly mode of transportation. The state may not be saturated with stations, but the ones that do exist are well-positioned to connect travelers with some of the most significant national routes—chief among them, the California Zephyr and the Southwest Chief.

These trains stretch from Chicago to the Pacific Coast, bringing passengers through Iowa’s small towns and vibrant communities before entering the dramatic landscapes of the Rockies and the desert Southwest.

The Two Major Amtrak Routes in Iowa

🚆 California Zephyr

Route: Chicago, IL ➝ Emeryville, CA

Iowa Stops: Burlington, Mount Pleasant, Ottumwa, Osceola, Creston

The California Zephyr is often called one of the most beautiful train rides in North America, and its passage through Iowa provides a gentle, charming transition between the Midwest and the mountains of Colorado.

🚆 Southwest Chief

Route: Chicago, IL ➝ Los Angeles, CA

Iowa Stop: Fort Madison

This line offers passengers the opportunity to journey through the great expanses of the Midwest before heading southwest through Kansas, New Mexico, and Arizona into Southern California.

Station-by-Station Guide to Amtrak Stations in Iowa

🚉 Fort Madison Station (FMD)

Route: Southwest Chief

Address: 902 20th Street, Fort Madison, IA

This restored Mission-style depot stands proudly near the banks of the Mississippi River. As Iowa’s only stop on the Southwest Chief line, it holds great importance for travelers heading southwest.

Station Highlights:

Historic architecture

Indoor waiting area

ADA accessibility

Staffed services available

Nearby Attractions:

Old Fort Madison

North Lee County Historical Society

Riverview Park

🚉 Burlington Station (BRL)

Route: California Zephyr

Address: 300 S Main Street, Burlington, IA

This unstaffed station near the riverfront provides convenient access to one of Iowa’s most interesting small towns. Though small, the station is well-placed and within walking distance of Burlington’s historic downtown.

Station Highlights:

Outdoor boarding

Free parking

Accessible platform

Nearby Attractions:

Snake Alley (America’s crookedest street)

Crapo Park and Arboretum

Art Center of Burlington

🚉 Mount Pleasant Station (MTP)

Route: California Zephyr

Address: 418 N Washington Street, Mount Pleasant, IA

Mount Pleasant’s Amtrak stop reflects the small-town charm of the city itself. It's the perfect jump-off point for exploring Iowa’s agricultural and rail history.

Station Highlights:

Free parking

Outdoor platform

No on-site staff

Nearby Attractions:

Midwest Old Threshers Museum

Harlan-Lincoln House

Saunders Park

🚉 Ottumwa Station (OTM)

Route: California Zephyr

Address: 210 W Main Street, Ottumwa, IA

Ottumwa is one of Iowa’s better-equipped Amtrak stations. The station shares space with the Wapello County Historical Museum and is fully staffed, making it a more accessible and accommodating stop.

Station Highlights:

Indoor waiting area

Ticketing services

ADA compliance

Nearby Attractions:

Ottumwa Riverwalk

Beach Ottumwa Water Park

Bridge View Center

🚉 Osceola Station (OSC)

Route: California Zephyr

Address: 201 S Main Street, Osceola, IA

This station is particularly important as it provides the closest Amtrak access point to Iowa’s capital, Des Moines. Osceola is also known for its ease of access and friendly service.

Station Highlights:

Indoor seating

Free long-term parking

Rental car and local bus service nearby

Nearby Attractions:

Lakeside Casino

Clarke County Historical Museum

East Lake Park

🚉 Creston Station (CRN)

Route: California Zephyr

Address: 116 W Adams Street, Creston, IA

Creston offers a nostalgic view into America’s rail history, with a modern platform situated beside a historic 1899 depot building that now serves as a community hub.

Station Highlights:

Outdoor boarding platform

ADA accessibility

Adjacent historic museum

Nearby Attractions:

Creston Arts Center

McKinley Park

Union County Historical Museum

Benefits of Traveling by Amtrak in Iowa

✅ Cost-Effective Travel

Train tickets are often cheaper than flights and provide greater flexibility with luggage.

✅ Eco-Friendly

Rail travel is one of the most energy-efficient modes of transportation, helping reduce your carbon footprint.

✅ Comfortable and Spacious

Compared to airline seats, Amtrak offers significantly more legroom, wider seats, and the ability to move around during the trip.

✅ Scenic Experience

No other form of travel allows you to sit back and take in Iowa’s beautiful cornfields, prairies, and charming towns quite like a train.

Tips for Amtrak Travel in Iowa

Check Timetables: Many stations only serve one or two trains per day.

Book Early: Especially for long-distance rides—this ensures the best price and seating.

Prepare for Minimal Amenities: Some stations are unstaffed and may not offer food or restrooms.

Use the Amtrak App: For live updates, e-tickets, and platform information.

Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes ahead of departure time.

Looking Forward: The Future of Amtrak in Iowa

As demand for sustainable and alternative travel grows, Iowa is expected to see investment in its railway infrastructure. Future goals include:

Establishing new routes to Des Moines and Iowa City

Increasing train frequency

Enhancing station amenities and safety

Promoting regional tourism through rail connectivity

These developments could further transform the amtrak stations in iowa into even more vital travel nodes for residents and visitors alike.

Final Thoughts: Explore the Midwest by Train

In a fast-moving world, train travel offers a return to slower, more meaningful journeys. Each of Iowa’s Amtrak stations—whether grand or humble—acts as a portal into the rich landscapes and stories of the Midwest. Whether you’re embarking on a cross-country trip aboard the California Zephyr or heading to the Southwest via Fort Madison, you’re engaging in a form of travel that blends comfort, scenery, and history.