For travelers who crave the beauty of wide-open landscapes, the peaceful rhythm of rail journeys, and the charm of small-town America, there’s no better route than through Iowa. This Midwestern gem, often underestimated in travel plans, holds a quiet but essential place on the Amtrak map. Whether you’re exploring the rolling countryside, connecting to Chicago or Denver, or simply appreciating a sustainable way to travel, the amtrak stations in iowa are your ticket to an unforgettable journey.
This in-depth blog explores every Amtrak station in Iowa—highlighting their routes, services, nearby attractions, and how they bridge the gap between rural charm and national connectivity.
Why Iowa’s Amtrak Stations Deserve Your Attention
Iowa may not be home to the country’s largest cities, but its train stations offer something just as valuable—direct connections to iconic rail lines like the California Zephyr and the Southwest Chief, linking the state with both coasts. Whether you’re looking to escape the daily grind or travel across the country with comfort and scenery, Amtrak makes it possible.
More than just stops on a map, Iowa’s Amtrak stations are rooted in history, surrounded by natural beauty, and filled with local culture. They offer the simplicity of travel without the chaos of airports and the stress of congested highways.
The Two Major Amtrak Routes Through Iowa
???? The California Zephyr
Route: Chicago ➝ Denver ➝ Salt Lake City ➝ San Francisco
Stops in Iowa: Burlington, Mount Pleasant, Ottumwa, Osceola, Creston
Scenic Highlights: Mississippi River crossings, rolling hills, and the vast plains of the Midwest
This is Amtrak’s most scenic cross-country route, and Iowa travelers are lucky to board it from five locations within the state.
???? The Southwest Chief
Route: Chicago ➝ Kansas City ➝ Albuquerque ➝ Los Angeles
Iowa Stop: Fort Madison
Famous For: High desert views, Native American heritage, and the historic Santa Fe trail
This route offers a rich mix of culture and scenery—and Fort Madison is Iowa’s exclusive entry point.
Complete Guide to Amtrak Stations in Iowa
1. Fort Madison Station (FMD)
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Line: Southwest Chief
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Address: 902 20th Street, Fort Madison, IA
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Highlights: A beautifully restored historic depot with views of the Mississippi River.
Why Visit: Fort Madison’s station is both a transport hub and a piece of history. It’s one of Iowa’s most scenic Amtrak locations, offering vintage charm and convenient access to downtown.
Amenities:
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Indoor waiting area
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ADA compliant
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Public restrooms
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On-site parking
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Nearby attractions: Old Fort Madison, downtown riverfront
2. Burlington Station (BRL)
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Line: California Zephyr
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Address: 300 South Main Street, Burlington, IA
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Highlights: A river-facing open platform that’s rich in local charm.
Why Visit: Nestled alongside the Mississippi, this station offers a quiet and contemplative space to wait for your train. While minimal in structure, it’s close to many walkable downtown amenities.
Amenities:
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Outdoor shelter
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Parking nearby
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Limited ADA access
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Walking distance to shops and cafes
3. Mount Pleasant Station (MTP)
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Line: California Zephyr
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Address: 418 North Washington Street, Mount Pleasant, IA
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Highlights: A small-town stop perfect for event travelers and rural riders.
Why Visit: While the structure is simple, this station serves thousands during major events like the Midwest Old Threshers Reunion. It’s a key connection point in southeastern Iowa.
Amenities:
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Outdoor shelter only
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Street parking
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No ticketing services
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Nearby attractions: Midwest Electric Railway, museums
4. Ottumwa Station (OTM)
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Line: California Zephyr
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Address: 210 West Main Street, Ottumwa, IA
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Highlights: A combination station and local museum—the best of travel and education in one.
Why Visit: This station doubles as the Wapello County Historical Museum, offering cultural enrichment before boarding your train. It’s one of Iowa’s more developed Amtrak stations.
Amenities:
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Indoor waiting
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Restrooms and exhibits
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ADA accessible
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Local shops and eateries nearby
5. Osceola Station (OSC)
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Line: California Zephyr
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Address: 201 South Main Street, Osceola, IA
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Highlights: Closest Amtrak station to Des Moines.
Why Visit: Osceola serves as the rail link for central Iowa, especially Des Moines. It offers great facilities and transit access, making it ideal for longer trips.
Amenities:
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Indoor waiting room
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Long-term parking
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ADA compliant
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Rental cars and taxis available
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Nearby: Casinos, lodging, and quick highway access
6. Creston Station (CRN)
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Line: California Zephyr
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Address: 116 West Adams Street, Creston, IA
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Highlights: Located next to a gorgeous historic depot from 1899.
Why Visit: While Amtrak boards from a platform beside the depot, the old station building is worth seeing on its own. It’s now used by local government, but its architecture and historical ambiance make it a unique stop.
Amenities:
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Outdoor platform
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ADA accessible
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Free parking
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Nearby walking trails and shops
Comparison Chart: Amtrak Stations in Iowa
Station Route Waiting Area ADA Access Parking Closest Major City Landmark Nearby Fort Madison Southwest Chief Indoor Yes Yes Keokuk Old Fort Madison Burlington California Zephyr Outdoor Partial Yes Galesburg, IL Snake Alley Mount Pleasant California Zephyr Outdoor No Yes Fairfield Old Threshers Grounds Ottumwa California Zephyr Indoor Yes Yes Oskaloosa Historical Museum Osceola California Zephyr Indoor Yes Yes Des Moines Lakeside Casino Creston California Zephyr Outdoor Yes Yes Council Bluffs Historic 1899 DepotWhy Train Travel Works in Iowa
Traveling by train offers Iowans several advantages:
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No Airport Stress – Skip TSA lines and long boarding queues.
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Eco-Friendly – Train travel has a lower carbon footprint than flying or driving.
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Comfort and Space – Roomy seats, wide aisles, and the ability to move freely.
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Affordability – Especially for advance bookings, Amtrak is budget-friendly.
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Local Access – Rural travelers can hop on a train without having to drive to a major city.
Practical Tips for Using Iowa’s Amtrak Stations
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Arrive Early: Most Iowa stations are unstaffed. Aim to arrive 30–45 minutes before departure.
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Use the App: Amtrak’s mobile app lets you track train times and ticket status in real time.
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Bring Snacks: Not all stations have vending machines or cafes.
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Be Prepared for the Weather: Some stations have no indoor shelters.
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Explore the Town: Many stations are walking distance from local gems.
The Future of Rail in Iowa
There are increasing discussions on expanding Amtrak’s service to other Iowa cities, including Des Moines and Cedar Rapids. With federal support for sustainable infrastructure and a growing appreciation for eco-conscious travel, Amtrak’s role in the Midwest is poised to grow.
If these expansions come to fruition, it could mean more frequent routes, better station upgrades, and additional cities joining the Amtrak network in the years ahead.
Conclusion: Take the Scenic Route Through Iowa
The amtrak stations in iowa may not be flashy, but they offer dependable, scenic, and comfortable travel options through America’s heartland. From the historical buildings of Fort Madison to the riverbanks of Burlington and the museum ambiance in Ottumwa, each station provides a different slice of Iowa’s charm.
