subject: The 6 Amtrak Stations in Iowa: An In-Depth Look [print this page]
1. Fort Madison Station (FMD) Route: Southwest Chief Address: 902 20th Street, Fort Madison, IA Historical Highlight: Restored 1910 Santa Fe Depot
This is the only Iowa stop on the Southwest Chief route. After years of temporary operations, Amtrak service returned to its beautifully restored Mission Revival-style depot in 2021. The station is located along the Mississippi River, offering travelers scenic views and proximity to Fort Madison’s historical attractions.
Station Amenities:
ADA accessible
Indoor waiting area with restrooms
Historic charm and riverfront access
Fun Fact: Fort Madison is one of the few Amtrak stations housed inside a building that is over a century old and still actively used for passenger service.
2. Burlington Station (BRL) Route: California Zephyr Address: 300 S. Main Street, Burlington, IA Known For: Stunning Mississippi River backdrop
The Burlington station is a small, functional platform, but it’s located in a city full of surprises. Just blocks from downtown and near Snake Alley (called “the crookedest street in the world”), this station is a gateway to one of Iowa’s most scenic river towns.
Amenities:
Basic shelter
Partial ADA accessibility
Limited services—bring your own refreshments
Traveler Tip: Arrive early and stroll along the riverwalk before your train arrives.
3. Mount Pleasant Station (MTP) Route: California Zephyr Address: 418 N. Washington Street, Mount Pleasant, IA Event Highlight: Home of the Old Threshers Reunion
Small and simple, this station sees a burst of activity each fall when the Old Threshers Reunion attracts visitors from across the Midwest. The town and station both represent small-town Iowa at its finest—welcoming, historical, and proud.
Key Features:
Open-air shelter
Street parking
Limited accessibility (no indoor waiting)
Notable: Despite its simplicity, this station is a regional hub during festival season.
4. Ottumwa Station (OTM) Route: California Zephyr Address: 210 W. Main Street, Ottumwa, IA Unique Offering: Located inside a local museum
This dual-purpose facility functions both as an Amtrak stop and as the Wapello County Historical Museum. Ottumwa passengers can enjoy historical exhibits while waiting for their train—a rare bonus that blends education with travel.
Facilities:
ADA accessible
Restrooms and indoor seating
Museum exhibits about regional and rail history
Why Visit: No other Iowa station offers this much character within a waiting room.
5. Osceola Station (OSC) Route: California Zephyr Address: 201 S. Main Street, Osceola, IA Strategic Importance: Closest Amtrak stop to Des Moines
Osceola’s station is vital for travelers from central Iowa. Though Des Moines lacks an Amtrak stop, residents often drive to Osceola to catch the California Zephyr. The depot features a charming Prairie School architectural style and modern facilities.
Station Details:
Enclosed waiting room
Free long-term parking
ADA accessible
Nearby: The city center offers small-town dining and historic buildings.
6. Creston Station (CRN) Route: California Zephyr Address: 116 W. Adams Street, Creston, IA Claim to Fame: Built in 1899 in Romanesque Revival style
One of the most visually striking stations in Iowa, Creston’s historic depot is still used for city functions, while a more modern platform handles Amtrak operations. Though the train doesn't stop inside the original building, the structure is a must-see for architecture fans.
Important Info:
ADA compliant boarding platform
Parking available
Near downtown Creston shops
Ideal For: History buffs and rail heritage travelers Until then, the current amtrak stations in iowa remain reliable, scenic, and rooted in the legacy of American rail.
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