Across the Tracks: Iowa’s Small-Town Train Stations With Big Connections

Travelers often picture Iowa as endless fields of corn, quiet towns, and rolling prairies—but for those who love the charm of train travel, the state offers something equally timeless: a connection to the vast Amtrak network. The amtrak stations in iowa are more than simple depots—they're vital portals linking small-town America to big-city destinations like Chicago, Denver, and even the West Coast.

This blog will take you on a detailed journey through all six Amtrak stations operating in Iowa, showcasing not just train times and locations, but the history, character, and charm each station adds to the experience of traveling by rail. Whether you're commuting, heading home from college, planning a scenic cross-country trip, or rediscovering slow travel, Iowa’s Amtrak stations are here to serve.

Why Amtrak Still Thrives in Iowa

Though air travel and interstates dominate much of modern transportation, Amtrak remains an essential alternative for many Iowans. Train travel provides not just convenience, but comfort, affordability, and a unique way to see the country—especially for those who live far from major airports.

Amtrak provides daily connections to major U.S. cities via two important routes—the California Zephyr and the Southwest Chief—with six stations throughout Iowa. From the historic riverfronts of Fort Madison and Burlington to the inland heritage towns of Mount Pleasant and Creston, these stations serve as modern links to the past and future of American travel.

Amtrak Routes Serving Iowa

Two long-distance Amtrak routes run through the state:

• California Zephyr: One of Amtrak’s most scenic and popular routes, traveling from Chicago to Emeryville, CA (near San Francisco), with stops in Burlington, Mount Pleasant, Ottumwa, Osceola, and Creston.

• Southwest Chief: Running between Chicago and Los Angeles, this line makes a single Iowa stop in Fort Madison.

Combined, these two routes offer Iowans and visitors access to the American heartland and beyond.

The Six Amtrak Stations in Iowa: Full Profiles

🚉 Fort Madison, IA – Southwest Chief

• Address: 902 20th Street, Fort Madison, IA

• Opened: 1910 (renovated and reopened in 2021)

• Route: Southwest Chief

Fort Madison’s Amtrak station is a restored Santa Fe Depot situated along the Mississippi River, offering a touch of Spanish Revival elegance and a strong dose of rail history. The station is fully accessible and offers indoor seating, restrooms, and parking.

Local Highlights: Visit Old Fort Madison, explore the scenic riverfront, or take in historic architecture downtown.

🚉 Burlington, IA – California Zephyr

• Address: 300 S. Main Street, Burlington, IA

• Route: California Zephyr

• Facility: Unstaffed platform with limited shelter

Located right by the Mississippi River, Burlington's station is basic but functional. With no indoor waiting area, it’s advised to arrive on time and dress for the weather. Its strategic location gives travelers scenic views and access to the quirky Snake Alley and downtown Burlington.

Travel Tip: Consider exploring the shops and riverfront areas before or after your train.

🚉 Mount Pleasant, IA – California Zephyr

• Address: 418 North Washington Street, Mount Pleasant, IA

• Route: California Zephyr

• Facility: Shelter platform only

Mount Pleasant’s Amtrak station is small and largely unstaffed but plays an important role in regional travel. It’s especially popular during the Midwest Old Threshers Reunion, an annual celebration of agricultural machinery and music.

Nearby Attractions: Midwest Old Threshers Heritage Museum, McMillan Park

🚉 Ottumwa, IA – California Zephyr

• Address: 210 West Main Street, Ottumwa, IA

• Route: California Zephyr

• Special Feature: Integrated with the Wapello County Historical Museum

Ottumwa’s station is notable for combining travel and history. As one of the more developed stations in Iowa, it offers indoor waiting, restrooms, and exhibits from the adjoining museum. It’s fully ADA accessible and located near shopping and restaurants.

Perfect For: History lovers and travelers seeking more than just a boarding stop.

🚉 Osceola, IA – California Zephyr

• Address: 201 South Main Street, Osceola, IA

• Route: California Zephyr

• Proximity Advantage: Closest Amtrak station to Des Moines

Osceola’s Prairie-style station is a lifeline for travelers coming from or heading to Des Moines. With an enclosed waiting area and long-term parking, it's among the more convenient options for those in central Iowa.

Nearby Services: Taxis, car rentals, and shuttle services to Des Moines

🚉 Creston, IA – California Zephyr

• Address: 116 West Adams Street, Creston, IA

• Route: California Zephyr

• Historical Note: Original depot from 1899, still in use by the city

The Amtrak platform in Creston is modest, but the adjacent historic depot remains a must-see. Though city offices now occupy the old building, its stone structure and Romanesque Revival architecture harken back to the golden age of train travel.

Don’t Miss: A self-guided tour around the station for great photography and historical insights.

Station Comparison at a Glance

Travel Tips for Using Amtrak in Iowa

• Arrive Early: Many stations are unstaffed, and boarding times can be brief. Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.

• Pack Smart: Bring snacks and essentials, especially at shelter-only stations.

• Stay Updated: Download the Amtrak app to check real-time train statuses and platform changes.

• Be Weather-Ready: Some platforms are exposed to the elements. Dress accordingly.

• Make It a Trip: Turn your rail ride into a mini vacation—many of Iowa’s Amtrak towns are rich in history, food, and natural beauty.

The Future of Amtrak in Iowa

Iowa’s rail future looks promising. There are ongoing discussions about expanding service to major cities like Des Moines and Dubuque. Improved infrastructure and growing demand for sustainable transportation could bring more stations, more routes, and more travel opportunities in the years ahead.

Support for rail travel continues to grow nationwide, and Iowa is uniquely positioned to benefit due to its central location, small-town networks, and intercity demand.

Final Thoughts: Let the Rails Lead the Way

While the airplane may dominate long-distance travel today, there’s a quiet renaissance taking place on America’s railroads. Iowa, with its humble yet vital network of train stations, reminds us that travel doesn’t have to be rushed or impersonal.

Whether you're crossing the country or just hopping between towns, the amtrak stations in iowa offer a rare opportunity: to slow down, look out the window, and enjoy the journey. These stations are not just stops—they’re stories waiting to be told, landscapes waiting to be seen, and adventures waiting to begin.