All Aboard Iowa: Exploring the Rich Network of Amtrak Stations in the Hawkeye State

When most people think of train travel in the United States, they envision the bustling terminals of New York City, the Pacific coastline of California, or the mountainous passes of Colorado. Rarely does Iowa get mentioned in the same breath. But for those in the know, Iowa offers a quiet yet crucial link in Amtrak’s national network. The amtrak stations in iowa are more than simple platforms or historical relics—they are portals to the broader American landscape, offering passengers an affordable, scenic, and environmentally friendly way to travel.

Whether you’re looking to venture east to Chicago, west to Denver, or simply discover more of Iowa’s local charm, understanding the significance and setup of each Amtrak station in the state is your ticket to a smoother journey. Let’s take a deep dive into the rail services crisscrossing Iowa, and spotlight the stations that keep the wheels turning.

Why Train Travel Still Matters in Iowa
In the age of air travel and interstate highways, the role of rail might seem diminished—but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In a state like Iowa, with its mix of small towns, college hubs, and business centers, Amtrak serves as a reliable and nostalgic method of long-distance travel.

From students heading home for break to retirees embarking on scenic getaways, Amtrak offers a laid-back, stress-free way to explore America. Plus, for rural communities without nearby airports, the local Amtrak stop is often their only direct link to national travel infrastructure.

Which Amtrak Routes Serve Iowa?
Currently, two major Amtrak lines travel through Iowa:

California Zephyr – This iconic route runs from Chicago, Illinois to Emeryville, California, covering some of the most scenic landscapes in America. In Iowa, it stops in Burlington, Mount Pleasant, Ottumwa, Osceola, and Creston.

Southwest Chief – Running from Chicago to Los Angeles, this historic route serves only one station in Iowa: Fort Madison. However, it connects passengers to the American Southwest in spectacular fashion.

Together, these two routes give Iowans access to both coasts—and everything in between.

The Six Amtrak Stations in Iowa: A Closer Look
🚉 Fort Madison Station (FMD)
Route: Southwest Chief

Location: 902 20th Street, Fort Madison, IA

Unique Factor: Restored 1910 Santa Fe Depot

The Fort Madison station stands proudly on the banks of the Mississippi River and serves as a living tribute to Iowa’s railway heritage. It’s the only Iowa stop on the Southwest Chief route and reopened in 2021 inside a beautifully restored historical depot.

Features:

Indoor waiting area

Restrooms

ADA accessibility

Located near the historic Fort Madison fortification and riverwalk

Best For: Travelers heading southwest or those who love architectural gems and history.

🚉 Burlington Station (BRL)
Route: California Zephyr

Location: 300 South Main Street, Burlington, IA

Highlight: Overlooking the Mississippi River

Burlington’s Amtrak station may not be elaborate, but its location offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and close proximity to the city’s charming downtown. Nearby attractions include Snake Alley and the Capitol Theater.

Key Amenities:

Outdoor platform shelter

Parking available

Partially accessible for passengers with disabilities

Ideal For: Scenic photographers, river town explorers, and Zephyr route passengers.

🚉 Mount Pleasant Station (MTP)
Route: California Zephyr

Location: 418 N. Washington Street, Mount Pleasant, IA

Special Note: Serves as a hub during the Old Threshers Reunion

Mount Pleasant may have one of the more modest Amtrak setups—an outdoor shelter with few amenities—but what it lacks in facilities, it makes up for in heart. The town comes alive during the Old Threshers Reunion, drawing crowds and showcasing Iowa’s deep agricultural roots.

Quick Info:

Open-air waiting area

Limited ADA access

Street parking available

Perfect For: Festival-goers and rural history enthusiasts.

🚉 Ottumwa Station (OTM)
Route: California Zephyr

Location: 210 W. Main Street, Ottumwa, IA

Standout Feature: Station doubles as a historical museum

Perhaps the most interesting of Iowa’s Amtrak stations, Ottumwa’s facility includes the Wapello County Historical Museum. While waiting for your train, you can view exhibits that explore the area’s rich rail and regional history.

Station Features:

Indoor seating and restrooms

ADA compliant

Museum access

Parking nearby

Recommended For: Families, history buffs, and anyone who enjoys educational layovers.

🚉 Osceola Station (OSC)
Route: California Zephyr

Location: 201 S. Main Street, Osceola, IA

Strategic Edge: Closest Amtrak stop to Des Moines

Serving as the de facto rail terminal for the state capital, Osceola’s station offers a well-maintained Prairie-style building and dependable access to Des Moines, just under an hour’s drive away.

Highlights:

Enclosed waiting area

Free parking

ADA accessible

Car rental and taxi options available

Great For: Central Iowans and travelers connecting to Des Moines or the I-35 corridor.

🚉 Creston Station (CRN)
Route: California Zephyr

Location: 116 W. Adams Street, Creston, IA

Historic Charm: Built in 1899, original depot still stands

Though the Amtrak platform is modern and minimal, the adjacent 19th-century depot is a masterpiece of Romanesque Revival design and still houses city offices. It’s one of the oldest train buildings still standing in the state.

Need to Know:

Outdoor boarding area

ADA accessible platform

On-site parking

Historic building tours available

Ideal For: Rail historians, architecture fans, and travelers from western Iowa.

Side-by-Side Station Overview
Station Route Indoor Waiting ADA Accessible Parking Historical Site
Fort Madison Southwest Chief Yes Yes Yes Yes
Burlington California Zephyr No Partial Yes No
Mount Pleasant California Zephyr No Partial Yes No
Ottumwa California Zephyr Yes Yes Yes Yes (museum)
Osceola California Zephyr Yes Yes Yes Yes
Creston California Zephyr No Yes Yes Yes

Tips for Making the Most of Iowa’s Amtrak Service
Plan Ahead: Since trains only come through once a day in each direction, it’s crucial to check the schedule and book early.

Be Prepared: Many stations are unstaffed and have minimal shelter. Bring snacks, water, and dress for the weather.

Ride for the Scenery: The California Zephyr route in particular offers incredible views of the Rockies and beyond once you leave Iowa—make sure to grab a window seat!

Download the Amtrak App: It’s a convenient way to manage tickets, track your train, and receive alerts.

Combine With Local Tourism: Extend your journey by exploring the towns themselves—whether it’s the riverfront in Burlington or the museums of Ottumwa.

The Future of Rail Travel in Iowa
The momentum behind Amtrak’s nationwide expansion includes discussions about new routes and improved service in Iowa. Proposed connections to Des Moines, Dubuque, and the Quad Cities have gained support in recent years. If funding and planning align, Iowans could soon have more frequent trains and greater access to the national rail grid.

Until then, the current network of amtrak stations in iowa continues to serve as a testament to the power of connectivity—even in the quiet corners of the Midwest.

Final Thoughts: Let Iowa Be Your Starting Line
There’s a kind of magic that comes with train travel—the rhythmic sway of the car, the ever-changing landscape outside your window, and the sense of anticipation before each stop. In Iowa, that magic is alive and well. The state’s Amtrak stations, though modest in number, offer travelers a chance to engage with the past, present, and future of American rail.