Iowa might be known for its sprawling cornfields, peaceful small towns, and a strong agricultural backbone—but beyond the golden fields lies a lesser-known transportation network that continues to connect the state to the rest of the country: Amtrak. With roots reaching deep into American railroad history, the amtrak stations in iowa stand as quiet but powerful gateways that link rural life with national routes.
For travelers who prefer the rhythmic clatter of wheels on rails to the stress of airport security lines or long highway drives, Amtrak offers a scenic, stress-free alternative. Iowa plays host to six active Amtrak stations, spread across its southern border, providing access to both the California Zephyr and Southwest Chief—two of Amtrak’s most iconic long-distance routes.
Whether you’re new to train travel or a veteran looking to explore Iowa’s station stops, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Why Take the Train in Iowa?
The benefits of rail travel are becoming increasingly attractive: fewer delays, no TSA checks, more legroom, and a view of America you simply can’t get from 30,000 feet in the air. Amtrak allows Iowans to travel across the country while enjoying a leisurely pace and a deeper connection to the journey.
The two Amtrak routes that pass through Iowa are:
California Zephyr: Traveling from Chicago to Emeryville, CA (near San Francisco), this route is one of the most scenic in the U.S.
Southwest Chief: Linking Chicago to Los Angeles, it crosses through deserts, plains, and historic towns.
These lines pass through six Iowa cities: Fort Madison, Mount Pleasant, Burlington, Ottumwa, Osceola, and Creston.
A Closer Look: The Six Amtrak Stations in Iowa
Each Iowa Amtrak station tells its own story, representing a blend of historical significance, architectural beauty, and modern functionality. Let’s explore them one by one.
1. Fort Madison Station (FMD)
Route: Southwest Chief
Location: 902 20th Street, Fort Madison, IA
Depot Style: Mission Revival
Historical Restoration: Reopened in 2021
Fort Madison is Iowa’s only stop on the Southwest Chief line. After operating out of a temporary structure for years, Amtrak service was moved back to the beautifully restored Santa Fe Depot, a stunning Mission Revival building from the early 20th century.
Features:
ADA accessible
Riverfront views of the Mississippi
Nearby historic military fort and downtown
Who It Serves: Travelers heading southwest toward Kansas City, Albuquerque, and Los Angeles—or east to Chicago.
2. Mount Pleasant Station (MTP)
Route: California Zephyr
Location: 418 North Washington Street, Mount Pleasant, IA
Opened: 1912
Mount Pleasant may be a smaller station, but it packs a nostalgic punch. During the annual Old Threshers Reunion, it becomes a vital part of a massive celebration of steam engines, antique farming tools, and vintage Americana.
Features:
Partially ADA accessible
Open-air waiting area
Near Old Threshers Grounds
Pro Tip: Visit in late summer to catch one of the Midwest’s most charming rural festivals.
3. Burlington Station (BRL)
Route: California Zephyr
Location: 300 South Main Street, Burlington, IA
Highlight: Mississippi River nearby
Located right along the Mississippi River, the Burlington station offers a tranquil and picturesque start (or end) to your rail journey. While simple in structure, it’s within walking distance of Snake Alley (the “crookedest street in the world”) and historic downtown shops.
Features:
Limited passenger amenities
Covered shelter
ADA accommodations available
Great For: Travelers who want to mix natural beauty with a nostalgic town vibe.
4. Ottumwa Station (OTM)
Route: California Zephyr
Location: 210 West Main Street, Ottumwa, IA
Bonus: Home to the Wapello County Historical Museum
Ottumwa’s Amtrak station is one of Iowa’s most unique, doubling as a historical museum. Passengers can browse exhibits featuring railroad artifacts, local history, and even regional art, all while waiting for their train.
Highlights:
ADA accessible
Indoor seating, restrooms, and exhibits
Cultural and educational value
Why It’s Special: No other Iowa station offers such a deep dive into the town’s roots and connection to the rail industry.
5. Osceola Station (OSC)
Route: California Zephyr
Location: 201 South Main Street, Osceola, IA
Proximity to Des Moines: ~50 miles
Serving as the closest Amtrak station to Des Moines, Osceola is a key transportation node for central Iowa. It’s especially popular among residents of the capital city looking for long-distance train travel.
Facilities:
Enclosed waiting room
Free parking
ADA accessible
Good to Know: Consider arranging a shuttle or ride service from Des Moines to Osceola if you don’t have a vehicle.
6. Creston Station (CRN)
Route: California Zephyr
Location: 116 West Adams Street, Creston, IA
Built: 1899
Style: Romanesque Revival
Creston’s depot is a visual feast for fans of old-world architecture. With its arched windows and heavy masonry, the building is a local treasure. While city offices now occupy the main structure, Amtrak passengers board from a nearby modern platform.
Essentials:
ADA compliant platform
Outdoor shelter
Ample parking
Perfect For: Architecture buffs and travelers who appreciate a touch of the historic during their modern travels.
Quick Comparison: Iowa’s Amtrak Stations
| Station | Route | ADA Access | Historic Building | Restrooms | Nearby Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Madison | Southwest Chief | Yes | Yes | Yes | Riverwalk, Fort Madison |
| Mount Pleasant | California Zephyr | Partial | Yes | No | Old Threshers Grounds |
| Burlington | California Zephyr | Partial | No | No | Snake Alley, Riverfront |
| Ottumwa | California Zephyr | Yes | Yes | Yes | Historical Museum |
| Osceola | California Zephyr | Yes | Yes | Yes | Gateway to Des Moines |
| Creston | California Zephyr | Yes | Yes | No | Historic Depot Architecture |
Tips for Taking the Train in Iowa
Arrive Early – While the trains tend to be on schedule, most stations are unstaffed, so you’ll want extra time to get settled.
Use the Amtrak App – Track your train in real-time, download tickets, and receive alerts all from your phone.
Bring Snacks and Essentials – Some stations lack vending machines, so carry what you need.
Check the Schedule – Trains on the California Zephyr and Southwest Chief run once daily in each direction.
Explore the Town – These stations are near walkable downtowns and riverside parks. Make the most of your wait!
The Future of Amtrak in Iowa
Advocates and planners are looking into expanding Iowa’s Amtrak service. There have been studies examining routes to Des Moines, the Quad Cities, and Dubuque. With renewed federal investment in rail infrastructure, Iowa could see its Amtrak presence grow substantially in the coming years.
In the meantime, the current amtrak stations in iowa remain vital links for business travelers, tourists, and residents alike—quietly connecting America’s heartland to both coasts.
Final Thoughts: All Aboard Iowa’s Hidden Rail Treasures
Train travel may not dominate the headlines like flights and expressways, but its magic endures—especially in places like Iowa. These stations are not just waypoints—they’re symbols of a transportation era that still thrives. Whether it’s the historic depot at Creston, the riverside stop at Burlington, or the revitalized Fort Madison station, each site offers a unique slice of Americana.
