When most people think of Iowa, they picture open prairies, charming small towns, and long country roads stretching toward the horizon. But few realize that beneath the quiet simplicity of this Midwestern gem lies a rich and enduring connection to the railroads. The amtrak stations in iowa not only preserve this legacy but actively serve as vital conduits linking Iowa communities to the rest of the nation.

With two major Amtrak routes passing through the state—the California Zephyr and the Southwest Chief—Iowa residents and travelers alike can experience the comfort and nostalgia of rail travel while enjoying stunning views of America’s heartland. From riverfront depots to century-old stations brimming with character, Iowa’s Amtrak stations are far more than just platforms—they are gateways to journeys both near and far.

Let’s embark on a ride through the state’s six Amtrak stations, uncovering their stories, features, and the experiences they offer.

Why Amtrak in Iowa Still Matters Today
Iowa isn’t home to large international airports or high-speed rail hubs, but what it offers through Amtrak is unique: a reliable, scenic, and less stressful alternative to flying or driving. Train travel appeals to those who appreciate the experience as much as the destination. With generous seating, onboard amenities, and breathtaking landscapes along the way, Iowa’s Amtrak connections are perfect for students, families, retirees, and wanderers.

For a state with wide geographic distribution and limited public transportation, Amtrak stations in Iowa bridge the rural-urban divide and keep the state plugged into the national grid.

The Two Amtrak Lines Running Through Iowa
California Zephyr
Route: Chicago → San Francisco Bay Area
Stations Served: Creston, Osceola, Ottumwa, Mount Pleasant, Burlington

Southwest Chief
Route: Chicago → Los Angeles
Station Served: Fort Madison

These routes link Iowa with destinations as far east as Chicago and as far west as the Pacific Ocean or the American Southwest. They’re not just lines—they’re lifelines.

A Stop-by-Stop Tour of Iowa’s Amtrak Stations
1. Creston Station (CRN)
Address: 116 W. Adams St., Creston, IA
Route: California Zephyr
Historic Significance: Opened in 1899 in Romanesque Revival style

Once a bustling railroad hub, Creston still celebrates its history through its preserved depot. Though the original station now houses city offices, Amtrak operates from a modern nearby platform. Travelers can enjoy the aesthetic beauty of the original structure and the convenience of contemporary service.

Features:

ADA-accessible platform

Parking available

Close to downtown restaurants and shops

Ideal For: History lovers and those headed toward Denver, Salt Lake City, or the Bay Area.

2. Osceola Station (OSC)
Address: 201 S. Main St., Osceola, IA
Route: California Zephyr
Proximity: Closest Amtrak station to Des Moines (~50 miles)

Osceola Station is a strategic entry point for the central Iowa region, especially Des Moines. Featuring a Prairie-style design from the early 20th century, the depot is both functional and attractive.

Amenities:

Enclosed waiting room

ADA-accessible entrances

Free parking

Tip: For Des Moines travelers, Osceola is the go-to station for long-distance rail.

3. Ottumwa Station (OTM)
Address: 210 W. Main St., Ottumwa, IA
Route: California Zephyr
Special Feature: Houses the Wapello County Historical Museum

A station and a museum in one—Ottumwa offers something truly special. Travelers can learn about Iowa’s rail and regional history while waiting for their train. The station is centrally located, walkable, and welcoming.

Facilities:

Indoor waiting area

Museum exhibits

Fully ADA-compliant

Notable For: Blending history, culture, and transportation under one roof.

4. Mount Pleasant Station (MTP)
Address: 418 N. Washington St., Mount Pleasant, IA
Route: California Zephyr
Event Connection: Popular during Old Threshers Reunion

Serving a quaint town with deep agricultural roots, Mount Pleasant’s station is small but meaningful. It plays a critical role during the town’s annual Old Threshers Reunion, which draws crowds from all over the Midwest.

Basics:

Open-air shelter

Limited seating

Partial accessibility

Best Visited: During festival season when the whole town comes alive.

5. Burlington Station (BRL)
Address: 300 S. Main St., Burlington, IA
Route: California Zephyr
Location Perk: Overlooks the Mississippi River

Few Amtrak stations offer views like this one. Burlington’s platform is positioned just a short walk from the river and within reach of Snake Alley, historic homes, and local eateries.

Services:

Shelter for waiting passengers

ADA accommodations

Near downtown hotels and restaurants

Great For: Travelers who want to stretch their legs before departure.

6. Fort Madison Station (FMD)
Address: 902 20th St., Fort Madison, IA
Route: Southwest Chief
Restoration Note: Returned to historic Santa Fe Depot in 2021

Fort Madison’s station is an architectural treasure. After years of operating out of a temporary structure, the station was restored to its original 1910 Mission Revival depot. With exhibits, scenic views, and a walkable riverfront, it’s one of the most picturesque Amtrak stops in the Midwest.

Includes:

Indoor seating and restrooms

ADA-compliant design

Museum and historic fort nearby

Perfect For: Fans of heritage travel, photographers, and explorers.

Quick Comparison Table
Station Route ADA Accessible Parking Indoor Waiting Nearby Attractions
Creston California Zephyr Yes Yes No Historic Depot, Downtown
Osceola California Zephyr Yes Yes Yes Gateway to Des Moines
Ottumwa California Zephyr Yes Yes Yes Museum, Downtown Shopping
Mount Pleasant California Zephyr Partial Yes No Old Threshers Reunion Grounds
Burlington California Zephyr Partial Yes No Riverfront, Snake Alley
Fort Madison Southwest Chief Yes Yes Yes Riverwalk, Historic Fort

Tips for Riding Amtrak in Iowa
Download the App: The Amtrak app allows you to check train status, book tickets, and receive alerts.

Plan for One Train Per Day: Most Iowa stations are served once daily in each direction. Timing is everything.

Arrive Early: Most stations are unstaffed; allow extra time for boarding.

Carry Essentials: Not all stations have food or vending options. Bring snacks and water.

Embrace the Journey: The views of cornfields, forests, and rivers make the ride itself a rewarding part of your travel.

Looking Ahead: Will Iowa Get More Rail Access?
With increasing national interest in expanding sustainable transportation, Iowa may be on the path to more Amtrak connections. Proposed expansions include routes to:

Des Moines (direct connection)

Quad Cities and Davenport

Dubuque

While still in early planning stages, these additions could vastly improve rail accessibility for Iowans and bolster tourism and commerce in the region.

Final Thoughts: Where the Rails Meet the Roots
In an age when travel often feels rushed and impersonal, Amtrak offers something refreshingly different—especially in Iowa. The amtrak stations in iowa provide access not just to other cities, but to experiences that start the moment you board. Whether you’re headed to the mountains, the coast, or just across state lines, Iowa’s railways invite you to slow down, look around, and enjoy the ride.

From the restored grandeur of Fort Madison to the riverfront charm of Burlington and the historical fusion of Ottumwa, each stop tells its own story. Let your next adventure begin where the rails run strong—right here in Iowa.