Fort Madison IowaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Fort Madison, Iowa.
1. Old Fort Madison
HISTORIC MILITARY OUTPOST
Old Fort Madison is a historically accurate replica of the original 1808 military outpost located in Riverview Park. The fort stands as a testament to Iowa's earliest American settlement and offers visitors a glimpse into frontier military life. Visitors can explore the blockhouses, barracks, and officers' quarters while learning about the fort's role during the War of 1812.
2. Sheaffer Pen Museum
ICONIC WRITING INSTRUMENTS
The Sheaffer Pen Museum showcases the legacy of the renowned Sheaffer Pen Company, which operated in Fort Madison for decades. Exhibits display vintage pens, manufacturing equipment, and the evolution of writing instruments throughout the company's history. Visitors can learn about the innovative technologies and craftsmanship that made Sheaffer pens world-famous.
3. North Lee County Historical Society
REGIONAL HERITAGE CENTER
The North Lee County Historical Society preserves and presents the rich history of Fort Madison and the surrounding region. Housed in the historic CB&Q Depot, the museum features artifacts, photographs, and exhibits chronicling the area's development. Visitors can explore displays on Native American history, early settlement, riverboat commerce, and railroad heritage.
4. Historic Cellhouse Row District
PRISON ARCHITECTURE HERITAGE
The Historic Cellhouse Row District represents a unique piece of Iowa's correctional history. This architectural complex features historic prison structures that showcase the evolution of penitentiary design and construction. Visitors can gain insights into the history of incarceration in Iowa through the preserved buildings of this distinctive district.
5. Fort Madison Amtrak Depot
HISTORIC RAILWAY STATION
The Fort Madison Amtrak Depot serves as an active transportation hub and historical landmark in the city's Depot Complex. The beautifully preserved station continues to welcome passengers on Amtrak's Southwest Chief route between Chicago and Los Angeles. Visitors can admire the architectural details while experiencing a working piece of America's rail transportation system.
6. Santa Fe Depot Museum
RAILROAD HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Santa Fe Depot Museum celebrates Fort Madison's rich railroad heritage in a historic station building. Exhibits highlight the impact of rail transportation on the development of the city and surrounding region. Visitors can explore railroad artifacts, photographs, and learn about the significance of the double-decker swing-span bridge that crosses the Mississippi River.
7. Riverview Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
Riverview Park offers scenic views of the Mississippi River and serves as a recreational hub for Fort Madison residents and visitors. The park houses the Old Fort Madison replica and provides spaces for picnicking, walking, and outdoor events throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the riverfront while participating in various recreational activities or attending community festivals.
8. Downtown Riverfront District
HISTORIC SHOPPING AREA
The Downtown Riverfront District features an eclectic mix of shops, services, and restaurants in historic buildings along the Mississippi River. This charming area showcases Fort Madison's commercial heritage while offering modern shopping and dining experiences. Visitors can stroll the brick-paved streets, browse unique boutiques, and enjoy river views in this vibrant district.
9. Park-to-Park Residential Historic District
VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURE SHOWCASE
The Park-to-Park Residential Historic District stretches between Old Settlers Park and Central Park, featuring numerous homes listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This walkable neighborhood showcases exceptional examples of Victorian-era architecture and craftsmanship. Visitors can admire the historical residences and appreciate the preserved character of this distinctive Fort Madison district.
10. Mississippi River Bridge
HISTORIC SWING-SPAN STRUCTURE
The Mississippi River Bridge at Fort Madison is the world's longest swing-span double-decker bridge and the only remaining example of this type of structure on the Mississippi River. The lower deck carries rail traffic as part of Amtrak's Southwest Chief route, while the upper deck previously served road vehicles. Visitors can marvel at this engineering achievement that continues to serve transportation needs while opening to allow river traffic to pass.
11. Dry Creek Music Festival
ANNUAL MUSICAL CELEBRATION
The Dry Creek Music Festival is a popular annual event that brings live music performances to Fort Madison. Typically held in May, the festival showcases a variety of musical genres while bringing the community together. Visitors can enjoy performances, food vendors, and a festive atmosphere in this celebration of music and culture.
12. Lee County Fair
IOWA'S OLDEST COUNTY FAIR
The Lee County Fair holds the distinction of being Iowa's oldest county fair, showcasing agricultural heritage and community traditions. The fair features livestock exhibitions, produce displays, competitions, carnival rides, and entertainment for all ages. Visitors can experience authentic rural Iowa culture while enjoying the timeless traditions of this historic county fair.
13. Old Settlers Park
HISTORIC COMMUNITY GREEN
Old Settlers Park serves as one of the bookends for Fort Madison's historic residential district and offers a peaceful green space in the community. The park honors the early pioneers who established the settlement after the original fort was abandoned. Visitors can enjoy the landscaped grounds while reflecting on the city's founding history.
14. Central Park
DOWNTOWN COMMUNITY SPACE
Central Park forms the eastern boundary of Fort Madison's Park-to-Park Residential Historic District and provides a gathering place for community events. The park features green spaces, walking paths, and areas for recreation in the heart of the city. Visitors can relax in this urban oasis while appreciating its role in the city's historic landscape.
15. Rodeo Arena
WESTERN SPORTS VENUE
The Rodeo Arena in Fort Madison hosts exciting western sports events that celebrate the region's agricultural heritage and cowboy culture. The venue features competitions such as bull riding, barrel racing, and roping that showcase traditional ranching skills. Visitors can experience the thrill of rodeo events while enjoying a unique aspect of America's rural traditions.