Fort Madison Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Nestled along the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, Fort Madison is a captivating city in the heart of the Iowa region. Steeped in history and blessed with natural beauty, this charming destination offers a plethora of experiences for every traveler.

One of the main attractions in Fort Madison is the historic Old Fort Madison. Built in 1808, this reconstructed fort takes visitors back in time to the days of the early American frontier. Explore the barracks, visit the blacksmith shop, and witness reenactments of life in the 19th century. The fort's strategic location offers stunning views of the river, making it a favorite spot for photography enthusiasts.

For those seeking outdoor adventures, Fort Madison is a gateway to some of Iowa's most breathtaking landscapes. Just a short drive away, the picturesque Riverview Park awaits with its scenic trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront promenade and soak in the tranquility of the surroundings. Fishing enthusiasts will find ample opportunities to cast their lines and reel in trophy-worthy catches.

History buffs will also be delighted by the Santa Fe Swing Span Bridge, a historic landmark that was once an integral part of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway. This iconic double-decker bridge, with its unique swing mechanism, stands as a testament to the city's rich railroad heritage. Marvel at its intricate engineering and immerse yourself in the stories of the past.

In addition to its historical and natural wonders, Fort Madison boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene. The Art Center showcases works from local and regional artists, providing a platform for creativity to flourish. Attend a live performance at the King's Theatre, a beautifully restored historic venue that hosts a variety of shows throughout the year.

When it comes to dining, Fort Madison offers a diverse culinary landscape. From farm-to-table fare to international delights, there is something to satisfy every palate. Indulge in mouthwatering steaks, fresh seafood, or sample the local delicacies that showcase the flavors of the Midwest.

Alternative names: Founded: 1835 (189 years ago)Population: 10.7 thous.Area: 13.23 mi²Elevation: 528 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 40°37'48"N, 91°19'11"W

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IowaUnited States

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Fort Madison Top Attractions

Fort Madison Attractions - What to See and Explore

Fort Madison offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Holy Family Catholic Church, St. Joseph's Church Complex, St. Luke's Episcopal Church, Moyce–Steffens House. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Church • Gothic Revival architecture
Holy Family Catholic Church
Holy Family Catholic Church is a parish of the Diocese of Davenport. The parish is the result of a merger between Saints Mary and Joseph Parish and Sacred Heart Parish in the city of Fort Madison, Iowa, United States. It maintains both of the former parish church buildings as worship sites. The oldest parish in town, St. Joseph, and St.
Church • Gothic Revival architecture
St. Joseph's Church Complex
The St. Joseph's Church Complex is a collection of historic buildings located in Fort Madison, Iowa, United States. At one time the complex housed a Catholic parish in the Diocese of Davenport. St. Joseph and St. Mary of the Assumption parishes merged in the 1990s to form Saints Mary and Joseph Parish.
Church • Gothic Revival architecture
St. Luke's Episcopal Church
St. Luke's Episcopal Church, formerly known as Hope Episcopal Church, is an historic church building located in Fort Madison, Iowa, United States. It is a parish church of the Episcopal Diocese of Iowa, and it is a contributing property in the Park-to-Park Residential Historic District listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Vernacular architecture
Moyce–Steffens House
The Moyce–Steffens House, also known as the French Creek House, is a historic residence located in Fort Madison, Iowa, United States. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1997.
Gothic Revival architecture • Interesting neighbourhood • Romanesque architecture
Chief Justice Joseph M. Beck House
Chief Justice Joseph M. Beck House is a historic building located in Fort Madison, Iowa, United States. It was individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984.
40°38'2"N • 91°17'14"W
Walter A. Sheaffer House
The Walter A. Sheaffer House, also known as the Craig & Margaret Abolt House, is a historic residence located in Fort Madison, Iowa, United States. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2006. The listing includes two structures, the main house and the garage cottage.
Tudor Revival architecture
Craig and Virginia Sheaffer House
The Craig and Virginia Sheaffer House, also known as the John and Marion Keenan House, is a historic residence located in Fort Madison, Iowa, United States. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1993.
40°38'9"N • 91°18'32"W
George E. Schlapp House
The George E. Schlapp House is a historic residence located in Fort Madison, Iowa, United States. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. George E. Schlapp was born in 1839 in what is now Germany.

Day trips

Fort Madison – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Fort Madison, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Nauvoo Illinois Temple (Nauvoo), Community Field (Burlington), Nauvoo House (Nauvoo State Park).

6.5 miSW
Church, Sacred and religious sites, Temple
Nauvoo Illinois Temple, Nauvoo
The Nauvoo Illinois Temple is the 113th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is the third such temple that has been built in Illinois.
17 milesNE
Arenas and stadiums, Baseball, Sport venue
Community Field, Burlington
Community Field is a stadium in Burlington, Iowa. It is primarily used for baseball and is the home field of the Burlington Bees collegiate summer baseball team of the Prospect League.
7.3 miSW
History museum, Museum
Nauvoo House, Nauvoo State Park
The Nauvoo House in Nauvoo, Illinois, is a boarding house that Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, began constructing in the 1840s.
49 milesS
Museum, Visitor center, History museum
Villa Kathrine, Quincy
The Villa Kathrine is a Moroccan-style home located on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River in Quincy, Illinois. The unique home, sometimes branded as a castle, was built in 1900 by architect George Behrensmeyer for wealthy Quincy native W.
17 milesS
Church, Gothic Revival architecture
Church of All Saints, Keokuk
The Church of All Saints is a parish of the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Davenport. The church is located in Keokuk, Iowa, United States. The church building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as St. Peter Church, the name of the congregation that built it.