Iowa is home to several notable historic towns. From the first town in the state (Dubuque) to one of the oldest capital cities in the Midwest (Des Moines), we’ve got so much to show off! There’s one tiny city that sometimes gets overlooked in the shadow of the larger towns nearby.  But if you’re a history buff, you’ll love a trip to delve into Burlington, Iowa history, which is some of the most interesting in the Hawkeye State.

Throughout the town, you'll find historic buildings looking much like they did when they were constructed!
Ian Poellet/Wikimedia Commons
The old Burlington public library, pictured here, dates back to 1868.
Snake Alley is the best known spot in Burlington.
Steve Wilson/Wikimedia Commons
This windy alleyway is known as the World's Most Crooked Street. In the spring and summer in Iowa, it's home to artists, cyclists, roller skaters and tourists.
One of the most well known spots in tow is the Garret Phelps House.
Google Local / Natalie Wright
The Garret Phelps House, which sits at the top of Snake Alley, has been turned into a museum celebrating the earliest days of this vibrant city.

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There are several gorgeous, historic churches throughout town as well.
Ian Poellet/Wikimedia Commons
The First Methodist Episcopal Church, built in 1889, is one of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in Iowa.
The Burlington Police-Fire Station was built in 1907 and has been serving the city ever since.
Ian Poellet/Wikimedia Commons
Up at Crapo Park, you'll find the Hawkeye Log Cabin.
Google Local / Matt Oakes
The Cabin is now a historic site, and it was built in 1910 as a replica of early pioneer homesteads.
All around Burlington you can step back in time to its earliest days...
Flickr / David Wilson
... while enjoying everything this beautiful Iowa river town has to offer.

So, if someone were to ask you, “What is Burlington, Iowa known for?” you’d know exactly what to say!

Check out the Burlington, Iowa website for more facts and tidbits about one of the state’s most historic communities.

Have you ever been to Burlington, Iowa? If so, what was your favorite part? Would you agree that it is among the best towns in Iowa? What other small towns in Iowa do you like to visit? We’d love to read about your experiences in the comments section below!

If you can’t get enough of Iowa’s historic towns, read about The Small Town In Iowa With More Than 350 Historic Buildings.

For those interested in staying a night or two in Burlington, be sure to consider the Fairfield Inn & Suites Burlington.

If you’re still in the mood for more Iowa adventures, take a look at this video:

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More to Explore

More Iowa Adventures

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | December 13, 2023

Where can we find other waterfront restaurants in Iowa?

  • Bracco World Cafe & Island Bar in Arnolds Park is known for their delicious shrimp dishes, tacos, Cajun entrees, and more.
  • The Off Shore Bar and Grill in Bellevue draws folks for near and far who love their fish and seafood entrees, great burgers, pizzas, and signature cocktails.
  • The Iowa River Power Restaurant in Coralville serves high quality steaks, seafood, and also has a wonderful Sunday brunch buffet.

Read on to learn about some of the many other outstanding waterfront restaurants in Iowa.

Where can we find small towns in Iowa?

  • Fort Madison is a popular destination for foodies, as the town has an amazing culinary scene.
  • Pella is the place to experience Dutch culture, including during the annual Tulip Festival.
  • Lansing is a quaint riverside town that is known for its picturesque water views and a campground only a few minutes away from the water.

Read on to learn more about the other many other charming small towns in Iowa.

Where can we find museums in Iowa?

  • The Farmhouse Museum in Ames is a historic structure that at one time served as a residence for the Dean of Iowa State University where it is located.
  • The Sanford Museum & Planetarium in Cherokee has been recognized as one of the best museums in the Midwest.
  • The Union Pacific Railroad Museum in Council Bluffs offers an array of exhibits relative to railroad history in the state.

Read on to learn about the many interesting museums in Iowa.

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Burlington, IA, USA