Posted in Iowa Small Towns March 14, 2023 by

Few People Realize How Much Railroad History Is Preserved In The Small Town Of Missouri Valley, Iowa

On the very western edge of Iowa, you’ll find the small town of Missouri Valley. This quiet destination is about 30 miles north of Omaha, and today, it’s a peaceful place with a little over two thousand residents. However, a century ago it was anything but quiet. Missouri Valley, like many other towns in Iowa, was once a railroad hub in the 19th and 20th centuries. Countless travelers and freight trains would pass through here, and the rail depot was the center of town. The old rail line no longer runs, but that doesn’t mean that the history has gone with it. Missouri Valley has dedicated itself to preserving its rail history in a unique museum, and it’s not the only place in this historic small town in Iowa where you can take a trip back to the past.

Today, automobile travel is the most common way to get around Missouri Valley - but a century ago, it was a very different story.
Jared Winkler/Wikipedia
The Chicago and North Western Railway expanded into Missouri Valley in 1867, and soon became the economic hub of the town. As many as 25 passenger trains were coming in each day!
Catherine Palczewski/Wikipedia
However, the railway eventually reduced its routes and was fully absorbed into the Union Pacific in the 1990s - relegating Missouri Valley's rail story to history.
Jack Delano/Wikipedia
Missouri Valley pays tribute to its history in the rail industry at the Watson Steam Train & Depot, a unique museum providing a family-friendly approach to the railroad.
Henry Karpf/Google Local
Inside, you'll find a re-creation of the original train depot, as well as hundreds of artifacts and examples of the time period.
Carrieaf/Google Local
You'll also see an amazing collection of railroad miniatures, some modeled on the original trains.
Henry Karpf/Google Local
The highlight of the exhibit is definitely the miniature train ride, which travels through a covered tunnel and is popular with families
Michael Waite/Google Local
Watson Steam Train & Depot, West Huron Street, Missouri Valley, IA, USA
To keep the retro vibe going, grab a meal at Penny's Diner - a charming 50s themed eatery in Missouri Valley.
Arturs Mons/Google Local
The menu is just as classic as the decor, with the club sandwiches and old-fashioned milkshakes highly recommended.
Chris Chubick/Google Local
Penny's Diner, 128 N Willow Rd, Missouri Valley, IA 51555, USA

Have you visited Missouri Valley and explored its railroad history? Let us know what you thought of this historic small town in Iowa in the comments section. Visit the Watson Steam Train & Depot’s Facebook page for more information on this charming attraction! To learn more about Iowa’s railroad history, consider taking a train-themed day trip.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: Missouri Valley, IA 51555, USA