It seems like around every corner in Iowa, there’s an amazing small town to explore. It would take years to visit all of them – and here at OnlyInYourState, we’re always looking to add another one to your bucket list. That’s why we were so happy to find that the town of Fort Madison, a charming town of around 10,000 located near Iowa’s southeastern border, was one of the best small towns in the state. There are so many great things to do in Fort Madison, Iowa, ranging from a historic fort to a charming hotel and some great natural escapes, that spending one day here won’t be enough. You will require at least a weekend in Fort Madison to discover all this hidden gem has to offer. The town is growing fast, and it’s not surprising that many people who visit eventually decide to put down roots here.

Fort Madison is a gorgeous small town that feels frozen in time, in some places, but is a perfect modern getaway in others.
Billwhittaker/Wikipedia
A walk in the town's Rodeo Park, packed with easily-accessible hiking trails, is the perfect way to enjoy a summer day.
Rodeo Park, 2103 303rd Ave, Fort Madison, IA 52627, USA
Don Myers/Google Local
The town's top attraction is Old Fort Madison, a historic fort that played a key role in the War of 1812.
Old Fort Madison, 716 Riverview Dr, Fort Madison, IA 52627, USA
Kingsley Inn/Facebook
Visit the Old Fort Madison website for more information.
For a hearty meal in Fort Madison, Fort Colony Restaurant is a local favorite.
Ray Heberer III/Google Local
This retro diner serves up huge portions of country-style favorites, with all the sides and desserts you could want.
Fort Colony Restaurant, 5102 Avenue O, Fort Madison, IA 52627, USA
Debbie Gardner/Google Local
Check out the Fort Colony Restaurant website for the full menu.

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Putt-A-Round is the town's mini-golf course, and the whimsical theming makes it a great choice for all ages. There is also a snack shop on site.
Putt-A-Round FM, 203 1st St, Fort Madison, IA 52627, USA
Don Myers/Google Local
You’ll find the latest updates on Putt-A-Round’s Facebook page.
For the best desserts in town, you'll definitely want to head to Hall's Ice Cream - an old-school dairy counter that also sells burgers and hot dogs.
Hall's Ice Cream/Facebook
The soft-serve and dilly pops are both great, but the blended shakes are the most indulgent item here.
Hall's Ice Cream, Inc., 2002 Avenue L, Fort Madison, IA 52627, USA
Hall's Ice Cream/Facebook
To spend the night here, you won't beat The Kingsley Inn, a historic and acclaimed mid-priced hotel.
Kingsley Inn/Facebook
Every room here has a unique theme, and it's the perfect spot for a romantic getaway.
Kingsley Inn, 707 Ave H, Fort Madison, IA 52627, USA
Management/Trip Advisor
Book your stay on the Kingsley Inn's Hotels.com listing.

Have you visited the small town of Fort Madison? Let us know your favorite things to do in Fort Madison, Iowa in the comments section, and tell us about your favorite under-the-radar Iowa small towns!

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Fort Madison, IA, USA