When people think about scenic train rides in Iowa, their first thought probably goes to the Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad. That Iowa mainstay may deliver brilliant views - but are you out of luck when colder weather rolls around? Not if you know where to look. Amtrak, the cross-country railroad, runs two long-distance routes through Iowa - the California Zephyr and the Southwest Chief. Both originate in Chicago and terminate in California - and you can take year-round Iowa train rides on either. Whether you're looking for a short jaunt through the prairie or a long journey to the coast, these memorable train rides are an epic adventure - with a spot in the Hawkeye State,
All aboard! The Southwest Chief train leaves from Chicago and makes six stops along the route in Iowa,
But that's not where the adventure ends. Sure, you can get off and stay in Iowa - or you can get settled for a multi-day trip across the American southwest.
The scenery is very different in the winter, but no less beautiful. Take in the snow-capped mountains as you ride the leisurely rails - and it all starts in Iowa.
Have you taken one of these Amtrak train rides in Iowa? Let us know what you think of these year-round scenic train rides in Iowa in the comments section. If you're planning a trip of your own soon, make sure to visit Amtrak's route page for more information about the routes and stations.
The call of the mighty Mississippi is perhaps best expressed by Johnny Cash in his song "Big River" - "Then I heard my dream was back downstream cavortin' in Davenport, And I followed you, Big River, when you called." Most of us won’t follow the Father of Waters' call of freedom and danger as Huck Finn did, by floating down with only a few planks of wood between him and the watery brown muscle. But there is another option: grab your keys and follow the Mighty Mississippi along the Great River Road in Iowa, a drive that was named among the most scenic in America by Prevention, at your own carefree pace. It's easy to see why this is easily one of the best scenic drives in Iowa -- not to mention the country as a whole.
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From New Albin in the northeastern tip of Iowa down to Keokuk in the southeastern corner, the Great River Road National Scenic Byway follows the Mississippi for 328 miles through Iowa - just a portion of the 3,000-mile network of roads along this river.
Some highlights may whet the appetite. On your way, take time to notice the locks and dams; it's worth a stop to watch the ships navigate the waters of the Mississippi loaded with cargo!
There is so much history, scenery, culture, and recreation found along this road, and you'll discover new ways to experience it with each changing season. History buffs and nature enthusiasts alike will have a blast.
When starting from the north, you'll encounter a truly captivating view in Lansing atop the 450-foot bluff in Mount Hosmer City Park. This must-see stop shows off approximately 50 miles of the Mississippi, which seems to extend endlessly, as far as the eye can see.
Effigy Mounds National Monument in Harpers Ferry has one of 18 visitor interpretive centers along the Great River Road and gives a description of the 200 American Indian mounds located on-site. In addition, travelers will find plenty of informative displays with details about the surrounding land and its storied past.
Another great view can be had at Pikes Peak State Park, situated near where the Wisconsin River joins the Mississippi. Be sure to bring along your camera as you travel along this spectacular route, as you'll want to remember every beautiful view.
Stop at Balltown for an absolutely lovely country panorama and some good eating at Breitbach’s Family Dining, Iowa's oldest bar and restaurant located just a stone's throw from this vista. After all, road trips can be exhausting and it's important to stay fueled up.
The middle stretch of our beloved Great River Road between Dubuque and Muscatine is absolutely loaded with stops, including the must-see National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium. When you stop by, you'll encounter interactive displays, riverboats, and a great variety of marine creatures in the aquarium. There's a little something here for every member of the family to embrace and appreciate.
The charming Island town of Sabula is also included in this stretch, along with Clinton, which houses the Sawmill Museum and the River Arts Center. You could drive the route dozens of times and always find something new to love.
Muscatine itself has its fair share of interesting stops, including an 1840s working-condition grist mill and the Muscatine History and Industry Center. On the southern end of Iowa’s Great River Road lies the town of Keokuk, home to the George M. Verity River Boat Museum. Talk about a perfect way to round out your journey along this incredible Iowa scenic drive.
While we've highlighted plenty of worthwhile stops along the Great River Road in Iowa, there are endless treasures just waiting to be unearthed. If you've always wanted to check out this scenic drive in Iowa but haven't quite followed through yet, well, now is the time to start planning. After all, priceless memories and incredible scenery await around every bend. Grab your keys and start exploring this magnificent road and river! Or, to recommend another of Iowa's beautiful scenic drives you think we should check out, fill out our official nomination form.
The south of Iowa is much quieter than other parts of the state, especially when you get away from the Mississippi River coastal towns. It can be easy to just dismiss the whole area as prairie that you drive through to get to where you're really going - but if you did that, you'd be missing one of the best small towns in Iowa. Eldon is a tiny Wapello County city with a population of only 783 as of the 2020 census - but it has almost as many historic spots as it does residents! The entire town feels like it came from another era, and you'll be able to visit the home of one of Iowa's most famous residents as well as witness the rebirth of some historic buildings. You can even get a great bite to eat in a throwback bar-and-grill while you're there. It's the perfect way to spend a quiet day trip in Iowa while exploring an underrated corner of the Hawkeye State. So, let's take a look at Eldon, Iowa!
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Eldon was founded in 1870, and its main street still looks a lot like it did back in the early days.
The McHaffey Opera House, opened in 1891, was the town's center of culture. It was closed and in disrepair for many years, but has been lovingly restored and now the show is going on once again!
Have you visited Eldon's many historic sites? Feel free to reach out and let us know what you think of this unique small town in Iowa. You can find out more about the town on the official City of Eldon website, and visit the official Facebook page of Chommy's to find out what it's cooking up! For another unique small town in Iowa, why not take a weekend trip to Decorah? Don't forget to pack the road trip snacks!
