Fort Madison Travel Guide

Discover all the amazing things to see, do, eat and experience in Fort Madison with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Fort Madison

Nestled in Southeast Iowa, Fort Madison is a charming city that boasts both natural beauty and historical significance. This small town is home to a wide variety of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures and delicious cuisine, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking for a unique vacation experience.

List of Places to Visit in Fort Madison

Fort Madison is a treasure trove of attractions that cater to all ages and interests. Here are some of the must-visit places in Fort Madison:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Old Fort Madison: Built-in 1808, Old Fort Madison is the oldest American military fort located on the Upper Mississippi River. Today, visitors can explore reconstructed buildings of the original fort and learn about the history of the area.
  • North Lee County Historical Society: Located in downtown Fort Madison, this unique museum showcases the history of Lee County and the surrounding region. The museum features exhibits on Native American history, early settlement, and local industry.
  • Rodeo Park: Rodeo Park is home to the Tri-State Rodeo, an annual event that draws visitors from all over the country. Visitors can also visit the Tri-State Rodeo Museum and learn about the history of the rodeo in Fort Madison.

Natural Attractions of Fort Madison: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Swan Lake: Just outside Fort Madison, Swan Lake provides visitors with a peaceful escape into nature. The lake is great for fishing, boating, and picnicking, and also offers a beautiful scenic view.
  • Riverview Park: Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, Riverview Park is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, and playground equipment for kids.
  • Sheaffer Memorial Golf Course: This challenging golf course is located on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River. The course provides golfers with stunning views of the river and surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fort Madison

Fort Madison offers several hiking and biking routes that allow visitors to experience the natural beauty of the area. Some of the best routes include:

  • Lost Ravine Trail: This 3-mile trail offers a moderate hike through a picturesque ravine. Visitors will enjoy exploring the natural beauty of the area, including a natural spring and small waterfall.
  • Santa Fe Trail: This 22-mile trail is perfect for biking enthusiasts. The trail follows the historic Santa Fe Railroad and offers stunning views of the countryside.
  • Fort Madison Riverfront Trail: This paved trail runs along the Mississippi River and offers great walking and biking opportunities. Visitors will enjoy the scenic views of the river and downtown Fort Madison.

Best Things to Do in Fort Madison: Activities and Tours

In addition to the cultural attractions and outdoor adventures, Fort Madison also offers a variety of fun activities and tours for visitors. Some of the best things to do in Fort Madison include:

  • Lee County Speedway: Racing fans will enjoy visiting the Lee County Speedway, which hosts races every Friday night throughout the summer.
  • Barn Quilts Tour: Fort Madison is known for its vibrant barn quilts, and visitors can take self-guided tours to explore the various designs and patterns.
  • Wine Tasting: Visitors can take a short drive to the nearby town of West Point to visit local wineries and enjoy wine tastings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fort Madison

To make the most of your trip to Fort Madison, here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay:

Day Activity
1 Explore Old Fort Madison and visit the North Lee County Historical Society
2 Take a hike on the Lost Ravine Trail and enjoy a picnic at Swan Lake
3 Bike the Santa Fe Trail and visit the Sheaffer Memorial Golf Course
4 Visit Riverview Park and enjoy the Mississippi River views
5 Take a wine tasting tour in West Point
6 Watch the races at the Lee County Speedway
7 Spend the day at Rodeo Park and visit the Tri-State Rodeo Museum

Food and Drink Scene of Fort Madison

Fort Madison has an array of delicious local cuisine and beverages that visitors must try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pork Tenderloin Sandwich: This classic Iowa dish is a must-try for visitors to Fort Madison. The dish consists of pork tenderloin, breaded and deep-fried, served on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and mayo.
  • Sweet Corn: Iowa is known for its sweet corn, and visitors to Fort Madison can enjoy this local delicacy at various restaurants and farmers’ markets.
  • Beef Pot Roast: Fort Madison’s beef pot roast is slow-cooked to perfection and served with carrots, potatoes, and gravy.

Local Beverages

  • Mississippi Mud: This locally brewed beer is a must-try for beer enthusiasts. The beer is made with dark-roasted malts and features a rich, chocolatey flavor.
  • Iowa Wine: Fort Madison is home to several wineries that produce high-quality wines from locally grown grapes.

Where to Stay in Fort Madison: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Visitors to Fort Madison have several options for accommodation, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the best places to stay in Fort Madison are:

  • Kingsley Inn: This historic hotel is located in downtown Fort Madison and offers luxurious accommodations and excellent amenities.
  • Super 8 Fort Madison: This budget-friendly hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms and a convenient location near downtown Fort Madison.
  • Scottish Inns Fort Madison: This cozy guesthouse offers a homey atmosphere and excellent service at an affordable price.

What to Buy in Fort Madison: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Fort Madison has plenty of unique souvenirs and local products that visitors can bring home as a reminder of their trip. Some of the best things to buy in Fort Madison include:

  • Barn Quilt Souvenirs: Visitors can purchase various barn quilt souvenirs, including t-shirts, magnets, and postcards.
  • Iowa Wine: Visitors can bring home a bottle of locally made Iowa wine to share with friends and family.
  • Mud Puddle Pottery: Mud Puddle Pottery is a local pottery studio that produces handmade pottery items, such as mugs and vases, that make great souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Fort Madison

Fort Madison is a friendly and welcoming community that values hard work, family, and tradition. Visitors to Fort Madison should follow the customs and culture of the area by being respectful and friendly to locals and participating in local events and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Fort Madison

The best time to visit Fort Madison is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and events. However, fall is also a great time to visit, as visitors can experience the beautiful fall foliage and cooler temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fort Madison

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Explore the natural beauty of the area.
  • Try the delicious local cuisine and beverages.
  • Participate in local events and festivals.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural areas.
  • Disrespect locals or their property.
  • Ignore traffic laws or safety guidelines.

Safety and Health

Safety in Fort Madison

Fort Madison is a safe city for visitors, but it’s always important to take basic safety precautions, such as locking car doors and securing valuables. Visitors should also be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity to local authorities.

Health in Fort Madison

Visitors to Fort Madison should take basic health precautions, such as using sunscreen and staying hydrated during outdoor activities. Visitors should also bring any necessary medications or medical supplies with them and be aware of any local health resources in case of an emergency.

Getting to Fort Madison: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors to Fort Madison have several transportation options, including:

Airports Near Fort Madison

  • Southeast Iowa Regional Airport: Located in Burlington, Iowa, this airport is approximately 30 miles from Fort Madison.

Bus Stations Near Fort Madison

  • Burlington Trailways: Located in Burlington, Iowa, this bus station offers daily service to major cities throughout the region.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Visitors can rent a car from one of the major car rental companies at the airport or in downtown Fort Madison.

How to Get Around in Fort Madison

Visitors to Fort Madison can get around by car, bike, or on foot. Car rentals are available at the airport and in downtown Fort Madison, and bike rentals are available at various locations in the city. Fort Madison also has a public transportation system that provides bus service throughout the area.

Where to Go Next from Fort Madison: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Fort Madison can enjoy day trips to nearby destinations, including:

  • Burlington, Iowa: Located just 20 miles from Fort Madison, Burlington offers a charming downtown area, historic sites, and great shopping and dining.
  • Nauvoo, Illinois: Just across the Mississippi River, Nauvoo is a historic town that boasts a rich history and cultural attractions.
  • Keokuk, Iowa: Located just 15 miles south of Fort Madison, Keokuk offers outdoor activities, historic sites, and unique local shops and restaurants.

Conclusion

Fort Madison is a hidden gem in Southeast Iowa that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and delicious cuisine. With so much to see and do, visitors to Fort Madison are sure to have an unforgettable vacation experience.