Booking Amtrak In Lowa..!!
Dreaming of a less hurried journey, where you can watch the Iowa landscape unfold outside your window without the stress of driving? Look no further than Amtrak! While Iowa isn’t a bustling hub of train lines, the legendary California Zephyr carves a scenic path right through the heart of the Hawkeye State, offering five convenient stops.
This guide will take you through each Amtrak station in Iowa, providing a snapshot of the town, what to expect at the station, and, most importantly, crucial distances to key Iowa cities and airports to help you plan your connecting travel.
The California Zephyr: Iowa’s Rail Link
The California Zephyr is one of Amtrak’s most iconic routes, connecting Chicago to Emeryville (San Francisco Bay Area) daily. It traverses stunning landscapes, including the Rocky Mountains and Sierra Nevada, but its journey through Iowa offers a unique glimpse into the Midwest’s rolling hills, farmlands, and charming small towns.
Let’s explore Iowa’s Amtrak stations!
1. Burlington, IA (BRL)
As the easternmost Amtrak stop in Iowa, Burlington offers a historic gateway to the state on the banks of the Mississippi River. Known for its famous Snake Alley (one of the crookedest streets in the world!), Burlington boasts a rich river town heritage.
- Station Type: Unstaffed platform with a shelter. There’s an historic depot building nearby, but it’s not currently used for passenger services. Be sure to arrive early and be visible to the train crew.
- Location: 300 S Main St, Burlington, IA 52601
| Destination (Key Cities/Airports) | Distance (Approx. Miles) | Estimated Drive Time (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Des Moines (DSM) | 160 | 2h 45m |
| Iowa City | 70 | 1h 15m |
| Cedar Rapids | 90 | 1h 30m |
| Davenport (Quad Cities) | 70 | 1h 15m |
| St. Louis, MO | 185 | 3h 0m |
| Des Moines International Airport (DSM) | 165 | 2h 50m |
| Quad Cities International Airport (MLI) | 75 | 1h 20m |
| Eastern Iowa Airport (CID – Cedar Rapids) | 95 | 1h 35m |
2. Mount Pleasant, IA (MTP)
A charming town nestled in Henry County, Mount Pleasant is perhaps best known for hosting the annual Old Threshers Reunion, an enormous festival celebrating antique farm machinery. It’s a quieter stop, offering a taste of classic small-town Iowa.
- Station Type: Unstaffed platform with an open-air shelter.
- Location: 200 S Main St, Mount Pleasant, IA 52641
| Destination (Key Cities/Airports) | Distance (Approx. Miles) | Estimated Drive Time (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Des Moines (DSM) | 150 | 2h 30m |
| Iowa City | 50 | 55m |
| Cedar Rapids | 70 | 1h 15m |
| Davenport (Quad Cities) | 90 | 1h 35m |
| Des Moines International Airport (DSM) | 155 | 2h 35m |
| Eastern Iowa Airport (CID – Cedar Rapids) | 75 | 1h 20m |
3. Ottumwa, IA (OTM)
Ottumwa serves as the county seat of Wapello County and is one of the larger cities on the Zephyr’s route through Iowa. It has a rich industrial history and offers more amenities than some of the smaller stops. Ottumwa is often a crew change point, meaning the train may have a slightly longer stop here.
- Station Type: Staffed station with a waiting room. This is a significant advantage, offering warmth, restrooms, and assistance if needed.
- Location: 210 W Main St, Ottumwa, IA 52501
| Destination (Key Cities/Airports) | Distance (Approx. Miles) | Estimated Drive Time (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Des Moines (DSM) | 85 | 1h 30m |
| Iowa City | 75 | 1h 20m |
| Cedar Rapids | 100 | 1h 45m |
| Ames | 110 | 2h 0m |
| Des Moines International Airport (DSM) | 90 | 1h 35m |
| Eastern Iowa Airport (CID – Cedar Rapids) | 105 | 1h 50m |
4. Osceola, IA (OSA)
Located just south of Des Moines along I-35, Osceola is the closest Amtrak stop to Iowa’s capital city. It’s a smaller community but offers convenient access for those heading to Des Moines or its surrounding areas. Don’t miss the charming historic depot!
- Station Type: Staffed station with a comfortable waiting room.
- Location: 100 S Main St, Osceola, IA 50213
| Destination (Key Cities/Airports) | Distance (Approx. Miles) | Estimated Drive Time (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Des Moines (DSM) | 40 | 45m |
| Ames | 80 | 1h 20m |
| Indianola | 25 | 30m |
| Des Moines International Airport (DSM) | 35 | 40m |
5. Creston, IA (CRN)
Our westernmost stop in Iowa, Creston, is nestled in Union County and has a rich railroad history itself, once being a significant division point for the Burlington Route. It’s a quiet, friendly town offering a peaceful glimpse into rural Iowa life.
- Station Type: Unstaffed platform with a shelter.
- Location: 116 W Adams St, Creston, IA 50801
| Destination (Key Cities/Airports) | Distance (Approx. Miles) | Estimated Drive Time (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Des Moines (DSM) | 70 | 1h 15m |
| Omaha, NE | 80 | 1h 20m |
| Council Bluffs | 75 | 1h 15m |
| Sioux City | 110 | 2h 0m |
| Des Moines International Airport (DSM) | 75 | 1h 20m |
| Eppley Airfield (OMA – Omaha, NE) | 85 | 1h 25m |
General Tips for Amtrak Travel in Iowa
- Booking: Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, on Amtrak.com or via the Amtrak app.
- Arrival Times: Amtrak trains, while generally reliable, can experience delays. Always check the train status before heading to the station. For unstaffed stations, plan to arrive at least 20-30 minutes before departure and ensure you are visible on the platform.
- Parking: All Iowa Amtrak stations typically offer free, convenient parking, though it may be limited at unstaffed stops.
- Baggage: Amtrak has generous baggage policies compared to airlines. Check Amtrak’s official site for current limits.
- Onboard Experience: The California Zephyr offers Coach seating, Roomette, and Bedroom accommodations. There’s also a Sightseer Lounge Car (highly recommended for scenic views!) and a Dining Car for meals.
- Connecting Travel: For unstaffed stations, arrange for rideshares, taxis, or family/friends to pick you up. While some smaller towns may have limited services, the distances provided above should help you plan.
- Westbound vs. Eastbound: Remember the Zephyr travels both directions. Confirm your departure time carefully, as it will be different for eastbound (towards Chicago) and westbound (towards California) trains.
Traveling by Amtrak through Iowa is more than just getting from point A to point B; it’s an experience. It’s a chance to slow down, observe the subtle beauty of the landscape, and connect with a different pace of travel. So, pack your bags, choose your station, and get ready to unlock the Hawkeye State by rail!