Railfanning

Discover why Fort Madison, Iowa, is renowned as one of the premier destinations for rail enthusiasts world wide! Experience the thrill of witnessing 60-80 trains traversing the scenic Mississippi riverfront daily. With captivating views captured by the Virtual Railfan camera, every moment promises an unforgettable experience!

BIG NEWS!

Discover the Midwest's latest waterfront destination! Not only is this a great marina for boaters, but the views for railfanning are phenomenal!

Embark on a journey through time and discover the rich history of Southeast Iowa's depots. Join us for Southeast Iowa Depot Days, where you can visit 11 lovingly preserved depots nestled in the scenic rolling hills of our region.

Virtual Railfan

With over 39 million views since June of 2020, the Fort Madison Virtual Railfan cam has become one of the top viewing destination for railfans worldwide!

Why is Fort Madison so popular?

  • We see 60-80 locomotives pass through daily.

  • Our camera has a fantastic view of the Mississippi Riverfront.

  • Our viewers are able to watch not only trains, but passing barges, riverboats and leisure boats on the river.

  • View Amtrak’s Southwest Chief riders take a 7 minute stretch break trackside. This route travels from Chicago to Los Angeles and makes 2 stops a day in Fort Madison.

  • The 1927 Santa Fe Bridge is the world’s largest double deck swing span bridge and opens an average of 2,000 times per year for passing river traffic.

  • Visitors of the site can view Old Fort Madison, from which our community was named after. This replica offers a glimpse of life on the frontier from 1808-1813.

  • Our viewers can also watch migratory birds as they travel the Mississippi Flyway.

Fort Madison Railfans

  • “If train watching is in your blood, then Fort Madison has got to be on your list of places to visit. The high volume of train activity and the spectacular view of the Mississippi River make it worth the drive! Definitely our favorite railfanning destination.”

    Ronn & Paula V - Wisconsin

  • “Fort Madison is a great place because of it's location on the banks of the Mississippi, it's swing bridge and it's great variety and number of trains".

    Adrian W - England

  • "We've been to Fort Madison six times between October 2021 and September 2023. There are many trains every day including Amtrak's Southwest Chief, combined with multiple viewing spots, all of which are outstanding. The renovation of the old Santa Fe Depot is an added plus. When you combine all of that along with the area's history and outstanding views of the Mississippi River, and all the river traffic, the unique Santa Fe/BNSF swing bridge, the hospitality of the Kingsley Inn, great places to eat and the friendliness of all the people, Fort Madison is a "must go" place for rail fans."

    Bruce & Deb H - Wisconsin

  • "We like railfanning in Fort Madison for many reasons: being on the Mississippi River, the Kingsley Inn, the people we meet and best of all, there are 3 tracks with trains all day long!"

    Jule Sisco - Texas

  • "I'm an Italian railfan and knew of Fort Madison thanks to their Virtual Railfan cam during the covid period. I decided to visit in person because I saw a very great "railfan potential". I stayed in Fort Madison for 5 days in 2023 and had a very good time! Trains pass every 10 to 25 minutes with a multitude of locations for endless videos and photos opportunities. Don't forget to visit the Transportation Museum next to the station. I can say this town is perfect for railfans not only for the nice people, good food, a lot of places to sleep and to view the big Mississippi just in front of me...awesome! I'm planning to come back soon."

    Sergio V - Italy

  • "I love Fort Madison because it is not only a wonderful place to watch trains, but a great place to take a walk along the Mississippi River and watch trains (or boats) as you stroll. You can sit and relax on a park bench or have a thrill on the bridgewalk over the train tracks and watch the trains come through right below you. You can have a great meal at Jake and Walt's Fort diner. Then drinks at River Rocks to wind down a beautiful day. Top that all off by spending your night at the Kingsley Inn and try to get a river front room! Watching the Virtual Railfan camera is icing on the cake once you have been to Fort Madison. It will certainly bring back all the wonderful memories you made."

    Ann F - Texas