Be a Backyard Tourist!
Visiting Fort Madison:
We’ve all said it: “We should check that out sometime.” And then… we don’t. Life gets busy. Netflix is clingy. And somehow, we know more about attractions three states away than the ones in our own backyard.
So here’s your friendly, sun-soaked reminder: this summer, make sometime happen. Fort Madison and our neighbors in Lee County (and just across the river) are packed with unique experiences, quirky museums, live music, festivals, and hands-on fun that are just a few minutes from your front door. You don’t need a suitcase—just a little curiosity and maybe a reusable water bottle.
History You Can Touch (Literally)
Kids playing and learning at the same time!
Let’s start where the trains come in—at the CBQ Depot Museum, run by the North Lee County Historical Society. This isn’t one of those “do not touch” spots. It’s hands-on, with something for all ages. Try on a conductor’s jacket, climb into a vintage rail car, or pretend you're dispatching trains across the Midwest. Kids love the tactile exhibits, and adults will get hooked on the stories and railroad artifacts from Fort Madison’s golden era of rail.
Down the street, Sheaffer Pen Museum is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday. Inside, you’ll learn how Fort Madison became a hub of fine writing instruments—home to the globally known Sheaffer Pen brand. Exhibits include rare pens (some worth more than your car), vintage advertising, and design innovations that shaped how the world wrote letters and signed checks before everything went digital.
It’s like stepping into Mad Men—but with better handwriting.
Midweek Magic: Nauvoo Neighbor Night
If you’ve never seen the Nauvoo Pageant, now’s your chance. This Wednesday night, just across the bridge in Illinois, you’ll find Nauvoo Neighbor Night—a delightful fusion of county fair games and powerful storytelling.
Families can try pioneer-era games, crafts, and demonstrations in a festive atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time. As the sun sets, the live pageant kicks off with music, dancing, and scenes from Nauvoo’s early history that are surprisingly moving—even if you don’t usually go for “historical drama.” And the best part? It’s all free. Bring a lawn chair, some bug spray, and your sense of wonder.
Fort Madison After Five
Looking for nightlife with a hometown vibe? Fort Madison has live music and open mic nights on Mondays, with rotating lineups of local musicians, comedians, and poets. Check out:
LULAC Club
Boozy Rae’s
Turnwater
Vinnie’s Longbranch
Tena’s Tap
Stumble In
Each spot has its own vibe, from laid-back patio scenes to buzzing bar crowds. You never know when you'll catch the next big voice—or that neighbor who’s secretly a killer blues guitarist.
Summer Markets & Saddle Shows
Mark your calendar for Wednesday, July 31, when the final Downtown Summer Market takes over Avenue G. It’s part open-air shopping spree, part community hangout, with food trucks, handmade goods, live entertainment, and good small-town energy.
Want something with a little more horsepower? Swing by a Fort Madison Saddle Club Open Show this summer and watch riders and their horses compete in events from barrel racing to trail classes. Even if you’re not a cowboy or cowgirl yourself, it’s a fun (and free!) way to soak in the local western scene.
Hidden Gems Worth the Drive
Donnellson’s Richard Proenneke Museum, tucked inside the local library, is a must for nature lovers. Proenneke, an Iowa-born carpenter, lived alone in the Alaskan wilderness for 30 years—and filmed every step. His hand-built cabin and resourceful, peaceful lifestyle are documented through photos, videos, and real artifacts. He’s like a cross between Bob Ross and Bear Grylls, and his story is strangely calming and inspiring all at once.
Want even more road trip ideas close to home? Add these to your list:
Old Fort Madison – Step into 1808 at the first U.S. military fort on the Upper Mississippi.
Riverview Park – Pack a picnic and watch barges roll by under the swing-span bridge.
Wrap It Up with Ice Cream, Please
No summer day trip is complete without a treat. Stop by Putt-A-Round or Hall’s Ice Cream for a cone, a sundae, or the flavor of the day!. Calories don’t count when you're supporting local business, right?
Still Need More Ideas? We’ve Got a Blog for That.
Whether you’re planning a date night, looking for something free to do with the kids, or need a reason to wear those walking shoes, we’ve got you covered. Head to our Itineraries page or event page for insider tips, and quirky finds that even lifelong locals haven’t tried yet.
Let this be your sign: put the remote down, step outside, and start exploring. You’ll never look at Fort Madison the same way agaipage n.
