Railfanning 101

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!

Railfanning 2025

Brochure cover photo credit: Bruce Williams during 2024 River & Rail Weekend.

Amtrak’s Southwest Chief

Amtrak is a fantastic way to travel to Fort Madison! The Southwest Chief travels between Chicago and Los Angeles and stops in Fort Madison twice a day. Our depot is located in the historic 1910 Santa Fe Depot in downtown Fort Madison along the Mississippi Riverfront!

PHOTO GALLERY

BIG NEWS RAIL FANS!

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

Fort Madison finally has it’s own model train and supply store and it will be located at the entrance of the Santa Fe Depot Complex.

We have great railfans that visit us from all over the world. Visit Fort Madison and join the railfanning fun!

Fort Madison Railfan Comments!

  • “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

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    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

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.