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Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Freight House: A Landmark of Commerce

Explore a piece of Davenport's history at The Freight House, a beautifully preserved landmark with local shops and a taste of the city's heritage.

The Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Freight House, locally known as The Freight House, is a historic building in downtown Davenport, Iowa. Built in 1917, it stands as a testament to the city's vibrant railroad and commercial past. Today, it's home to local businesses, offering a taste of Davenport's community spirit.

A brief summary to Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Freight House

  • 102 S Ripley St, Davenport, Downtown Davenport, Iowa, 52801, US

Local tips

  • Explore the Freight House Farmers Market for local produce, baked goods, and crafts on Saturdays and Sundays.
  • Take a stroll along the Mississippi River Trail for scenic views of the river.
  • Visit the nearby Figge Art Museum to explore American, European, and Spanish art.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Freight House is located at 102 S Ripley St, in Downtown Davenport. From many downtown points, it is easily accessible by foot. From the RiverCenter, walk west along E 2nd St, then turn left onto S Ripley St. The Freight House will be on your left. Walking is free.

  • Public Transport

    Davenport Citibus provides public transportation in the city. Several routes serve the downtown area. From the Ground Transportation Center, take any Citibus route that services downtown Davenport. Check the Citibus website or app for specific routes and schedules. A single ride fare is $1.

  • Driving

    The Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Freight House is located at 102 S Ripley St, Davenport. From I-74, take the US-67 N/River Drive exit. Follow River Drive to S Ripley Street. Metered street parking is available, but limited. Parking ramps are located nearby, including the RiverCenter Ramp at 102 E 2nd St. Free on-street parking is available for two hours. Parking at nearby ramps costs $1 for two hours.

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Discover more about Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Freight House

The Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Freight House, often referred to as The Freight House, is a significant historical landmark in downtown Davenport, Iowa. Constructed in 1917 by the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad, also known as "The Milwaukee Road", the building addressed the surge in freight traffic before World War I. Its prime location on the levee near the Mississippi River and proximity to other railroad structures, like the Crescent Rail Bridge (1901) and Union Station (1924), were vital to its function. The Freight House played a crucial role in Davenport's commercial development, offering favorable eastern and western railroad freight rates, giving the city a competitive edge. The building's design facilitated easy cargo transfer between rail and road. The two-story eastern section housed offices, while the single-story western end served as warehouse space. After renovations in the 1990s, the Freight House has been repurposed for various uses, including a comedy club, sports bar, piano bar, and restaurant. Today, it houses several small businesses that sell local products, including a deli, grocery store, and brewery taproom. The Freight House was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985.

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