Old Fort Madison: A Glimpse into Frontier Life
Explore frontier life at Old Fort Madison, a reconstructed military outpost on the Mississippi River in Iowa.
Step back in time at Old Fort Madison, a reconstructed military outpost from the early 19th century. Explore the barracks, blockhouses, and palisade walls, and witness living history demonstrations that bring the War of 1812 era to life.
A brief summary to Old Fort Madison
- 716 Riverview Dr, Fort Madison, Iowa, 52627, US
- +1319-372-6318
- Visit website
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Check the Old Fort Madison website for special events and reenactments to enhance your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ground.
- Visit during the warmer months for the full living history experience.
Getting There
-
Walking
From downtown Fort Madison, head east on Avenue G towards the Mississippi River. Turn left onto Riverview Drive. Old Fort Madison will be on your right, a short walk along the riverfront. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes.
-
Driving
From Highway 61, follow the signs for downtown Fort Madison. Turn east onto Avenue G and then left onto Riverview Drive. The fort will be on your right. Parking is available near the entrance. Limited parking is available, especially during special events.
Discover more about Old Fort Madison
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
North Lee County Historical Society
0.3 km
Explore the rich history of Fort Madison at the North Lee County Historical Society, where the past comes alive through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
Historic Iowa State Penitentiary
1.3 km
Discover the intriguing past of the Historic Iowa State Penitentiary, one of America's oldest prisons, nestled in Fort Madison, Iowa, with captivating stories and stunning architecture.
Historic Nauvoo State Historic Site
9.7 km
Explore the Historic Nauvoo State Historic Site, where history unfolds through preserved landmarks and immersive reenactments in charming Illinois.
Historic Nauvoo Visitors' Center
10.7 km
Discover the rich history and culture at the Historic Nauvoo Visitors' Center, a must-visit landmark in Nauvoo, Illinois that celebrates the legacy of early Latter-day Saints.
Nauvoo Historic Sites
10.7 km
Explore Nauvoo Historic Sites for a journey through 19th-century American history, filled with stories, architecture, and scenic landscapes.
Historic Nauvoo
10.9 km
Discover the rich history of Nauvoo, a historical landmark that brings the 19th-century community of Latter-day Saints to life through engaging experiences.
Wagon Depot
11.4 km
Discover the rich history of the Wagon Depot in Nauvoo, a vital hub for early settlers and a must-visit historical landmark.
Historic Nauvoo Post Office
11.6 km
Explore the Historic Nauvoo Post Office, a 19th-century landmark that brings the spirit and stories of early American life to life.
Joseph Smith Historic Site Visitors' Center
11.8 km
Explore the rich history and spiritual significance of Joseph Smith at the Visitors' Center in Nauvoo, Illinois, a landmark for cultural and historical discovery.
Nauvoo House
12.0 km
Explore the historic Nauvoo House, where stories of the past come alive amidst beautiful architecture and engaging tours in Nauvoo, Illinois.
Pioneer Memorial and Exodus to Greatness
12.2 km
A tribute to the Mormon pioneers' courageous journey, featuring a memorial and monument in Nauvoo, Illinois.
Geode Lake
22.2 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Geode Lake in Iowa, a stunning natural retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Iowa's First Grist Millstone
24.2 km
Explore Iowa's First Grist Millstone in Burlington, an iconic historical landmark showcasing the state's rich milling heritage.
Perkins Park
24.9 km
Experience the natural beauty and recreational bliss of Perkins Park, a top attraction in Burlington, Iowa, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts.
Mary Darwin House
25.4 km
Explore the historical charm of Mary Darwin House in Burlington, Iowa, and uncover the rich stories of the past in a beautifully preserved setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Geode State Park
22.4 km
Explore Iowa's natural beauty at Geode State Park: hiking, fishing, camping, and a sparkling lake await in this southeast Iowa treasure.
Crapo Park
24.0 km
Discover the natural beauty and recreational charm of Crapo Park in Burlington, Iowa, a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
Dankwardt Memorial Park
24.2 km
Explore the natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere of Dankwardt Memorial Park, an essential stop for nature lovers in Burlington, Iowa.
Hawkeye Log Cabin
24.3 km
Discover the rich history of Burlington at the Hawkeye Log Cabin, an enchanting museum showcasing early American life.
Our Lady of Grace Grotto
25.4 km
Discover tranquility at Our Lady of Grace Grotto in West Burlington, Iowa—a serene retreat for reflection and spiritual connection amidst stunning landscapes.
FunCity Resort
25.9 km
Discover endless fun at FunCity Resort in Burlington, Iowa - the ultimate amusement center for families and thrill-seekers alike!
FunCity Entertainment Complex
26.0 km
Explore the ultimate fun destination in Burlington, Iowa, with thrilling water rides, bowling, gaming, and more at FunCity Entertainment Complex.
Catfish Bend Casino
26.0 km
Discover the excitement of gaming and entertainment at Catfish Bend Casino in Burlington, Iowa, a top destination for tourists seeking fun and adventure.
Garrett-Phelps House Museum
26.8 km
Discover the rich history of Burlington, Iowa at the Garrett-Phelps House Museum, a charming attraction showcasing local heritage and intriguing exhibits.
Des Moines County Heritage Center Museum
26.9 km
Discover the captivating history of Burlington at the Des Moines County Heritage Center Museum, where the past comes alive through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
George M. Verity Riverboat Museum
27.1 km
Explore the George M. Verity Riverboat Museum in Keokuk, Iowa, and uncover the fascinating history of riverboats and their role in American culture.
Mosquito Park
27.5 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Mosquito Park in Burlington, Iowa—a perfect city park for relaxation, family fun, and scenic views.
Starr's Cave Nature Center
28.6 km
Discover the beauty of Iowa's natural landscapes at Starr's Cave Nature Center – a serene paradise for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Iliniwek Village State Historic Site
30.1 km
Explore the Iliniwek Village State Historic Site, a beautiful blend of Indigenous heritage and stunning natural landscapes in Missouri.
Battle of Athens State Historic Site
33.8 km
Discover the rich history and scenic beauty of the Battle of Athens State Historic Site in Missouri, a perfect blend of nature and heritage.
Essential places to dine
Lambo's at Spirit Hollow
20.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine with stunning views at Lambo's at Spirit Hollow in Burlington.
Stonegate Grill
22.8 km
Discover Stonegate Grill: A top-rated restaurant in Burlington offering delicious American cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Buffalo Wild Wings
23.6 km
Indulge in mouthwatering chicken wings at Buffalo Wild Wings while enjoying your favorite sports events in Burlington, Iowa.
Pancheros Mexican Grill - Burlington
23.7 km
Experience the best of Mexican cuisine at Pancheros Mexican Grill in Burlington - where every meal is made fresh just for you!
Happy Joe's Pizza & Ice Cream - Burlington
23.7 km
Discover family-friendly dining at Happy Joe's Pizza & Ice Cream in Burlington - where delicious pizza meets delightful desserts.
Doris' Tavern
24.0 km
Experience delicious food and vibrant entertainment at Doris' Tavern in Burlington - your go-to spot for fun nights out with friends.
Mazzio's
24.3 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Mazzio's in Burlington - where pizza dreams come true with every slice!
China House
24.6 km
Discover authentic Chinese flavors at China House in West Burlington – where every dish tells a story.
Applebee's Grill + Bar
24.7 km
Experience American dining at its best at Applebee's Grill + Bar in Burlington - where comfort food meets great company.
El Toro
24.7 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at El Toro in Burlington; where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.
Queso's Burlington
24.9 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Queso's Burlington - where vibrant flavors meet family-friendly fun.
FAMILY BUFFET
24.9 km
Experience an endless array of delicious dishes at Family Buffet in Burlington - where flavor meets affordability in every bite.
Joe's Inn
25.0 km
Discover Joe's Inn: A beloved grill in Burlington offering hearty meals and a lively bar atmosphere perfect for every traveler.
Pizza Ranch
25.0 km
Discover the ultimate buffet experience at Pizza Ranch in Burlington - where pizza meets crispy chicken in a family-friendly setting.
Gator's Grill & Spirits
25.0 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Gator's Grill & Spirits in Burlington - where flavor meets fun!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Country Treasures
14.5 km
Explore Country Treasures in Burlington, Iowa, for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the essence of Iowa's rich heritage.
West Burlington Shopping Center
24.1 km
Explore West Burlington Shopping Center for a unique shopping experience, local dining, and vibrant community events in the heart of Iowa.
Target
24.4 km
Explore Target in West Burlington for a diverse shopping experience featuring clothing, electronics, furniture, and more in a welcoming atmosphere.
Goodwill Burlington
24.4 km
Explore unique finds and support community initiatives at Goodwill Burlington, your go-to thrift store in Iowa for sustainable shopping.
Westland Mall
24.6 km
Explore Westland Mall in West Burlington, Iowa – a shopping haven with unique gifts and popular stores for every visitor's delight.
Holstein's Variety Store
24.6 km
Explore Holstein's Variety Store in West Burlington, Iowa, a unique shopping destination with an eclectic selection of handbags, toys, and knives.
Maurices
24.6 km
Explore Maurices in West Burlington for stylish women's clothing and plus-size apparel in a welcoming atmosphere.
Melissa's
24.7 km
Explore Melissa's, a premier women's clothing store in West Burlington, IA, offering stylish apparel and personalized shopping experiences.
Kohl's
24.8 km
Explore Kohl's in West Burlington, Iowa – a department store treasure trove with unbeatable prices on fashion, home goods, and more.
Marshalls
25.1 km
Explore the best in discounted fashion and home goods at Marshalls in Burlington, Iowa, where great style meets unbeatable prices.
The Furniture Store
25.2 km
Discover quality furniture and unique finds at The Furniture Store in Burlington, Iowa, where style meets affordability in every piece.
JOANN Fabric and Crafts
25.4 km
Discover a world of creativity at JOANN Fabric and Crafts, your ultimate destination for fabrics, art supplies, and crafting essentials in Burlington, Iowa.
Dolores' Resale Shop
25.4 km
Explore Dolores' Resale Shop in Burlington, Iowa, for unique second-hand clothing and accessories that celebrate local culture and sustainable shopping.
Krafty Kids
25.4 km
Explore Krafty Kids in Burlington, Iowa, your go-to consignment shop for unique children's clothing and toys, promoting sustainable shopping and community support.
New To You Resale Shop, LLC.
25.7 km
Explore Burlington's New To You Resale Shop for unique finds and vintage treasures in the heart of Iowa.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Beat Tavern
24.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Beat Tavern, Burlington's go-to bar for cocktails, local beers, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Summer Street Station
25.0 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Summer Street Station, Burlington’s bar hotspot for craft drinks, friendly service, and vibrant nightlife.
Doc's
25.5 km
Discover the lively spirit of Burlington, Iowa at Doc's Bar, where great drinks and good times await in a welcoming atmosphere.
Farney's on Jefferson
26.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Farney's on Jefferson in Burlington, Iowa – a local bar offering delicious drinks and friendly service.
Paddlewheel Lounge
26.6 km
Discover Paddlewheel Lounge, a charming riverside bar in Burlington offering a vibrant atmosphere, refreshing drinks, and live entertainment.
La Boheme
26.6 km
Discover La Boheme, Burlington's vibrant bar with a cozy atmosphere, great drinks, and exceptional service for an unforgettable night out.
Corked 101
26.6 km
Discover the charm of Corked 101, Burlington's premier wine bar, where quality wines and cozy ambiance create unforgettable experiences.
Valley Monster Pub
26.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Burlington at Valley Monster Pub, a local gem known for its extensive drink selection and inviting atmosphere.
Night Cap
26.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Night Cap, Burlington's premier bar offering craft cocktails, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Home Base Bar
88.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Home Base Bar in Muscatine, where relaxation and camaraderie await.
Mike's Hilltop Tap
90.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and entertainment at Mike's Hilltop Tap in Muscatine, Iowa, where every night is a celebration.
Pr%f Social
90.8 km
Discover the essence of Muscatine nightlife at Prüf Social, a cocktail bar offering creative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for all.
The Pearl Martini Bar & Lounge
90.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Pearl Martini Bar & Lounge in Muscatine, where delicious cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.
Flaming Embers
90.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Flaming Embers, a lively bar in Muscatine, IA, offering great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Hubble's Tap
91.0 km
Discover Hubble's Tap in Muscatine, IA – an energetic bar and lounge offering delicious pizzas, pool games, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.