Burlington

Burlington is a county seat in Des Moines County in southeastern Iowa, situated about 185 meters above sea level on the west bank of the Mississippi. The town spreads across gentle slopes descending toward the water, while residential blocks and commercial zones extend farther inland.

The settlement began in 1833 as a trading post on the river and quickly became the seat of county government. In the 19th century steamboats and later railroad lines turned it into a key junction for goods and travelers moving between east and west.

The town carries a name that recalls a city in Vermont, chosen by early settlers honoring their eastern home. Today neighbors meet in cafés and shops along main streets that connect the river to residential districts farther inland.

The downtown core sits close to the river and is easy to explore on foot, while parking is available along main streets and in smaller public lots. The best time to visit is spring or autumn when weather allows comfortable walks along the waterfront.

Streets near the waterfront often run parallel to the river course and follow the natural curve of the Mississippi. In some places old railroad bridges still stand that once carried trains over the water and today serve as landmarks of transport history.

Location: Des Moines County

Inception: 1833

Elevation above the sea: 185 m

Website: https://burlingtoniowa.org

GPS coordinates: 40.80806,-91.11583

Latest update: December 5, 2025 16:36