Burlington Iowa is a picturesque city situated on the bluffs overlooking the grand Mississippi River. It is located in the southeastern corner of the state near the borders of Illinois and Missouri. There is abundant parkland and the Mississippi provides a host of activities, including sailing, canoeing, fishing, and many others. The city is also home to several notable buildings and landmarks on the National Register of Historic Places, as well as plenty of options in arts and entertainment, dining, and shopping. Burlington Iowa tourism offers activities and attractions that people of all ages can enjoy.

Anyone who visits Burlington Iowa will tell you that the cityscape, which is dominated by the river, is breathtaking. There is parkland set aside in every neighborhood of the city and several large parks. Crapo Park (and it should be noted that it is pronounced cray-po) and Arboretum is perhaps the most impressive of them all. This particular park affords amazing vistas of the river and is without question one of the best places for photography in the entire city. Dankwardt Park and Perkins Park are two more places where residents and visitors of Burlington Iowa engage in all kinds of outdoor sports and activities. Mosquito Park is another gorgeous destination that also provides brilliant views of the Mississippi River.

Snake Alley is one of the top attractions in Burlington. It owns a record for being the “Crookedest Street in the World,” according to Ripley’s Believe It or Not. Snake Alley is situated in between Washington Street and Columbia Street and features all kinds of shops, places to eat, and a water park. Fun City is a large theme and water park located in Burlington that features a virtual, 3D roller coaster, water rides, a laser tag arena, and bowling alley. The Wildlife Lakes Elk Farm may be a nice alternative for those families looking to spend a day of educational fun in Burlington. You can actually visit the farm and work the land, seeing just what it is like to live the lifestyle of a farmer in Iowa. The bonus is that it happens to be on an elk farm, which is not your typical farm to be sure.

Iowa Map

Nightlife is also an appeal of Burlington, as there are many bars, fine restaurants, and even a casino. Those who like to enjoy dining will discover a range of possibilities, including casual eateries and upscale restaurants with views of the river. There are also a variety of shops, boutiques, and markets in Burlington.

Much like Iowa events and festivals, the annual events calendar is always full. Burlington Steamboat Days takes place in the middle of June and features a broad selection of music, including well-known regional and national entertainers, a parade, fireworks, concessions, and games. The Southwest Iowa Wine and Beer Festival is a must for anyone visiting Burlington during the end of August and Heritage Fest at the end of September brings yet more music, food, and exhibits to town.

There are a number of hotels and motels in the city of Burlington Iowa and several alternative options like camping in any number of destinations around this area.