Iowa is home to several notable historic towns. From the first town in the state (Dubuque) to one of the oldest capital cities in the Midwest (Des Moines), we’ve got so much to show off! One tiny city gets overlooked in the shadow of the larger towns nearby, but if you’re a history buff, you’ll love a trip to Burlington, Iowa.
Throughout the town, you’ll find historic buildings standing much like they did when they were constructed! The old public library pictured below dates back to 1868.
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Snake Alley is the best known spot in Burlington. This windy alleyway is known as the World’s Most Crooked Street. In the spring and summer, it’s home to artists, cyclists, roller skaters and tourists.
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The Garret Phelps House, at the top of Snake Alley, has been turned into a museum celebrating the earliest days of this vibrant city.
Google Local / Natalie Wright
There are several gorgeous, historic churches throughout town. The First Methodist Episcopal Church, built in 1889, is one of the most impressive.
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The Burlington Police-Fire Station was built in 1907 and has been serving the city ever since.
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Up at Crapo Park, you’ll find the Hawkeye Log Cabin. The Cabin is now a historic site, and it was built in 1910 as a replica of early pioneer homesteads.
Google Local / Matt Oakes
Around Burlington, Iowa, you can step back in time to the earliest days of Iowa, while enjoying everything this river town has to offer.
Flickr / David Wilson
Check out the city’s website, here for more facts and tidbits about one of Iowa’s most historic communities.
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Google Local / Natalie Wright
Google Local / Matt Oakes
Flickr / David Wilson
If you can’t get enough of Iowa’s historic towns, read about The Small Town In Iowa With More Than 350 Historic Buildings.
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