A reconstructed fort on the Mississippi, historic railroad and heritage sites, and trails through prairie, wetlands, and forest: Lee County offers a variety of discoveries. In Fort Madison, river history and a distinctive historic depot come together; in Keokuk and Montrose, further traces of the past sit alongside opportunities to observe nature.

Old Fort Madison and Its History

Old Fort Madison is a living history site on the banks of the Mississippi. The reconstructed complex includes a pentagonal layout, blockhouses, and barracks. Interpreters explain how soldiers lived there and defended the fort. Tours, reenactments, and educational programs are also part of the site. This offers a chance to explore both the structure and the daily life it was built to support.

Limited access is important to keep in mind when planning a visit: As of September 5, 2026, Old Fort Madison was closed to the public. Exceptions included visits on July 4 after the Charlie Korschgen Parade from 12 to 4 p.m. and after the Rodeo Parade from 12 to 5 p.m. Visits by appointment were also available until the site reopened to the public. Check the current visitor status before your trip.

Depot, Museum, and Local Traditions

The Historic Santa Fe Depot Complex is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is the only Mission-style depot in the state of Iowa. The complex houses the North Lee County Historical Society and the Fort Madison Amtrak ticket office. The Division Freight Office houses a local history museum. Its exhibits cover Old Fort Madison, Native Americans, the Tri-State Rodeo, and military service, among other topics.

The historic 1910 Santa Fe Depot is also a stop for the Southwest Chief, which connects Chicago and Los Angeles and stops in Fort Madison twice a day. If you are considering taking the train as part of your travel plans, check the schedule in advance. Another tradition, with a very different character, is the Mexican Fiesta: Fort Madison hosts it annually, and the celebration has been part of the local community for more than 90 years.

The Galland School is another historic discovery in the region. It was the first school in the area now known as Iowa. Together with the depot’s exhibits and the reconstructed fort, it offers different ways to explore history: through a schoolhouse, local collections, and a vivid depiction of soldiers’ lives.

Forest, Wetlands, and the Mississippi

Heron Bend is a 322-acre Lee County Conservation area between Fort Madison and Montrose. The area includes a nature center, and hiking trails wind through prairies, wetlands, and wooded areas. Heron Bend also provides boaters and anglers with access to the Mississippi. Its varied landscapes give a visit a different focus from the historic sites. Check current visitor information before you go.

Shimek State Forest is in southeastern Iowa, in Lee and Van Buren counties. This nature experience therefore extends beyond a single county. On the water at Lake Cooper River Run, other activities take center stage: visitors can enjoy jet skiing, tubing, water skiing, and kayaking through backwaters. Forest trails, wetlands, and water sports offer different ways to experience the landscape, rather than combining them into a single destination.

Keokuk, Montrose, and Wildlife Watching

In Keokuk, the George M. Verity River Museum is located in Victory Park on the riverfront. Keokuk National Cemetery is one of the 12 original national cemeteries designated by the U.S. Congress. In Montrose, the Iowa section of the Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail begins. At Linger Longer Park, the Pioneer Trail Memorial Pavilion features exhibits about “Poor Camp,” Nauvoo, and the Mormons’ journey to Utah.

For those interested in wildlife watching, the Eagle Watch Way offers a different perspective on the route between Keokuk and Montrose: The trail runs from one place to the other, and bald eagles can be observed in their natural habitat there on Saturdays and Sundays. History and birdwatching are distinct focuses here—a useful guide when choosing discoveries to suit your interests.

Discover more destinations: Keokuk, Fort Madison, Grundy County, Polk, Fremont County, Jasper County, Fayette County, Page County

View the broader travel overview: Iowa.