About Burlington, Iowa

Our unique community, with roots dating back to 1805, is located on scenic bluffs overlooking the Mississippi river. The Sac and Fox Indians called this area "Shoquoquon" meaning Flint Hills, because of its abundance of flint gathering sites. After the Black Hawk war of 1832, Iowa was open for settlement and Burlington became the first Iowa territorial Capitol in 1838. As the capitol, Burlington played an active role in the early development of the region. The pioneer settlement was able to attract water and rail traffic and was able to capitalize on these transportation assets to develop industry and community growth. That growth continues today.

Historic Burlington is now home to such notable attractions as Snake Alley, dubbed by Ripley's Believe It Or Not as the "crookedest street in the world." Located north of downtown is the Heritage Hill Historic District, which gives the impression of a Victorian neighborhood with an unusually large number of impressive church structures. Also visit the Des Moines County Historical Society's museums featuring Burlington area memorabilia.

The Burlington area looks forward to welcoming you.

This information was taken from the Burlington, Iowa Visitors Guide 2000 published by the Burlington Area Convention & Tourism Bureau. For more information regarding Burlington, please visit their Web Site at: Burlington Area Convention and Tourism Bureau

Local Links

Burlington, Iowa Public Library
Burlington Community School District
Burlington Notre Dame Catholic Schools
West Burlington Independant School District
Southeastern Community College
Steamboat Days
The Hawk Eye Newspaper
Burlington/West Burlington Chamber of Commerce