Discover: the sights
Burlington, Iowa
Snake Alley
The physical limitations and steep elevation of Heritage Hill inspired the construction of Snake Alley in 1894. The street was completed in 1898, but was not originally named Snake Alley, as it was considered part of North Sixth Street; some years later, a resident noted that it reminded him of a snake winding its way down the hill, and the name stuck.
The alley originally provided a shortcut from Heritage Hill to the business district between Fifth and Sixth Streets. Bricks were laid at an angle to allow horses better footing as they descended. Snake Alley remains a one-way street, with all traffic heading downhill.
Between Fifth and Sixth Streets downtown
Port of Burlington
The Port of Burlington building was dedicated in October 1928 as Burlington's Municipal River Terminal. It was constructed on pylons, the same as a bridge, allowing the river to flow under it.
The Port of Burlington Welcome Center has vast amounts of information on this area as well as the rest of the state. A scenic plaza area on the east side of the Port showcases the Mississippi riverfront. A community room, sheltered area and an outdoor stage are available to members of the community.
Address: 400 Front Street, Burlington, Iowa Hours: Monday-Sunday 9-4:30
Des Moines County Heritage Center
The Des Moines County Heritage Center opened in 2009 in the former Burlington Public Library which was built in 1898. The building features a glass floor in the second floor rotunda.
There are nine galleries on three levels in the Heritage Center, each one addressing a different aspect of local history.
Admission to The Heritage Center is free to members; other adults, $6; children, $3.
Address: 501 N. Fourth, Burlington, Iowa Telephone: (319) 753-2449
Web: www.dmchs.org
Hawkeye Log Cabin
The Hawkeye Log Cabin was originally built in 1910 as a meeting place for the Hawkeye Natives, a club of those who had lived in Iowa fifty years or more.
The members constructed the cabin in the "old" way with hand-hewn logs to honor their past and attest to their pioneer skills.
Address: South Main Street in Crapo Park
Capitol Theater
Built in 1937, the Burlington Capitol Theater shut its doors in 1977 and was soon in danger of demolition. Local organizations moved to add the Capitol to the National Historic Register and raised funds for rennovation.
Renovation of the theater was completed after 35 years of closure and it reopened in June of 2012 with two days of celebration. It currently hosts film screenings and live events.
Address: 211 N. Third, Burlington, Iowa Telephone: (319) 237-1099
Art Guild of Burlington
The Art Guild of Burlington promotes arts education, supports local artists, and the artists' community through classes, exhibitions and opening receptions, their monthly newsletter and annual events such as the Snake Alley Art Fair. Their gallery features new exhibits monthly and the work of many Iowa artists is available in the Gift Shop.
Address: 301 Jefferson St., Burlington, Iowa Telephone: (319) 754-8069
Fun City
FunCity features many attractions for the whole family to enjoy. Many vacation resorts say they offer something for all ages but FunCity packs in more FUN for EVERYONE! Kids can choose from over 100 interactive arcade games, kiddie go-carts and multi-level laser tag arena. FunCity's got it all!
Address:3001 Winegard Dr Burlington, Iowa Telephone:(319)753-2946
Web: Fun City
Catfish Bend Casino
Catfish Bend Casino offers a unique gaming experience that you will not soon forget. The casino floor features almost 700 slot machines, 18 table games, luxurious LIVE poker room and VIP lounge! Catfish bend also provides complimentary shuttle service.
Address:3001 Winegard Dr Burlington, Iowa Telephone:(319)753-2946
Web: Catfish Bend