Welcome Center

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. Here barges were loaded with coal by means of a conveyor.  In the 1980’s, razing of this long unused building was avoided when a plan for an adoptive reuse was devised. The plan called for converting the building into a raised pavilion for picnickers and sightseers. Fundraisers were held in 1986 with the work being completed in 1987.  The State of Iowa announced plans for a Welcome Center in Burlington, and in 1988 the center opened here.  The following year the Iowa Legislature approved riverboat gambling and two years later, on May 10, 1991, the Emerald Lady Riverboat Casino, which had its homeport here, had its inaugural cruise.  The Port of Burlington Welcome Center achieved the State of Iowa’s Primary Status in 2001.  The Port of Burlington is now a hub of activity all year around.

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 for meetings and parties and a sheltered area for community events and others functions also are found here. An outdoor stage located at the south end of the building is the site of Burlington Steamboat Days American Music Festival, which attracts crowds in excess of one hundred thousand (100,000) visitors every third week in June.

Notice:  The Port of Burlington Welcome Center has been temporary moved to 404 Jefferson due to the flood.  Hours of operation are 9:00 to 4:30 Monday – Saturday.  For more information call 319-752-6365.