Des Moines County, Iowa
Des Moines County is located in southeastern Iowa and takes its name from the Des Moines River, even though the river itself no longer flows through the county.
Burlington, the county seat, is a historic river town situated along the western bank of the Mississippi River. The city also holds an important place in Iowa history, having once served as the first capital of Iowa Territory.
One of Burlington’s most distinctive attractions is Snake Alley, famously known as the “Crookedest Street in the World,” winding up a steep hillside. Nearby, Starr’s Cave Nature Center features hiking trails, limestone bluffs, and scenic Flint Creek landscapes, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Des Moines County |
| County Seat | Burlington |
| Etymology | Named after the Des Moines River, which runs through the county |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Burlington, West Burlington, Danville, Mediapolis, Houghton, New London, Sperry |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 34, U.S. Highway 61, Iowa Highway 61 |
| FIPS Code | 19-057 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 423 square miles (land: 413 sq mi, water: 10 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Louisa County (North), Hancock County, Illinois (Southeast), Henderson County, Illinois (East), Lee County (South), Henry County (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Iowa |
| Coordinates | 40.81°N, 91.11°W |
| Major Landmarks | Snake Alley, Burlington’s Historic District, Great River Bridge, Dankwardt Park |
| Population | 40,000 |
