Definitely get a room overlooking the trains and river. You will hear the 83 trains a day, but for some reason, they didn't seem to wake us up at night. The rooms are very clean and comfortable, and the breakfasts are wonderful. We were there for 5 nights and every breakfast had a different hot entree -- the cinnamon French toast made like a bread pudding was to die for. The Kingsley has a lot more charm and character than the Comfort Inn in Fort Madison and it's even less expensive.

My husband and I stayed for one night at the Kingsley Inn. This is a really nice hotel, with a wide variety of different rooms with different decors and amenities. The website shows each room and describes the room in detail, so you can pick what you want before you go. The hotel has an attached restaurant, Alpha's on the Riverfront, which is nothing fancy but you can get a decent meal there. There are many other restaurants within easy walking distance of the hotel, so this is a good location. The newly restored Fort Madison is across the street, which will be interesting to history buffs. This is a great weekend getaway for historians and train enthusiasts. As others have said, the trains are loud, so you might want to consider that when booking a room.

Stayed in a room overlooking the river and the train tracks. It was relaxing to sit with a glass of wine and watch the river and trains roll by. Well done renovation in a great setting. Convenient to have breakfast on the premises and nice to have included with the room rate. Staff was pleasant and helpful.

Get one of the rooms overlooking the mighty Mississippi and the reconstructed old fort. This is an unforgettable sight and worth it. If you do, of course, you should know that there are some 50+ trains per day (and night) passing in front of your window. However the windows have been cleverly equipped with a heavy sheet layer of Lexan/Acrylic and you won’t be bothered by the noise that much. The AC in the room is louder than a Yugo in reverse, maybe you want to turn the thermostat down. Other than these minor issues the rooms of this B&B are very tastefully decorated, bathrooms are clean and well equipped; the furniture consists of antique pieces mixed with functional items. Matrasses are good, a little on the soft side. Breakfast is served in two sittings, early and at 9 a.m.; the breakfast room is elegant however the food choices are somewhat limited. (I am an egg, bacon, and ham guy, sorry). All is of good quality, silverware is beautiful and the tables show real white table cloth. Very nice. Parking is on the premises in what appears to be a secure yard, entry is from the rear, and an elevator is available. What is also noticeable is that the Kingsley’s ground floor provides direct access to a restaurant: “Alpha’s”. Other restaurants are available in very short walking distance. This B&B is very recommended.