Where the Burlington Railroad crested the prairie between two great rivers — and a community put down roots that run just as deep.
In 1868, surveyors for the Burlington and Missouri Railroad drove stakes at the highest point on the line between the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. They called it Creston — the crest. That geographic identity became a civic identity: a city of grit, ingenuity, and deep community roots.
Frank Phillips, the oil baron who founded Phillips Petroleum, started his career here as a barber. The CB&Q Depot — saved from demolition by citizens — still stands. And today, 50+ murals painted on Uptown walls tell the story of a community proud of where it came from.
Read Our Full StoryFounded as a Burlington Railroad survey camp in 1868 — chosen for sitting at the crest between two great river basins.
50+ murals painted by local students and international artists, with 30 concentrated in a two-block stretch of Uptown.
Five lakes totaling 2,100+ acres of water within 25 miles, plus 6,000+ acres of parks, prairie, and wetlands.
Home to Southwestern Community College, serving students from across southwest Iowa.
From hometown chophouses to Mexican cantinas, old-school soda fountains to craft brews — Creston's dining scene runs deeper than you'd expect.
Creston's premier steakhouse. Steaks, seafood, pasta, chicken and pork at 119 N. Walnut. Rated tops in the area.
Beloved by locals for authentic Mexican dishes, generous margaritas, and fast, friendly service. A crowd favorite.
Creston's charming old-time soda fountain and espresso bar. Coffee, sweet treats, and that classic small-town atmosphere.
Outdoor adventures, rich history, and small-town festivals — Creston packs more in than you'd expect from a city of 7,500.
Iowa's 2nd largest balloon festival every September
5 lakes, 2,100+ acres of water & 6,000 acres of parks
50+ murals — 30 in Uptown's two-block stretch
Restored 1899 historic railroad depot
1890s village with 15 buildings, open summers
9-mile paved trail, McKinley Park to Green Valley
Craft brews in the heart of Creston
Legendary fireworks & street dance drawing thousands
Connecting Creston-area job seekers with local employers. Businesses can post open positions directly — reaching the right talent in Union County and surrounding areas.
The Greater Creston Chamber of Commerce serves as the voice for local business, connecting entrepreneurs, supporting growth, and advocating for a thriving Union County economy.
Creston, Iowa · Union County
Creston's business community — built on relationships, rooted in community.