Iowa has a strong public transportation infrastructure, but most aren’t exactly thrilling experiences. The ferry in Guttenberg is an exception, as this unique boat ride takes you from Iowa to Cassville, Wisconsin across the Mississippi River. Not only will you get a stunning view, but you’ll also be sharing the boat with some unexpected passengers on a one-of-a-kind ride.

Located on the banks of the Mississippi, the Cassville ferry is one of Iowa’s most unique rides. It’s been operating since 1833 - when it began life as a rowboat.

Cassville Car Ferry/Facebook

It serves as a transportation system from the city of Guttenberg, Iowa to the village of Cassville, Wisconsin - and runs both ways.

Cassville Car Ferry/Facebook

But it’s also become a popular attraction for its roughly twenty-minute cruise with stunning views of the river.

Cassville Car Ferry/Facebook

The ferry takes vehicles of all kinds, with cars and vans being able to ride for only $15.

Cassville Car Ferry/Facebook

Larger vehicles can hitch a ride on the ferry in a double-space for a still-reasonable $15 - so don’t be surprised to see farm equipment.

Cassville Car Ferry/Facebook

Even tour buses often take this ride, with the fee being upwards of $50 for a full crowd of people.

Cassville Car Ferry/Facebook

But most people on board aren’t coming with vehicles - they’re passengers paying a rock-bottom fare of $2 for a walk-on ride.

Cassville Car Ferry/Facebook

The ferry can be summoned by a simple press of a button from whatever side it’s on, so it’s common for sightseers to take a nighttime round-trip.

Cassville Car Ferry/Facebook

The views of the Mississippi sunset are stunning at all times of year but especially during the summer.

Cassville Car Ferry/Facebook

This seasonal ferry runs limited hours after Labor Day, and it’s quickly become one of the best-hidden attractions in eastern Iowa.

Cassville Car Ferry/Facebook

Have you taken the twenty-minute ride across the Mississippi on the Cassville Car Ferry? Let us know all about your ride in the comments section. The ferry is seasonal and hours vary, so make sure to visit the Cassville website for details, and follow the ferry’s Facebook page for all the latest news.

Cassville Car Ferry/Facebook

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Address: Cassville Car Ferry, Oak Rd, Guttenberg, IA 52052, USA