10 Ideal Factors To Do In Madison County

Even though the included bridges may well be the most important stars, there is much more to Madison County. Situated a lot less than 30 minutes west of Des Moines, Madison County has very long been dwelling to the famed protected bridges. But the area’s recognition exploded when the novel Bridges of Madison County was released by an Iowa author. Afterwards, the town was the internet site of a movie primarily based on the guide. And just occurred to star two of America’s favorite actors — Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep — so it’s effortless to see why people flock to the area for the bridges.

But Madison County — generally Winterset — has substantially more to supply. We love visiting the region, which is much less than 2 hours from our household in Omaha. It would make for a enjoyment working day excursion or an even extra pleasurable weekend getaway. We also observed ourselves largely intrigued in the bridges and their landscapes. On the other hand, in the course of a spring excursion to Winterset, we focused on everything not coated bridges.

When the stunning Madison County Courthouse is centrally found in the downtown sq. – and value the go to with its amazing design and heritage — buildings from the late 1800s and early 20th century are home to one of a kind stores, boutiques, and places to eat. From eclectic stores in downtown Winterset to a museum that explores the tale of quilts and 1 celebrating an American performing icon, you will have a excellent time checking out Madison County beyond the bridges.

Iowa Quilt Museum

My grandmother quilted. Her mattress often had a quilt lying on top rated. It is just one of the terrific memories I have of traveling to her as a baby. You can relive your individual reminiscences or learn something new with a stop by to the Iowa Quilt Museum. No matter if you quilt or appreciate artwork, the museum is house to reveals showcasing a piece of American background and culture. With displays altering each individual couple of months, you can see hundreds of years-old or modern day parts. You will be in awe of the expertise and talent demanded to generate wonderful quilts.

The Iowa Theater

There is nothing at all like looking at a film at an previous-fashioned theater. Originally a grocery retail outlet when it opened in 1899, the setting up was transformed into The Iowa Theater in 1914. The theater confirmed its to start with motion picture with sound in 1928. Even though The Iowa outlasted other rural theaters, it closed its doors in 2015. Reopened in 2017 as a non-gain business enterprise, the Iowa Theater reveals new motion pictures Thursday-Sunday. Wednesday is reserved for the classics, these kinds of as the authentic The Magnificent 7 or the 1980s strike The Breakfast Club. The theater is also out there for are living performances. Oh, and the popcorn. Is there something better than movie theater popcorn?

John Wayne Birthplace And Museum

The legendary motion picture star was known by Marion Morrison when he performed in the streets of Winterset. His father was a pharmacist at a downtown drug retailer, and his mother lifted the little ones at home. The spouse and children ultimately moved to Southern California. Acquiring his way to Hollywood, Marion Morrison turned John Wayne, and went on to surface in 180 motion picture and television productions. One of Hollywood’s most well known movie stars, Wayne gained an Academy Award for his role in Legitimate Grit.

Winterset celebrates its hometown star with the John Wayne Birthplace And Museum. Learn about his particular story and his Hollywood good results at the museum, which characteristics costumes and props from some of his flicks. You can also see a custom-constructed station wagon the Wayne loved ones used on spouse and children holidays. Excursions are hosted at his childhood dwelling, where by the house has interval-correct home furnishings and other products on exhibit.

Downtown Murals

Pop culture is the identify of the game in an alley on the east aspect of the downtown square. From a Winterset postcard mural and an American flag showcasing a bald eagle to Americana artwork and fairy tales, the Alley Mural Project operates about 100 ft long. The murals are popular attractions for selfies and group pics. A swing is properly painted to look like persons are sitting on it for images. The Winterset mural is excellent as a background for team photos, even though the American flag has been made use of as a backdrop for traditional auto photographs.

Distinctive Stores And Boutiques

From an previous-fashioned Ben Franklin retailer to eclectic dwelling decor and handmade lamps at Bridge 6 Design and style, the downtown sq. is household to stores you may possibly not expect to see in a smaller city. Mystical collectible figurines and household items emphasize a stop by to Harvest Creek, in which you can obtain faeries talking to dragons and pet-themed property decor. Tailor made-built jewelry is established from just about something at B. Shannon Types. Brooke Sulphin enjoys the obstacle of having any piece of every day use and turning it into a traditional necklace, ring, or bracelet. You under no circumstances know what you will find at White Cottage Market place, as I walked away with two antique cameras for a lot a lot less than I anticipated to fork out for a person. The store’s homeowners can also support people today with residence décor by repurposing antique items. With so several options, it’s easy to expend a day searching downtown.

Wine, Cider, And Beer

When it’s time for an grownup beverage break, Winterset has a handful of choices. Applying only Iowa-grown grapes for its award-successful wines, Lined Bridges Winery delivers an exceptional spot for a flight of white or pink wines. You can also enjoy a wine slushie in the course of your go to. If you want cider, head to Winterset Cidery. With an orchard on-site, Winterset Cidery raises additional than 30 versions of apples. Featuring many flavors each individual period, you can sample them with a flight of 4 ciders or take pleasure in a glass of your favorite. Positioned downtown, The Drift Taphouse serves Iowa-produced craft beer by the flight or glass. It also gives Iowa wines and liquors.

The Speckled Hen Farm Shop

A self-explained funky farm retailer, the Speckled Hen Farm Retailer phone calls a transformed puppy kennel dwelling. Offering Iowa-built products, these types of as peach butter, strawberry-rhubarb preserves, kitchen area things, add-ons and decor, and cute lawn decorations, the farm store is open up seasonally, from spring to slide. Located on a farm, Speckled Hen celebrates harvest time with its yearly Pumpkin Palooza, that includes gourds lifted on the farm. The retailer also hosts outdoor live shows in the course of the summer time.

George Washington Carver Park

Found following to a previous lodge where by he once worked, George Washington Carver Park honors the scientist credited with extra than 100 innovations. As soon as a resident of Winterset prior to turning into the 1st African American student at Iowa Condition University, Carver specialized in inventing solutions from peanuts, sweet potatoes, and soybeans. The park is a pleasant location to appreciate a break, with mosaic art on one particular wall and bouquets together the short pathway.

Guye Woods County Park

Beginning with a 100-foot extensive suspension bridge more than the North River, outside fanatics take pleasure in hiking together the river or other places about 93 acres of purely natural area at Guye Woods County Park. A “wilderness,” the park functions organic trails to maintain its flora and fauna. All through your hike, examine out the place for wildlife like deer and turkey. The spot is also primary for shoreline fishing.

Delirium Gallery

Who desires the huge city to take in gorgeous art? Showcasing modern day paintings and far more, Delirium Gallery delivers art aficionados a spot to love great art. Found on the primary floor of the previous Madisonian newspaper building, it seemingly combines historical past with present day art.

The place To Consume

Mi Pueblito

Mi Pueblito presents reliable Mexican eating at its downtown area. From tacos and burritos to sopas for dessert, the menu is outstanding.

Sports Website page

Household to appetizers named soon after Iowa sports legends, this sort of as Hayden Fries, as very well as exceptional burgers, hen sandwiches, and wings. You will also delight in the ambiance at Sports Web site.

The Drift

In addition to serving craft beer, The Drift also serves lunch and evening meal, with a menu showcasing appetizers, big salads, and sandwiches, like the Reuben.

Wherever To Stay

Accommodations

Protected Bridge Inn

The Protected Bridge Inn is a motel located along the highway to the Cedar Bridge. With no cost breakfast, the motel offers an fantastic place to remain.

Cobblestone Inn And Suites

Centrally located in Winterset, the Cobblestone Inn and Suites presents superb lodging, together with a business center and complimentary breakfast.

Airbnb

Winterset Wonderland

Positioned in the previous Madisonian newspaper building downtown, Winterset Wonderland is a two-bed room apartment higher than the Delirium Gallery. It is centrally found, just a block from points of interest these kinds of as the John Wayne Birthplace and Museum and the Iowa Quilt Museum.

Choose Lewis Dwelling

Located on the western edge of Winterset, the historic Choose Lewis Residence options a few bedrooms. The overall home is accessible for reservations.

Bed And Breakfast

Heavenly Habitat

A transformed church, Heavenly Habitat Bed and Breakfast Inn options three superbly decorated visitor rooms. Delight in discovering the place and retiring for the evening in your comfy home. Start off each and every working day with a homecooked breakfast.

Pro Tip: As with any place you system to stop by, guarantee you strategy a good deal of time to investigate Winterset when checking out the Protected Bridges of Madison County. Inquire any regional and they’ll inform you there is no cause to leave Winterset. It has everything you need to have — entertainment, wonderful foodstuff, lifestyle, architecture, record, and friendly persons.