Covered Bridges Scenic Byway - Winterset, Iowa

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The Covered Bridges Scenic Byway: A Journey Through History

For those seeking a unique and picturesque travel experience, the Covered Bridges Scenic Byway presents an exceptional opportunity. Located in Winterset, Iowa, this byway offers a captivating immersion into American history and rural beauty. The official address is 73 W Jefferson St, Winterset, IA 50273, United States, and visitors can reach the team by phone at Phone: 5154621185. A comprehensive resource for planning your visit is available at their website: Website: exploremadisoncounty.com.

What Makes it Special

The Covered Bridges Scenic Byway is primarily a historical landmark, meticulously designed to showcase the area’s remarkable collection of preserved covered bridges. These structures, built primarily in the 19th century, represent an ingenious feat of engineering and a tangible link to Iowa’s past. The byway focuses on providing a leisurely journey through Madison County, allowing visitors to appreciate the architectural beauty and the stories behind these enduring monuments. The route is thoughtfully planned to be easily navigable, offering a relaxed pace for exploration.

Location and Accessibility

Winterset, Iowa, serves as the central hub for the byway. The area surrounding Winterset is characterized by rolling hills, farmland, and a strong sense of community. The byway itself spans approximately 26 miles, offering a substantial amount of driving and walking opportunities. It's important to note that access to the bridges themselves is managed to preserve their condition. While the route is generally accessible, there have been some reported challenges for those with limited mobility, particularly in reaching the bridges directly. The byway is equipped with on-site services, including accessible parking and facilities. Wheelchair-accessible entrances and wheelchair-accessible toilets are available at key points along the route, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity. The byway is also considered good for kids, providing a wonderful educational and engaging experience for families.

Additional Information & Recommendations

• Visitor Information: The Visitor Information Center plays a vital role in the byway’s success. However, if the center is closed, the Madison County Winery is a valuable alternative, offering brochures and local insights.
• Points of Interest: Beyond the covered bridges, visitors can discover charming local shops, quaint restaurants, and a rich agricultural heritage.
• Maintenance & Condition: Some bridges have undergone restoration work, and occasionally, instances of graffiti – sometimes quite noticeable – may be observed.

Customer Feedback & Reputation

The Covered Bridges Scenic Byway consistently receives positive feedback. Currently, it boasts 55 reviews on Google My Business, with an average opinion of 4.7/5. This indicates a high level of satisfaction among visitors, with many praising the historical significance and the overall atmosphere of the area. The experience is often described as a peaceful and enjoyable escape from the everyday.

Final Recommendation

For anyone seeking a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and a relaxed travel experience, the Covered Bridges Scenic Byway in Winterset, Iowa, is highly recommended. We encourage potential visitors to explore the details and plan their trip fully through the exploremadisoncounty.com website. Don’t hesitate to contact them directly – their team is eager to assist you in creating a memorable journey through this remarkable piece of American heritage.

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👍 Reviews of Covered Bridges Scenic Byway

Carolyn R.

4/5

This is a self-guided tour, although you can hire a guide to ride in your vehicle. It's was disappointing not to be able to drive right up to the bridges or even over them. (I understand the reasoning behind that.) It's difficult for people with limited mobility to access them. We gave up after the third bridge. One bridge we walked over had a lot of graffiti (some of it rather crude). You could tell it had been painted over many times. If the visitor information center is closed, stop at the Madison County Winery, and the lovely people there will provide you with a brochure.

Sammijo H.

5/5

Map out the bridges! This is an all day adventure and something everyone should get to see! Beautiful and free (aside from gas)

Charles I.

5/5

Spent a day driving around seeing all the bridges of Madison County.it is so amazing to see the history and the places seen in the movie.the architecture of these bridges is amazing.plus driving to the different brides you get the opportunity to see small town America.

Nobody S.

3/5

We did some of this, all of the covered bridges are pretty, nice to visit, but some of them are down dusty dirt and gravel roads and this Iowa dust creeps into everthing.

Mike K.

4/5

It's the annual Covered Bridge Festival. Always the second full weekend in October (barring any pandemics). Come celebrate and visit the covered bridges, the heartiness of Madison County, visit John Wayne's birthplace and museum, check out the cider, wineries, and craft beers. Vendors, artisans, world renown quilters, the home of the Delicious apple, the history of Geo. Washington Carver, pioneering splendor, and a monumental tower in the woods await. Just 25 minutes SW of Des Moines. See you up town!

Dan J.

5/5

Always enjoy the Covered Bridges when we're in the area.....and don't forget the Winterset City Park & Clark Tower! The local State Park isn't too bad either. Beautiful area and always fun checking things out. Groth Greenhouse is worth your stop too!

Mike W.

5/5

Take the time to make this drive and check out some awesome history. Plus if you do it in the fall you will see some amazing colors.

Norman S.

2/5

Not listed on maps for directions. Unpaved gravel roads will require you to get a car wash after you are done.