Covered Bridges Scenic Byway
Dotting the classic Iowa landscape are the famed covered bridges of Madison County, immortalized in the novel, movie and musical, The Bridges of Madison County. At the county’s center is an authentic and thriving historic town square. Tour the birthplace of legendary actor John Wayne and the only museum in the world dedicated to The Duke. Or explore the Iowa Quilt Museum and quilt shops in the town where Fons & Porter’s Love of Quilting was created. Madison County was once home to George Stout, who rescued precious artworks during World War II, and it served as a starting place for famed horticulturist George Washington Carver. Experience life on the plains, and enjoy the abundant natural resources which made Madison County so desirable for settlers, at the Madison County Historical Complex or at one of the county’s many recreational parks.
The 82-mile-plus route focuses on the iconic and widely-known covered bridges located throughout Madison County, as well as our scenic natural areas, historical sites, cultural sites, and many other unique destinations.
Byway Highlights
- The world-famous covered bridges
- John Wayne Birthplace & Museum
- Iowa Quilt Museum
- Madison County Courthouse & Historic Retail District
- Madison County Historical Complex
- Historical figures, such as George Washington Carver and George Stout of The Monuments Men
- Pammel State Park and Middle River Water Trail
- Winterset City Park
- Wineries & Breweries
Ways to Enjoy Your Byway Adventure
Have fun while learning Madison County's rich stories. Download and print the digital copy of our Discovery & Activity Guide below or pick up a printed copy at the Madison County Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center!
Take a self-guided virtual tour of the Covered Bridges Scenic Byway! Download our free audio tour app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. More information at the link below.
Need help navigating the Byway? Looking for a particular attraction or type of business? Download the following map or pick up a printed copy at the Madison County Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center.
Want to save money at a number of attractions along our byway? We've partnered with Iowa's other byways and Travel Iowa to create the Take Time Iowa Byway Passport. It's free and will point you to some great deals along your journey - here and along other byways in Iowa!
