Listen to the stories of the Covered Bridges Scenic Byway in Madison County, Iowa, an 82-mile route where you’ll find famous Hollywood icons, historic heroes, and some of the world’s most innovative legends. From the romantic Bridges of Madison County to the gritty John Wayne to the inventive George Washington Carver, there’s a place and a story to entertain any traveler. On this route, you’ll experience life on the plains, and enjoy the abundant natural resources which made Madison County so desirable for settlers and continue to contribute to the scenic quality of this lovely area.
Step into the stories of authentic American heroes and cultural icons. The Covered Bridges Scenic Byway offers visitors a journey into iconic America. Dotting the classic Iowa landscape along the byway’s 82 miles are the famed covered bridges of Madison County, immortalized in the novel, movie and musical, "The Bridges of Madison County."
At the center of the county seat of Winterset stands a majestic limestone courthouse, surrounded by an award-winning historic retail district. Discover our impact on America’s history at the John Wayne Birthplace & Museum, the Iowa Quilt Museum, and the Madison County Historical Complex. You may even catch “The Duke” on the silver screen of the restored Iowa theater.
Winterset’s own George Leslie Stout, who rescued precious artworks from the Nazis during World War II, was memorialized in the book and movie The Monuments Men and now in a public art piece. Winterset also served as a starting place for famed horticulturist George Washington Carver, who is celebrated in a pocket park on the square.
Enjoy the abundant natural resources for kayaking, bicycling, camping, hunting, or fishing at one of the county’s many parks. Along the byway you’ll also find historic architecture, agricultural recreation, and rolling scenic views at every turn.
Points of Interest include:
• Six historic covered bridges
• John Wayne Birthplace & Museum
• Iowa Quilt Museum
• Madison County Courthouse & Historic Retail District
• Madison County Historical Complex
• Locations celebrating Influential historical figures, such as George Washington Carver, Henry Wallace, and George Stout
• Pammel State Park
• Winterset City Park including Clark Tower
