Personal Guided Tour of the Covered Bridges of Madison County

Winterset, US
91% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (57 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Private tour
  • inclusion
    Local guide

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Transportation to/from attractions
  • exclusion
    Gratuities

Meeting Point

Your guide will meet you at the Madison County Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center.

Meeting point

73 E Jefferson St, Winterset, IA 50273 , United States

End point

End Point

Your guide will meet you at the Madison County Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center.

Meeting point

73 E Jefferson St, Winterset, IA 50273 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Madison County Chamber of Commerce & Welcome Center

Meet your tour guide at the Welcome Center, located on Winterset's courthouse square. Your guide will tell you briefly about the history of Winterset and Madison County, and the 1876 limestone courthouse at the town's center.

Duration 10 minutes
2
Roseman Bridge

Explore the Roseman Covered Bridge, one of two bridges featured in the movie "The Bridges of Madison County", starring Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep. Built in 1883, the Roseman spans Middle River and is thought by some to be haunted. The Roseman is a perfect example of the flat-roofed covered bridges that are unique to Madison County.

Duration 30 minutes
3
Cutler-Donahoe Bridge

One of the six remaining covered bridges of Madison County, the Cutler-Donahoe was moved to City Park in Winterset in 1970 on its 100th birthday. City Park also features an English hedge maze, a stone bridge (featured in the movie "The Bridges of Madison County"), and one of Iowa's often cited hidden gems, Clark Tower (a three-story stone monument that resembles a castle).

Duration 20 minutes
4

Holliwell Bridge

Explore the Holliwell Covered Bridge, the second of the two bridges featured in the movie "The Bridges of Madison County", starring Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep. Built in 1880, it is the longest of Madison County's covered bridges, spanning 110 feet over Middle River. Be sure to view this beautiful bridge from the river bank.

Duration 20 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Be prepared for uneven surfaces at the sites visited which may be difficult for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
  • Additional information
    Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Must have a proper seat and seat belt available for your tour guide
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    This tour takes place using the traveler's own vehicle and gas.
  • Additional information
    Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Wear and tear on the vehicle is not the responsibility of the tour guide
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
Provided by Madison County Chamber of Commerce

What our experts say

  • icon
    Start at the Welcome Center for tips.
  • icon
    Don't miss the haunted Roseman Bridge.
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    Bring a camera for great photo ops.
  • icon
    Visit Clark Tower in City Park nearby.
  • icon
    Wear comfortable shoes for uneven paths.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Embark on a captivating journey through the picturesque county of Madison, Iowa, as you explore its renowned covered bridges on a Personal Guided Tour. These iconic structures served as the inspiration and setting for the beloved novel and film "The Bridges of Madison County," and now you have the chance to immerse yourself in their rich history and charm.

What to expect?

During this two-hour tour, you can anticipate an unforgettable experience delving into the construction, anecdotes, and significance of these quaint covered bridges. Your knowledgeable guide, a resident of Madison County, will accompany you as you visit three of the county's most cherished bridges. Prepare to be enchanted by the remarkable architecture and the delightful stories surrounding these iconic landmarks. Capture plenty of photographs as you walk through the bridges, feeling the echoes of the past beneath your feet.

Who is this for?

This Personal Guided Tour caters to anyone with a curiosity for history, a love of nature, and a passion for exploring hidden gems. Whether you are a fan of "The Bridges of Madison County," an architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique and immersive experience, this tour promises to captivate and educate. Regardless of age or background, you will find joy in discovering the secrets these covered bridges hold.

Why book this?

By booking this tour, you open the door to an extraordinary adventure, where you'll be transported back in time, immersed in the elegance of the late 19th century. Enjoy the rare opportunity to explore the covered bridges that served as the backdrop for a timeless love story. With an expert guide by your side, you'll gain insider knowledge about the construction and history of these bridges, as well as fascinating local anecdotes. This tour allows you to appreciate the significance of these structures, connecting you with the heart and soul of Madison County.

Good to know

Prepare to be amazed by the Roseman Covered Bridge, featured in "The Bridges of Madison County" film, and believed by some to be haunted. Discover the Cutler-Donahoe, one of the remaining covered bridges, nestled in Winterset's City Park, where you can also explore an English hedge maze and Clark Tower, a hidden gem resembling a castle. Lastly, make sure to take in the beauty of the Holliwell Covered Bridge, the longest among Madison County's bridges, gracefully spanning over Middle River. Remember to bring your camera to immortalize these scenic sights.

Reviews

Travelers who have embarked on this Personal Guided Tour have marveled at the depth of knowledge shared by the guides and the enchanting ambiance of the covered bridges. Visitors have praised the professionalism and passion of the guides, who bring the history of Madison County to life. Such an unforgettable experience has left participants with a newfound appreciation for the bridges' historical significance and a desire to rewatch the film that immortalized them. Join others who have fallen under the spell of Madison County's covered bridges and create your own cherished memories on this remarkable journey.

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