Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Madison County, Iowa Chamber & Welcome Center. All opinions and photos are mine.
If you’re seeking a relaxing weekend in a picturesque destination that evokes feelings of nostalgia, go to Madison County, Iowa.
The region is best known for its covered bridges and awe-inspiring views—towns like Winterset, St. Charles, and nearby Orient offer incredible dining, one-of-a-kind shopping, and unequaled museums.
Spending a weekend exploring Madison County will make you fall in love with it like I did.
DAY 1
LUNCH: MEMORIES ON 1ST AVENUE – TEA ROOM & TIMELESS TREASURES
One of the best places to spend your lunch hour is at Memories on 1st Avenue – Team Room & Timeless Treasures (111 S. 1st Avenue, Winterset) for a scratch-made meal in a unique setting.
We entered the cozy restaurant via a door located just below street level, and to my delight, each table was adorned with beautiful china and glassware. The owner (who doubles as the chef!) prepares sandwiches, soup, quiche, and fresh salads.
I thought the Reuben on marble rye bread, a cup of homemade Strawberry Soup, and a glass of iced raspberry tea was divine. Sharing a towering lemon meringue pie, we chatted about Winterset and the town’s history.
PRO TIP: The eatery is open Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., with limited seating. Small groups should reserve a table in advance. Add a few minutes of extra time to your lunch to peruse the restaurant’s displayed antiques – many of which are for sale.
CITY PARK
A leisurely tour of City Park (South St and S 9th St, Winterset) must be part of your travel plans when in the area. The 76-acre natural oasis features a full-service campground, playgrounds, and historic structures to explore on foot.
A self-guided tour of Clark Tower was, by far, my favorite discovery. We traversed a narrow, one-mile road by car to the top of a curvy hill en route to it. Built in 1926 in honor of early settlers, the limestone landmark resembles something from a fairy tale.
If you’re comfortable with heights, climb the 25-foot Clark Tower for a 360-degree Middle River Valley view.
Another park feature not to be missed includes the whimsical chainsaw sculptures by Iowa artist Gary Keenan. The English Hedge Maze leads to a sundial, and an adjacent bocce ball court invites parkers to play a game.
Nearby Bennett Cabin and Cutler-Donahue Bridge, each built in the 1800s, are photo-worthy attractions.
Seek out the stone bridge for another photo moment. It’s the location where Robert and Francesca’s movie scene was filmed.
PRO TIP: Traveling with kids? Prepare to explore the park and its play features for at least an hour.
CUTLER-DONAHOE BRIDGE
Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge is the closest to downtown Winterset, a short drive by car. It was built in 1870 by Eli Cox (the same man who constructed the Covered Bridge House) and was moved to Winterset’s City Park in 1970.
Spanning 79 feet, the bridge is within walking distance of the road that winds through the park. You’ll appreciate the stone bridge, also nearby, the site of the movie’s film scene where Robert and Francesca enjoy a picnic.
HOLLIWELL BRIDGE
Holliwell Bridge is the longest of the six original, covered bridges at 122 feet. Built in 1880 by Harvey P. Jones and George K. Foster, it is located southeast of Winterset.
It appears in the movie The Bridges of Madison County when Francesca meets Robert there before they return to her home for dinner.
Parking is available nearby, and the path to the bridge is easy to navigate.
COVERED BRIDGES WINERY
Our visit to Covered Bridges Winery (2207 170th Trail, Winterset), four miles outside of town, was a delightful one. I hope you add to our itinerary.
We had the pleasure of sitting with winemaker Kevin Fifo to sip award-winning vino while learning how the business evolved from making wine at home to a sophisticated operation using 100% Iowa grapes.
After sampling red and white drier varieties, we ultimately bought a bottle of LaCresent 2021 (2017 Mid-American Wine Competition Silver winner) to bring home.
The tasting room offered six white, six red, and two rosé wines to select from for a multi-sample tasting experience.
Whether you drop in for a glass of wine in the tasting room or on the patio overlooking the valley, I highly recommend adding it to your itinerary. They don’t push wine on you to try, and instead serve you “whichever wine you like to drink.”
PRO TIP: A guided tour and tasting takes about two hours. If you visit during harvest, you may get to sample fresh juice from the presser. View the Facebook page for music events, weather permitting.
WINTERSET CIDERY
There must be something magical in the Iowa soil because it’s also known for producing delicious apples. In fact, the Red Delicious variety, originally named Hawkeye, was discovered in Iowa.
At Winterset Cidery (1638 Hwy 169, Winterset), apple lovers can sip hard cider from dry to sweet inside a tasting room with floor-to-ceiling orchard views. Free popcorn and available board games promise a good time.
During our visit, we chose to sit on the front porch to watch as summer rainstorm clouds developed. I sipped Lime Habanero Hard Cider, which finished sweet and sampled another favorite, John Wayne Bone Dry Hard Cider. Each one tasted crisp with authentic flavor.
PRO TIP: Check the Facebook page to plan your visit during the apple-picking season or to check for events like Thursday Trivia or live music performances.
HOGBACK BRIDGE
After enjoying a glass of wine or cider, drive southwest to Hogback Bridge (follow the signs!) on your way back to Winterset.
At 97 feet, the awe-inspiring bridge was built in 1884 and sits in its original location. The Hogback was named for the Hogback Ridge at the valley’s west end (its convex curve resembles the curve of a hog’s back).
You’ll appreciate the scenic view at this one. Like each covered bridge in the county, it was renovated in the 1990s to maintain its beauty.
CEDAR BRIDGE
You should drive to nearby Cedar Bridge while exploring Hogback Bridge since they are close in distance. The covered bridge, built in 1883, is the same bridge that appears on the cover of the book The Bridges of Madison County by Robert James Waller.
Unfortunately, the bridge fell victim to arson twice in recent years and had to be reconstructed. The replica reminds us of the sentiment shared by the movie’s characters portrayed by Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep.
JOHN WAYNE BIRTHPLACE MUSEUM
Madison County is the site of film productions and produced a Hollywood star, John Wayne. Born Marion Robert Morrison on May 26, 1907, at home, John Wayne was the oldest boy of two to parents Clyde and Mary.
He lived in Winterset until age seven. As a boy, he walked about town with his brother and dog, Duke. Eventually taking on the nickname Duke, the family moved to California in 1914. The actor starred in 170 films.
John Wayne Birthplace & Museum (205 S. John Wayne Drive, Winterset) allows the actor’s fans to tour his childhood home and pursue film artifacts and items from his collection.
The first stop? The museum’s theater room for a short film highlighting his achievements. Next, take a self-guided tour of each of the two galleries.
I was curious about the actor’s collection of coffee mugs – he had a keepsake mug made for each movie. Handwritten letters, a car, clothing, and an address book were some of the personal items included in the collection.
PRO TIP: I recommend devoting at least an hour to touring the birthplace home and museum if you like to read each panel. Review the John Wayne In Iowa map showing the family’s moves across the state.
WINTERSET PUBLIC LIBRARY
As a writer, I feel at home in a library. We stopped at Winterset Public Library (123 N. 2nd St.) to take a relaxing break while admiring the work of young artists on display.
I was impressed to find a basket of free produce available near the checkout counter, which I assumed came from the community garden behind the library outside.
PRO TIP: Often the site of entertaining events, the library’s Facebook page is an excellent resource in preparation for your visit.
MONUMENTAL PARK
Next to the library, Monumental Park houses one of the earliest Civil War monuments in Iowa, a 14-foot marble pillar inscribed on each side. Four black cannons, gifted to Madison County in 1878, surround its base.
Modern benches with historical references were added to the park. I enjoyed learning about how George Washington Carver wandered into Winterset, where he lived and worked for two years.
MURALS & FREEDOM ROCK
The Madison County Freedom Rock (half a block east of John Wayne Birthplace and Museum) is the 64th painted rock in the state’s collection. Painted by Ray Sorenson, it showcases the Quilts of Valor Foundation headquartered in Winterset.
An art alley with interactive murals is adjacent to the Madison County Courthouse. Artists James Navarro and Katie Jensen intended visitors to discover ways to pose with the paintings.
DINNER: THE DRIFT
I can’t think of a better place to enjoy dinner after exploring Madison County than The Drift (112 N. 1st St, Winterset). The taproom serves flatbreads, sandwiches, and wraps using farm-to-table ingredients.
We shared a charcuterie board while sipping craft beers as a prelude to dinner. The Drift Salad and Roast Beef Panini served on locally sourced bread made the dining experience exceptional.
PRO TIP: If you’re not a craft beer drinker (21 Iowa beers on tap!), ask about wine and mead selections. Non-alcoholic beers are an option.
COVERED BRIDGE HOUSE
Our stay at Covered Bridge House changed my life. It made me slow down and remember that delightful moments can be as simple as enjoying a sunset and listening to cicadas buzz on a summer evening.
A restored 1908 country home turned Airbnb, the three-bedroom, two-bath home is incredibly well-maintained and modernized to accommodate couples or families seeking a weekend of solitude.
A short drive from dining, shopping, and museums in Winterset, it was perfect for us. We watched the movie The Bridges Over Madison County at night while drinking champagne in a room surrounded by antiques and framed artwork.
The charming home had every comfort we wanted, and to be honest, I loved the experience so much that I wished the house was for sale so we could buy it.
The creak of the original wood floors.The sunset view from the porch. I loved our stay, as will you.
DAY 2
BREAKFAST: THE BAKERY UNLIMITED
When everyone in town tells you to order an apple fritter at The Bakery Unlimited (119 N. John Wayne Dr., Winterset), you go. Also known for its daily specials, cracked wheat bread, and delectable bagels, the local hangout draws an early morning crowd.
DOWNTOWN SHOPPING
While I only had time to stop in some of the stores in Winterset, I discovered gems near the courthouse square and a short walk from it.
DUTCH COUNTRY GENERAL STORE
Dutch Country General Store (72 E. Court Ave., Winterset) is a retail space selling little of everything.
From fresh groceries to retro candy and sodas to home decor and toys, you’ll find something you can’t leave the store without. I purchased a scented candle, Fresh Cut Grass.
ROW YOUR GOAT
Row Your Goat (110 W. Court Ave., Winterset) is a must-visit shop specializing in Iowa-made goods and groceries. I found it hard to resist purchasing handmade soap. Their inventory of candles, artwork, framed photography, and gift items is irresistible.
BRICK ROAD BOOKS
A reader’s dream, Brick Road Books’s (105 W. Court Ave., Winterset) front retail area is stocked with new fiction and non-fiction releases, while the rear of the store contains used books.
PRO TIP: Kids get a free used book when they visit, and the monthly book club selections keep shoppers returning for new reads.
WHOMPY BEAR BOUTIQUE
Owned and operated by a mom-turned-entrepreneur, Whompy Bear Boutique (114 N. 1st Ave., Winterset) is the newest addition to Winterset’s shopping scene.
The clothing, shoes, and accessories for sale are on-trend, including the latest seasonal fashions. The inviting store features a stroller parking zone and interactive spaces for kiddos, such as a push-and-listen station (are those bees buzzing?) and a toy treasure box.
HARVEST CREEK
Harvest Creek(108 N. 1st Ave.) is unlike any other store you may have seen. The shop is filled floor-to-ceiling with antiques, oddities, home decor, candles, and more.
In preparation for fall, I noticed an abundance of witchy decor items; however, they may sell similar whimsical gifts year-round.
PINE CREEK, LTD
At Pine Creek, Ltd. (110 N. 1st Ave., Winterset), you’re likely to find a gift for yourself or someone else since the artfully decorated shop is filled with items for one’s home, from pillows and picture frames to stationary and soup mixes.
Seasonal floral picks and sit-a-bouts are arranged in vignettes throughout the store.
PRO TIP: The store’s Holiday Open House takes place in November, debuting elaborately decorated trees and decor.
MADISON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & WELCOME CENTER
The Madison County Chamber of Commerce & Welcome Center (73 E. Jefferson St, Winterset) is the best place to shop for a souvenir of your trip. The well-stocked shelves include artwork and photography created by locals. Additionally, the staff is eager to answer your travel questions and offer advice.
SPOONS FULL OF SUGAR
As soon as I walked into Spoons Full of Sugar (420 S. John Wayne Dr.), I wanted everything she was selling. Located a short walk from the courthouse square, the boutique carries boho-style women’s apparel, leather shoes and handbags, and chunky jewelry.
Most of the jewelry is handmade by the owner. Silver spoons are crafted into rings, necklaces, and bracelets. Shoppers in search of faith-based finds will appreciate the store’s inventory.
PRO TIP: Like what you see here but can’t make it to the shop? Visit her online store.
EVERGREEN AND LILY FLORAL STUDIO
Evergreen and Lily Floral Studio (419 S. First St., Winterset) is across the street from Spoons Full of Sugar, a worthwhile stop if you’re searching for bountiful houseplants or fresh floral arrangements.
The store is also female-owned and operated, stocking inventory created by women.
I loved how each houseplant was given a name to make the shopping experience more fun. I couldn’t leave without buying a handcrafted greeting card for our house host.
PRO TIP: Visit the Facebook page to RSVP for upcoming floral arrangement workshops.
LUNCH: MADISON COUNTY WINERY, ST. CHARLES
After a great shopping day, Madison County Winery is the only place to go (3021 St. Charles Rd., St. Charles), a 16-minute drive southeast of Winterset. You can sample and purchase Iowa-produced wines and craft beers from two local breweries.
The vineyard produces five varieties of grapes on 30 acres.
We enjoyed a five-sample tasting of wines of our choice while visiting with the owner/winemaker. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the process of wine production from vine to glass while we enjoyed a platter of artisan cheeses, meats, and chocolates with our wine.
I appreciated the aged white cheddar with the dry Rosato red wine. Other favorites included crisp and refreshing Vignoles, semi-dry white Hunter’s Moon, and Red Cabernet.
PRO TIP: Ask for a sample of the Unfiltered Wine Rosemary & Garlic Vinegar with bread. You’ll want to buy a bottle to take home. Bonus! If you arrive during a Wood Fired Pizza event, enjoy $2 off glasses of wine.
IMES BRIDGE
Located East of St. Charles, the Imes Bridge is visible from the highway. One of the oldest of the remaining covered bridges, the 81-foot bridge was originally located closer to the town of Patterson but was moved to its current location in 1977.
The bridges were constructed with wood and designed to be covered to last longer. Some visitors, particularly couples, have carved their names or initials into the wood to signify their love.
THE FARMSTAND BY MANASTASH MERCANTILE
Like a boutique store in a big city, The Farmstand by Manastash Mercantile (101 Main St., St. Charles) caters to shoppers who want gifts for themselves or someone else with sophisticated style.
The mother-daughter duo believes “people here deserve these things, and there is something for everyone.” 
What started as a jewelry business evolved into a specialty store selling dishes, apparel, gourmet foods, fresh floral arrangements, and more.
WAYWARD SAINTS GIFT SHOP
Wayward Saints Gift Shop (located across the street from The Farmstand by Manastash Mercantile) is a cozy shop supplying locals and visitors with handcrafted items from nearly 20 regional vendors.
Wayward Saints Farm LLC produces goat milk products such as soaps, lotions, and hand-poured soy candles. You may find them at an area farmers market when they are not running the shop.
IOWA QUILT MUSEUM
If you quilt or appreciate those who do, visiting the Iowa Quilt Museum (68 E. Court Ave.) is essential.
The downstairs gallery houses evolving exhibits of handcrafted quilts. Curious about the evolution of making quilts, I walked upstairs to view historical displays.
On the day of my visit, I voted for my favorite quilt, a 3-D pattern, from the collection “Welcome Home: A Celebrate of Quilts.” It was interesting to look closely at the handiwork of quilts dating back to the 1850s.
PRO TIP: The museum installs new exhibits four times a year. Next door, Pieceworks Quilt Shop, sells fabric and supplies.
ROSEMAN BRIDGE
Do you remember the movie scene when Francesca leaves a note for Robert inviting him to dinner? This moment was filmed at Roseman Bridge southwest of Winterset, spanning the Middle River. The 1883 bridge is considered haunted by some after a jail escapee was said to have appeared and then disappeared from its roof in 1892.
PRO TIP: If you visit Friday-Sunday, stop next door at the Roseman Covered Bridge Gift Shop to purchase a souvenir commemorating your visit to the famous bridge.
PIZZA ON THE PRAIRIE: HENRY WALLACE FARM
If you’ve never experienced a farm-to-table dinner at sunset, you haven’t lived. Pizza on the Prairie at the Wallace Centers of Iowa (2773 290th St., Orient) is a reservation-only event on Friday nights from early June to late September.
Upon our arrival, we followed the path to the kitchen to order our brick oven pizzas and house-made cucumber salad. We walked with craft beers in hand to a table of friendly locals who welcomed us to sit with them.
Live folk music played as we dined on two styles of pizzas and engaged in conversation with our new friends. Inspired by the sunset, we left the table to walk a manicured path through the prairie amongst towering sunflowers and a temporary Prairie Art Exhibit.
The unique experience left an impression on us. After driving back from the event, we vowed to do two things: 1.) Learn how to make fresh tomato compote (delicious on the pizza) and 2.) Take our new friend’s advice for aging well, “Stay active and be social.”
PRO TIP: Bring lawn chairs or a picnic blanket to the event.
DAY 3
BREAKFAST: PETITE CAFE
Petite Cafe (106 W. Court Ave., Winterset) is worth driving hundreds of miles to experience. The owner, Naomi, wanted to open a coffee shop after the husband and wife team had roasted beans (@pammelparkcoffee) for years.
The popular cafe serves gorgeous, scratch-made pastries with top-quality coffee. The grab-and-go options like salads, wraps, and bakery items made with locally sourced ingredients.
People wait in line to order inside the 250-square-foot cafe (seating for 10!), and if a seat isn’t available, they eat their pastries and sip lattes from an outdoor park bench.
PRO TIP: Arrive at the cafe when they open to claim a scone before they’re gone.
DOWNTOWN MURAL TOUR
A series of murals designed by artists James Navarro and Katie Jensen create an interactive experience in an alley adjacent to courthouse square in historic downtown Winterset.
Each painted scene offers visitors something to discover. Look closely at the details to find the hidden gems.
MONTROSS PHARMACY SODA FOUNTAIN
I knew I wasn’t leaving town without a visit to Montross Pharmacy Soda Fountain (118 N. 1st Ave), and neither should you. Since 1921, the pharmacy has served the community.
Craving an old-fashioned cherry Pepsi®, I entered the store and headed to the back, where I discovered a nostalgic scene. Residents sat on bar stools and in booths, enjoying a hot breakfast and discussing the day’s events.
PAMMEL STATE PARK
You must visit Pammel State Park (1900 Pammel Park Rd) before departing from Madison County.
Only a 12-minute drive southwest of Winterset, the park is well-revered by locals for its five miles of trails, picnic areas, and historic 1858 Harmon Tunnel – the only highway tunnel in the state.
The town celebrates the park’s 100th anniversary this year.
BONUS IDEAS
BIG RACK BREW HAUS
Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to hit every go-to spot in the county otherwise, we would have made it to Big Rack Brew Haus (2475 Hiatt Apple Trail, Winterset) – just another reason to return to Madison County.
THE IOWA THEATRE
The Iowa Theatre (121 N. John Wayne Dr.) is a renovated retro movie theater that shows modern-day movies and the John Wayne Matinee Series. You can count on art-house films to be shown during Sunday Movie Club.
FESTIVALS AND FAIRS
Madison County hosts a festival or fair almost every month of the year, and the Covered Bridge Festival in October draws a crowd. View their event calendar to plan your visit.
TOUR CONSIDERATIONS
If you prefer a guided, two-hour tour of the covered bridges, the Madison County Chamber and Welcoming Center can arrange for one of their expert tour guides to ride in your vehicle and provide information on the history of the bridges, including the movie production, for a small fee.
FINAL THOUGHTS
My Iowan friends told me I’d love my trip to the state, particularly Madison County, and they were right.
I long for the day I can relax on the front porch at Covered Bridge House again or enjoy a delicious meal with a beautiful view of the Winterset courthouse.
I’m incredibly grateful to Madison County, Iowa Chamber & Welcome Center for hosting my visit. If you’d like more information about things to do in the area or upcoming events, follow their Facebook page.
It’s time you plan a vacation to Madison County, Iowa.
If you’re seeking another town to enjoy during your road trip, I recommend adding A Weekend in Fort Dodge, Iowa: A Delightful Getaway to your travel plans. It’s only two hours north of Winterset.
I had the pleasure of staying overnight in Clay Center to make the most of my visit. With a population hovering at about 4,000 people, the tight-knit community rolls out the red carpet for visitors. I arrived in town just after sunrise and parked not far from the limestone courthouse in the town square.
I ordered The OG Acaí Bowl, a blend of acaí (berries of a South American palm tree) and banana topped with fresh fruit, locally sourced honey, coconut shreds, and granola. The delicious breakfast bowl was filling and a healthy alternative to a traditional breakfast. I sat at a table covered in chalkboard paint (colored chalk available!) and admired the artwork on the walls. A table near a cozy seating area sat covered with colorful stickers and board games.
Happy Hippie Studios is more than a place where wellness-driven people come for a tasty bite. A certified yoga instructor, Hammel encourages visitors and locals to join a yoga class or enjoy on-site massage therapy, sauna treatments, and esthetician services.
Hammel’s drive and determination are the only things more impressive than the studios. An award-winning business owner under 30, she grew Happy Hippie from a one-blender farmers’ market stand to a flourishing business. In fact, she served 150 smoothies on opening day. No wonder her slogan is “Smoothies Make People Happy.”
The town’s espresso bar and artisan restaurant are centrally located near retail shops and local businesses. I talked with the owner, Mike Peerson, about his business while he made cold brew. Multi-tasking is a skill Java Junkies employees have to master since the coffee shop is seemingly always busy.
The smell of coffee permeates the air. I enjoyed the Latté of the Week selection while relaxing inside the cafe during my visit. The menu also features early morning selections ranging from scones and pecan rolls to muffins and breakfast burritos. You’ll also find heartier meals like grilled PB&J or cheese sandwiches, as well as turkey wraps on the menu.
I returned on Day 2 of my stay in Clay Center for a hot coffee. The line reached from the counter almost to the door while employees hurriedly served patrons. They were busy for a good reason. The 4th Annual Java Junkies T-Rex Race for charity was about to start, and race fans wanted to fuel up before watching it. (More on the race later!)
The 299-seat theatre is a gem in the heart of the town. It’s where many locals have come for years, noting memorable moments. Director Reneé Langvardt and her employees work hard to provide an unforgettable experience. During the summer, families enjoy Free Movie Friday. When school children are released early from school on scheduled days, the theatre plays a movie to keep them entertained.
When the lights are up, visitors can see the theatre’s stunning architecture including ornate plaster made of horsehair. The modern seating provides a comfortable movie screening experience. Newly restored bathrooms are adorned with framed images of Hollywood stars of the past. The original tile floor and entryway harken back to an earlier time.
The concession stand is fully stocked with the movie popcorn, cotton candy, and candy selections you crave. Ask about combo deals. Adults can enjoy beer and wine.
As I drove up to The Schoolhouse Inn, I noted the bell in the tower and the oversized windows and doors. Inside, the interior was decorated in neutral tones. The restored hardwood floors creaked as I toured the accommodations. The open living room space easily included enough seating to accommodate several guests. Original chalkboards carved with the initials of rambunctious students flanked two sides of the room.
Two bedrooms with plush queen-sized beds with end tables and armoires welcomed me. Which one would I choose? The rooms were equally inviting. The full bathroom with a modern shower included the amenities of home plus a basket of toiletries.
Although The Schoolhouse Inn did not have a kitchen, I had access to a small refrigerator and freezer, Keurig coffeemaker, and microwave. The refrigerator was filled with bottled water and soda products. Complimentary drinks and snacks made the stay unexpectedly comfortable.
Because The Schoolhouse Inn sits on the owner’s private property, I found it to be a peaceful and quiet setting. If you want to stay overnight in The Schoolhouse Inn, contact the owner via their 
The brewery is kicking out some of the area’s best beers. I ordered a four-pour beer flight to sample several brews. As a travel writer, I’ve drank quite a bit of craft beer, and I’m pleased to say that I enjoyed all of the Brew House’s selections. Peel Out, comparable to Blue Moon, lived up to the hype. The two-time National Grand Champ Belgian Wit was my favorite, followed by 1 Eye Open Tropical IPA.
Voted “Best Burgers in Clay County,” I wasn’t going to miss my opportunity to order the stacked and smothered Gouda Mac burger. The sandwich is a feast for the eyes. Gouda bites drip with chipotle aioli atop a burger with bacon. You won’t leave a single bite on the plate – so leave room for crispy waffle fries! Other menu options include steaks, pizzas, salads, and appetizers. View the 
I was fortunate to get a private tour of the backroom brewing facility by Brew Master & General Manager Clint Armstrong. A few questions in, and I realized that Clint is the real deal. He cut his teeth on beer brewing like most beginners and then sought the mentorship of the pros while living in Colorado.
When visiting Brew House, carve out enough time to enjoy a meal and a few beers while chatting with locals. Taproom Manager Phil Kasper is a friendly, welcoming guy eager to chat about Clay Center or beer. If the weather is nice, enjoy the newly installed patio for a view of downtown.
I had the opportunity to meet various animals thanks to a guided tour by facility employees. I watched black bears dine on snacks. A lemur ate raisins from my hand. And beautiful birds like the ones pictured above chatted excitedly while we observed them. The zoo is undergoing a major renovation that includes the addition of an aviary that will become a habitat for various birds.
Ginger has operated the business for 36 years providing locals and visitors a place to shop for a gift for themself or someone else. They pride themselves on carrying the best brands in the business. Nora Fleming, Brighton, Michel Design Works, The World’s Best Pan…you name it, you can find it at Ginger’s Uptown. Plus, they make shopping for their products easy if you can do so in person.
I challenge you to try leaving the store without buying something. I couldn’t do it. Home cooks will appreciate the specialty foods corner that includes fill-a-bottle olive oils. Ladies looking to add glam to their wardrobe will appreciate the clothing and jewelry selection. And women looking to purchase seasonal home decor will gasp in amazement at the displays that welcome shoppers.
Known for its wedding registry services, the store caters to those who need to pick up a gift for the bride and groom. Rumor has it that they’re on almost every local wedding registry. Ginger is the queen of ribbons and is known for creating wow-worthy gift baskets. They can also ship you 99% of the inventory, and you can shop from the store’s website to order online.
The Uptown Girls host Thursday Coffee Talk sessions on Facebook live showcasing the newest inventory. Events like All That Glitters Christmas Showcase always promise big crowds, so signing up to attend one of the sessions in advance is key.
The 
PRO TIP: If you accompany a country club member, you can golf the course or enjoy a meal in the dining room as their guest.
After a fire destroyed their old facility, the owners drew design plans for the current building on butcher paper. The converted Dollar General Store is the town’s meat locker keeping locals’ refrigerators stocked with Kansas beer and pork products. It’s also a one-stop shop for grab-and-go shopping. They carry a large selection of beer and road-ready snacks.
PRO TIP: Pack a large iced-down cooler for your trip to Clay Center to fill it up with frozen meat. Oh, and don’t miss the back shelves stocked with private-label pickled vegetables and salsa.
Piotique Celebration takes place on the last Saturday of September every year. A tradition since 1936, hundreds of people turn out to watch parades, shop for food and craft vendors, play games, watch Cruise Night, and listen to live music. Expect large crowds to watch festivities downtown if the festival falls on the same weekend as homecoming.
The 4th Annual Java Junkies T-Rex Race for charity drew hundreds of spectators this year. Sponsored participants donning inflatable costumes sprinted down a city block to earn their way into the final heat. The winner earned $1,000 to donate to a charity of choice. It’s an event that is not to be missed.
Milford Lake is a 30-minute drive southeast of Clay Center. It’s an exceptional location for birdwatching, hiking, water sports, and overnight lodging in cabins or via campgrounds. Read what you can expect at Milford Nature Center in a post about Junction City 
I’m not going to lie. I felt a little tug on my heartstrings as I pulled out of town, leaving my new friends behind. The town’s people are welcoming, and with so much to do and see in Clay Center, it made it hard to leave.
Go for the murals. Drop into town to dine at the restaurants. Plan a trip around the town’s many events and festivals. No matter the time of year, Clay Center is a wonderful place to explore.
Amanda’s is more than just another small town coffee shop. It’s also a retail store that sells antiques, gifts, greeting cards, and farmhouse decor. It was as if we were sitting inside someone’s beautiful home but everything was for sale. We watched as residents came into Amanda’s for their usual morning coffee. It’s the kind of place where they remember your order and greet you with a smile.
The Seelye Mansion, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is considered one of the finest homes in Kansas. Built in 1905, it has 11 bedrooms, a bowling alley, a grand piano, and many of its finishes are painted with gold. The cost at the time to build the 11,000 square foot home? $55,000.
In the dining room, I sat at the head of the table where the Seeyle’s once hosted presidents and state governors. We were surrounded by luxury. The Seeyle’s spared no expense to outfit their home with the best money could buy. You must see it for yourself. Wait until you see the Tiffany-designed fireplace in the grand hall! And don’t forget to check out the 1905 Box Ball bowling alley in the basement.
The grounds of the mansion are equally stunning. The gardens feature a goldfish pond, a pedestrian bridge, and water fountain. Open year-round to visitors, it’s transformed during the holidays. At Christmas time, the home is decorated with 80 trees and over 700 nutcrackers. That’s a party I want to attend!
Our train ride, although bumpy and a bit noisy, was worthwhile because it gave us a chance to relive what it must have been like to ride the rails. Operated by volunteers, we listened to the sounds of the excursion train as it traveled about 1o-15 mph. The view of Kansas farm fields was breathtaking. To book a train ride online, choose from three options: Regular Excursion, Dinner Train Ride, or Steam Locomotive Train rides 
Then, you’re free to explore the museum’s displays covering the highlights of the racing sport from ancient times to the present. Notable greyhounds made history for their agility and fast running times. Inductees of the Hall of Fame date back to 1963.
Don’t be surprised if you’re approached by a retired racer! During our visit, we met three rehabilitated greyhounds who happened to be visiting the museum with their owner. I had never met greyhounds in person and found them to be quite friendly. Once bred to be hunting dogs to chase hare, fox, and deer, they are graceful and make loving companions. One of the dogs (pictured below) nuzzled up to me to let me know that it was fond of me – such a sweetheart!
The grounds are open to the public to explore on any given day. However, I recommend checking their Facebook page to plan your visit around one of the many events they host from simulated gunfighter shootouts to concerts. Chisholm Trail Days includes pioneer impersonators, a draft horse pull, vendors, and artisans. Stop into the saloon for a cold drink and then sit on a bench and watch the town come alive! To learn more about Old Abilene Town and the Heritage Center, read a blog post I wrote about both locations 
We tried the Spinach Artichoke Dip crepe, which was made fresh in front of us. Have you seen crepes made? It’s fun to watch the crepe maker pull the liquid around the hot stone until it is finished. The texture of our crepes were pillowly soft and the inside was tasty with a hint of garlic flavor. I enjoyed the lunch with a glass of iced Blackberry Hibiscus House Tea.
While downtown, I encourage you to visit 
The restaurant filled up quickly with hungry customers and it wasn’t long before the hostess stand put some of them on a 10-15 minute wait. If visiting The Hitching Post during the weekend, I recommend visiting as soon as they open. View their hours and daily special via their 
Are you considering making 
