Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Visit Marysville and its partners. However, all opinions and photos are my own, with the exception of one labeled courtesy photo.
Referred to as Black Squirrel City, Marysville, Kansas, is a place everyone should experience. Once located on the Oregon Trail and home of Pony Express Station No. 1, the charming town offers visitors multiple museums, boutique shops, downtown dining options, and outdoor trails.
Marysville is a one-hour drive north of Manhattan and about a 20-minute from the Nebraska border.
Located near the Big Blue River, Marysville was established before Kansas became a state, serving as a trading post in 1852 for Francis J. (Frank) Marshall. Eventually, Marshall opened a post office and named the town Marysville after his wife, Mary.
Eventually, the town was the first home station of the Pony Express route west of St. Joseph, Missouri. As time passed, Marysville was the site of the Union Pacific Railroad’s line connecting Kansas City, Kansas, and Hastings, Nebraska.
The town is rich in history, and it inspired me to want to explore. Plus, its stunning architecture and natural scenery add a Hallmark movie quality, which earned it a place on USA Today‘s “50 State Road Trip,” featuring the most beautiful towns in every state.
I visit numerous Kansas towns. Marysville’s points of interest deliver a wow factor.
10 Must-Have Experiences in Marysville, Kansas
Explore Pony Express History
Brave riders race through Kansas with leather bags filled with mail en route along the Pony Express in all the terrain and weather around the clock. For 18 months, from April 1860 to October 1861, riders delivered letters from St. Joseph, Missouri, to Sacramento, California. Marysville was the first station west of Missouri.
Snap Photos at Pony Express Sculpture
Start your day at the towering Pony Express bronze sculpture across from the Marysville Convention & Tourism office (209 N. 8th Street).
The artist’s representation of Pony Express rider Jack Keetley, shows him as the first rider to embark on the journey from Marysville. Look closely at his face. Can you imagine what was going through his mind as he rose into the night?
PRO TIP: I defied blustery Kansas winds to admire artist Dr. Richard Bergen’s sculpture, and it was well worth viewing as the native grass well in the wind at its base. Don’t miss the chance to view three tile panels installed nearby. As you walk from one to the other, notice how the subject matter changes as if animated.
Tour the Pony Express Barn & Museum
Naturally, your next stop should be the Pony Express Barn & Museum (106 S. 8th St.), the Original Pony Express Home Station No. 1 dating back to 1859. A native limestone building, it is nestled next to the barn that once served as a livery stable.
You’re transported back in time as you walk into the museum’s doors.
I was warmly greeted by a volunteer who offered to give me a personalized tour of the grounds after I watched a 14-minute introductory video about Pony Express history.
As he led me from artifact stations to dioramas depicting Native American tribes who once resided in the area, I became increasingly impressed with the museum exhibits. Considering how difficult it is to curate items from the Pony Express era, the museum reflects the year in history well.
Hands-on activity stations, designed for visiting children and groups of touring school kids, include animal pelts, sun-bleached bones, and cowboy apparel. Massive stagecoaches and farm equipment sit nearby, but once you venture into the original barn, it becomes clear how primitive life on The Great Plains was in the late 1800s. 
The old livery stables smell of straw, rusted farm tools, and dusty barn boards. Donated implements rest on shelving.
As my guide cranked an antique corn sheller, demonstrating how it removed kernels from the cob, I watched field corn drop into a pan underneath.
Mail a Letter from the Post Office
The next stop on your exploration of the town’s Pony Express history should lead you to the Marysville Post Office (109 S. 9th). The first of its kind in Kansas, the interior resembles a typical post office, but it’s what’s outside that fascinates history seekers.
The post office is the oldest civilian post office in continual operation in the state, and its exterior marker honors this history, noting the contributions of the Pony Express founders Majors, Waddell, and Russell.
PRO TIP: Buy stamps and mail a letter or postcard to celebrate your visit. Note: The post office is closed during the lunch hour from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm.
Locate the Black Squirrels on Parade
How does a town become known as Black Squirrel City in the heart of the country? Sure, they’re the town’s mascot, but why?
As the legendary story goes, a child at the McMahon Carnival released caged black squirrels, and they ran wild, making their home in Marysville. While black squirrels exist in other locales, their concentration in Marysville is significant.
Black Squirrels on Parade celebrates the town’s appreciation for the fuzzy critters with hand-painted fiberglass sculptures. The city installed 34 five-foot squirrels in 2016, and now more than 50 of the chubby chipmunks are stationed across town.
Of course, I wasn’t satisfied taking pictures of faux squirrels and set out to find the real ones running about me. At Marysville City Park (10th and Oak Street), I parked the car and waited.
Within minutes, I spotted black squirrels chasing one another up and down trees in the company of red squirrels. They emitted high-pitched chirps until they spotted me, and then they froze in place silently, posing for my camera.
PRO TIP: Walk through the park to the stone historic marker honoring Marysville’s stop on the Oregon Trail. Traveling with kids? They’ll love using the castle-like playground equipment at the park, which also includes a nine-hole disc golf course.
Admire Victorian Living at Koester House Museum and Gardens
Isn’t it grand? Perhaps the most opulent Marysville residence, Koester House Museum and Gardens (919 Broadway), looks as fantastic inside as it does from street view.
As I stepped into the garden blooming with spring tulips, a water fountain trickled water in the distance as the trees blew in the Kansas wind. I walked uneven brick pavers up to the door and rang the bell.
Leading me through the home was not just a tour guide but a family member by marriage to the Koesters. Her personal ties to the family infused the tour with a storytelling, as she recounted the Koester family’s captivating journey to prosperity.
Charles F. Koester came from Germany to Marysville in 1960 and served as treasurer before teaming up with his brother-in-low to launch the Exchange Bank of Schmidt & Koester. Family heirs donated the entire block’s buildings, built by the family, to the town in 1977.
As we meandered through the lower level of the home and exterior buildings, which included an ice house, coal house, and summer kitchen, I was in awe, thinking how a German immigrant arrived to Kansas at age seven without a formal education and accomplished so much.
PRO TIP: The museum is open for tours from April through October. It is closed during the lunch hour from 12:00 pm-1:00 pm. Walk-ins welcome. Remember to sign the guest book after paying the $5 adult and $2 children admission.
Appreciate the Past at Marshall County Historic Courthouse Museum
Onward! Leave the car park and walk a couple of blocks to Marshall County Historic Courthouse Museum (1207 Broadway). The 1891 courthouse, a Richardsonian Romanesque building constructed with $43,000, is viewable from any direction due to its tower, limestone foundation, and vibrant red brick.
The interior, restored to its original beauty, is bolder in design. Multi-color tile floors lead thematic rooms, where museum volunteers curated artifacts that tell a visual story of Marshall County history, its people, and industries.
The recessed entrance, crown molding, sun-catching stained glass, and ornate stair railing showcase 19th-century Romanesque style.
As I toured each of the three floors’ displays, I stopped in my tracks upon entering the courtroom. As if untouched since the judge and jury exited a final time, the massive room is meticulously restored. The wood floor creaked until my step, and the mid-day sun cast light beams through colored stained glass windows.
And then I spotted the most interesting room of them all. The Jury Room.
The tiny space included a table, chairs, and primitively designed bathrooms. It’s hard to imagine deliberating a court case in the room for days. Perhaps weeks.
PRO TIP: Refer to the museum’s Facebook page to plan your visit around an upcoming event.
Dine Like a Local
eMpTy Cup Coffee Bar & Bistro
If you’re searching for a place to savor a hearty homemade breakfast with a cup of coffee, eMpTy Cup Coffee Bar & Bistro (723 Broadway) is an excellent place to land. The locals fill the morning dining room, chatting about the town’s news between breakfast bites and trips to refill cups at the self-serve coffee station.
I enjoyed listening to the chatter and the kitchen grill sizzling while perched on a barstool at the window counter. A friendly employee delivered a large plate of smothered biscuits, eggs, and cheese, a delicious meal that could easily feed two people.
PRO TIP: Voted Best Pie in Marshall County, don’t forget to buy a slice to go from the reach-in refrigerator.
Sandy’s Pantry
Locals recommend dining at Sandy’s Pantry (820 Center St.) at lunchtime. A bit lost, I asked a local for directions. She said, “It’s located in the movie theatre. You’ll like it. They serve good food.”
The smell of home-cooked Chinese food permeated the theatre lobby. Specializing in Chinese entrees, Sandy’s Pantry also serves a few Mexican and American dishes. I chose the day’s special, Sweet and Sour Chicken, and sat in a retro diner booth to sip my fountain drink. My meal arrived steaming hot on a bed of white rice.
PRO TIP: The restaurant menu features seven moderately priced entrees, including seven classic Chinese dishes. Tax included.
Wagon Wheel
Find your way to the Wagon Wheel (723 Broadway) at dinnertime. The serving staff ushered me to a comfortable booth in view of a dining room brimming with locals. The check-out counter’s phone rang almost continuously, and people called for pick-up orders.
You could choose a Blue River Fish Sandwich or a Meat Lover’s Burger, which are probably fantastic, but then you’d miss out on perfectly grilled 14-ounce ribeye. I paired my steak dinner with a Blue Moon Belgian Ale (six domestic beers on tap) and enjoyed a leisurely dinner.
PRO TIP: If you want to beat the dinner rush, arrive before a local event ends. Bulldog pride comes out in full force on a middle school cross-country meet night.
Enjoy Retail Therapy During a Downtown Shopping Spree
MSC Boutique
Women seeking the latest fashions will appreciate shopping at MSC Boutique (812 Broadway). Stocking apparel for sizes Small to 3X, the store caters to women who like casual to semi-dressy clothing in vibrant colors and bold patterns.
PRO TIP: Don’t skip the consignment apparel selection in the backroom, and be sure to watch the shop’s live TikTok videos on Sunday at 5:00 pm to view new inventory.
Farmer and Florist
Inside Farmer and Florist, the shop smells of fresh floral arrangements and scented candles. Jarred Kansas-made products, stationary, and bath products adorn shelves amongst house plants.
Farmer and Florist is the type of store that draws you in; before you know it, you’re purchasing a gift for someone. I found the perfect greeting cards.
South Hill Pottery
A few minutes spent inside South Hill Pottery (911 Broadway), and you’re bound to start a conversation with the owner, Sue, who is painting ceramic pieces at a table.
I struck up a conversation learning that not only is the store’s retail created entirely by Sue, but she also teachers individual and group pottery painting classes.
Whether you’d like to drop in and paint a pottery piece to take home or shop for ceramics, South Hill Pottery provides visitors with an immersive experience.
Simple Pleasures & Treasures
At first glance at Simple Pleasures & Treasures’ (905 Broadway) storefront, you may think it’s a tanning salon. But it’s so much more.
It’s the kind of place where women could spend a half day pampering themselves and then shop for a little something special.
Reflections Hallmark
A Hallmark-esque town needs a Hallmark Gold Crown store, and Reflections (901 Broadway) fits the bill. But like most small-town shops, it also delivers unexpected services such as custom orders and picture framing services.
The shelves are stocked with gifts for all ages, including toys for kids, Hallmark ornaments for collectors, and collegiate merchandise for sports fans.
PRO TIP: Introduce yourself to the owners, and you may leave with a complimentary candy, which is a delightful surprise.
AR-EX Drug Store
AR-EX Drug Store (801 Broadway) is not your typical pharmacy. Aside from stocking medical supplies and filling prescriptions, the store is a gem of a find for those shopping for home decor or Black Squirrel City gifts.
The store has a decent amount of inventory, and you’ll likely find clearance items marked for sale each season.
Garden of Eden Flowers & Gifts
No matter your day, your mood instantly lifts after a few minutes of shopping at Garden of Eden Flower & Gifts (717 Broadway). The colorful gift inventory combined with wall decor with positive messaging delivers an element of cheerfulness.
On the day of my visit, the staff was eager to help me when they weren’t busy arranging floral displays in the backroom.IdntiTeez
In Marshall County, you’re surrounded by Marysville Bulldog and K-State Wildcat fans, and IdntiTeez (505 Broadway) is the place to shop for branded apparel. 
PRO TIP: Take a photo with a black squirrel sculpture after placing your custom apparel order, which is available for pick-up the same day.
Potter’s Jewelry
Potter’s Jewelry (714 Center St.) is within walking distance of Broadway Avenue, where most stores are located. Whether you’re hoping to add a gemstone or diamond ring to your jewelry box, you will likely see a sparkling piece beneath the glass case that catches your eye.
The inventory includes pendant, earrings, bracelets, and a classic bridal jewelry.
Admire Artists’ Work at Lee Dam Center for Fine Art
A trip to downtown Marysville is incomplete without touring Lee Dam Center for Fine Art (201 S. 9th St.), but unfortunately, they were closed during my visit. I plan to return for the opportunity to view its exhibitions, which rotate monthly.
The building is a piece of art of its own. Built in 1903, the tall windows cast light indoors on the art gallery and studio workroom.
PRO TIP: Verify the gallery’s hours and current exhibitions prior to visiting.
Relax in Comfort at Trailhead Suites
I love a well-maintained Airbnb that incorporates local history into its thematic design. Trailhead Suites (805 Jackson) is home to two-bedroom suites with full kitchens, tub/shower bathrooms, patio spaces, and front-door parking.
Suite A’s bedrooms include a comfortable queen bed, vanity, blackout curtains, and a small desk. The family room opened up to a dining room, where I used high-speed Wi-Fi to get some work done.
I appreciated that the hosts stocked the kitchen cabinets with essentials for guests to cook a meal or prepare a pot of coffee.
After a full day of exploring, my Airbnb retreat provided the modern, comfortable amenities I’ve come to expect from a rentable home.
PRO TIP: The Airbnb is within walking distance of Blue River Trail. Traveling with a dog? Pets are welcome at Trailhead Suites.
Take a Walk on the Blue River Rail Trail
Nature explorers will appreciate walking the Blue River Rail Trail (8th Street and Jayhawk Road), winding 11.5 miles amongst native trees with views of the river and retired railroad bed. Its manicured gravel trails are accessible for walkers or backroad cyclists to navigate.
I walked some of the trail’s northern edge during the cool early morning hours, enjoying the serenity periodically interrupted by bird sounds.
PRO TIP: Refer to this link to find a trailhead or this page to learn about the annual Pony Express 120 Gravel Dash via the trail.
Watch a Waterfall at Alcove Spring Historic Park
A 6-mile drive outside of town is recommended to view Alcove Spring Historic Park, an area discovered by the Donner party in 1846 on the Oregon Trail.
Despite my best efforts to find it, I wasn’t successful. I followed Apple Map’s directions to Alcove Springs Park, which led me on a curving dirt road outside of town ending near a resident’s property and fenced land.
PRO TIP: Use this link to learn more about the natural spring and how to locate it successfully.
You won’t regret a road trip to check off each of the 10 must-have Marysville experiences.
If you’re interested in traveling to Marysville when a festival brings heightened excitement, consider reserving your lodging before the Mother’s Day Flea Market, Big Blue River Days, Black Squirrel Night, or SkyFest.
As always, please leave your travel questions or suggestions in the comment section below. I’m eager to hear from you.
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While strolling Douglass Avenue downtown, I noted the 1800s architecture and how local businesses are working to maintain its authenticity. What would Wyatt Earp, who allegedly walked these streets in 1873, think of it today?
The coffee shop sits adjacent to an active railroad track and the town’s downtown corridor, a bustling location for locals who stop in for a quick caffeine boost and delicious breakfast.
It was challenging to decide what I wanted to eat from the menu’s extensive list of affordable pub fare options, but I eventually settled on a simple but savory taco salad. We sat in the quiet company of a few locals who also stopped by for a late lunch.
The select-your-meal menu includes beef or chicken sliders or baskets of fried appetizers. Small but big in flavor, my Original Chicken Sliders reminded me of a Chick-fil-A meal. If you’re extra hungry, I suggest ordering extra sliders, as the combo meal with fries is a light lunch.
Of course, we had to try out 900 Club’s indoor golf simulator. The setup is available to the public to practice their swing, and the local high school team is known to use it when outdoor conditions are unfavorable for play.
PRO TIP: Museum-goers who like to stroll the grounds leisurely and its buildings will want to carve out at least two hours for a tour and, of course, allot time to shop the gift shop’s inventory of homemade goods.
I purchased a large container of pure raw honey produced by Sylvan Grove’s Labertew Honey Co., an affordable purchase given its size.
PRO TIP: Prefer to create art rather than shop for it? Check the 
Less than 1,000 people call Wilson home today. The tight-knit community is a welcoming town with a thriving Czech culture and tourism stops, which include a hometown eatery.
One can expect almost a dozen fruit flavors ranging from pumpkin to cherry. The Dutch Apple pie with added vanilla ice cream didn’t disappoint for its flaky crust and extra cinnamon and sugar.
Half of the store is devoted to home decor and gift merchandise, while the other half serves as gallery space featuring Betty Kepka’s artwork. The impressive collection features Czech folk art consisting of mostly handprinted eggs with various patterns. The Wilson native worked as an art teacher.
PRO TIP: The sister boutique to Midland Railroad Hotel, the store features a DIY Plant Bar. Visitors can purchase and build a terrarium using succulent plants. Check their 
Open seven days a week, the store stocks everything from candles and crafts to gift baskets and backed goods. A secondary room’s inventory includes colorful t-shirts of various designs and an assortment of books by Kansas authors.
Each time I visit Lucas, I discover something new to me. The positive messages and vibrant colors of the Lucas Public Library mural caught my eye, and I wasn’t leaving town without taking a selfie photo with the polar bear sitting on a Main Street bench. Yes, a polar bear.
I was enamored by the intricate wheat-weaving creations by Kansas artist Doris Johnson. All of the art is for sale, should you decide to bring home a shadow box featuring pin-cushion figurines, a stained glass window, or a framed photo of a Midwest landscape.
Other fascinating spaces to view while in town include 
The gallery’s featured artists rotate every two months, and the public is invited the 2nd Friday of the month to an exhibition reception. The artists give talks about their work.
PRO TIP: Walk to the gallery’s rear to shop the gift shop for affordable artwork.
PRO TIP: Arrive for dinner when they open. Locals fill up the dining room quickly. Save room for dessert. I wish I had tried the banana pudding or skillet cookie.
After a day of exploring, we sat in the one-time parlor, reading stories of the home’s first residents and the generations that followed. Then, a tour of each room containing family heirlooms completed the family’s story.
We were pleased with the home’s comfortable amenities, including high-speed WiFi, laundry facilities (robes provided!), a walk-in shower with toiletries, and a full kitchen (breakfast pastries and French press coffee, anyone?).
The home sleeps six people. Each bedroom contained a Queen-sized bed with plenty of space to store one’s belongings. We slept peacefully thanks to blackout curtains and the home’s peaceful surroundings.
Families will appreciate the home’s spaciousness and proximity to the park across the street. It’s a safe, lovely neighborhood. 
PRO TIP: Parking in front of the home on the gravel driveway. Read the house manual, located in the kitchen before unpacking.
The ideal accommodation for travelers seeking a beautiful vacation rental that sleeps four people or a business traveler who wants more space and comforts of home than a hotel provides, 
Soft pillows and a floor rug are comfortable additions to the living room, a spot where I snuggled up under a blanket to stream my favorite TV shows as the snow fell outside.
The simplicity of the room’s design provided a clutter-free relaxing experience. When I wasn’t resting peacefully, I streamed a movie from the Roku TV options while nestled under a plush duvet. A cellphone charging station on the bedside table made it a hassle-free experience.
Luxury amenities, including Tommy Bahama bath products, a hair dryer, make-up removal washcloths, and soft white towels conveyed Cozy in KC’s sense of care for the guest experience.
The apartment’s second bedroom was equally spacious providing plenty of room for added guests to feel at home. Like the master bedroom, the walk-in closet included a hangers, a luggage rack, and a soft king-size microfiber blanket.
For those seeking a relaxing soak, the second bathroom’s shower/bathtub combination meets one’s needs. The window streaming natural light and spacious countertop gave it a suite-like feel.
A nearby built-in cabinet provided access to placemats and essential barware.
While staying the weekend, I appreciated the state-of-the-art appliances when preparing breakfast before heading out to explore Shawnee. It was nice to wake up after restful sleep and prepare a pot of tea. If I felt like coffee, I used the K-Duo® Single Serve & Carafe Coffee Maker and the provided coffee grounds.
Known for a gastropub menu of hearty classics ranging from flatbread pizzas to comforting classics like meatloaf, the food arrives at the table artfully plated and tasting delicious. When you go, leave room for towering slice of Carrot Cake or Chocolate Tort.
While you can order to-go food online or have it delivered via Uber Eats (
If you’re not a fan of beer, a selection of wine, cider, Prosecco, and Mom Water are available alternatives. Although they don’t serve food, it’s common to see a food truck parked outside or you can bring your own food to enjoy in the taproom.
Next door, 
The town’s largest mural, painted by artist Jacob Cromer, is located at Johnson Drive and Neiman Road and it’s not to be missed.
For more travel inspiration, read my bonus suggestions for exploring town: 
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Parking is available nearby, and the path to the bridge is easy to navigate.
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.
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.”
At 
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 
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A restored 1908 country home turned 
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.
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.
PRO TIP: Kids get a free used book when they visit, and the monthly book club selections keep shoppers returning for new reads.
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.
In preparation for fall, I noticed an abundance of witchy decor items; however, they may sell similar whimsical gifts year-round.
Seasonal floral picks and sit-a-bouts are arranged in vignettes throughout the store.
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 
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 
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.
What started as a jewelry business evolved into a specialty store selling dishes, apparel, gourmet foods, fresh floral arrangements, and more.
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.
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 
PRO TIP: If you visit Friday-Sunday, stop next door at the 
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.
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.
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.
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.
FESTIVALS AND FAIRS
It’s time you plan a vacation to Madison County, Iowa.
