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quilt

The Heart of Iowa: Discover Charming Madison County

September 11, 2023 by Vanessa Whiteside 2 Comments

 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.

Winterset, 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.

Roseman BridgeSpending 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.

Tea Room Menu
The Italian Beef sandwich and the Soup of the Day

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.

Tea Room Winterset IowaI 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.

Tea Room Dining 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.

Clark TowerA 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.

Chainsaw SculptureAnother 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.Hedge MazeNearby Bennett Cabin and Cutler-Donahue Bridge, each built in the 1800s, are photo-worthy attractions.Old CabinSeek out the stone bridge for another photo moment. It’s the location where Robert and Francesca’s movie scene was filmed.

Stone BridgePRO 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.

Covered Bridge Madison County City ParkSpanning 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.

Holliwell Bridge Madison County IowaParking 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.

Wine TastingAfter 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.Wine AwardsWhether 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.”

Covered Bridges Winery
While inside the tasting room, take note of the artwork on the walls created by locals. Even the outline of the picture window resembles a covered bridge.

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.

Winterset CideryAt 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.Winterset CideryDuring 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.

Winterset Cidery InteriorPRO 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).

Hogback BridgeYou’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.

Cedar BridgeUnfortunately, 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.John Wayne BirthplaceHe 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 MuseumJohn 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.

John Wayne ArtifactsThe 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.John Wayne Museum TheaterI 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.

coffee mugsPRO 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.Community GardenI 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.Monumental ParkModern 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.George Washington Carver

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.Freedom RockAn 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.

Winterset Art Alley

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.Charcuterie Board at The DriftWe 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.Salad at The DriftPRO 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.SunsetA 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.

Living RoomA 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.

House StairsThe 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.

KitchenThe 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.Apple Fritter

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.Downtown

DUTCH COUNTRY GENERAL STORE

Dutch Country General Store (72 E. Court Ave., Winterset) is a retail space selling little of everything.General StoreFrom 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.Groceries

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.Row Your Goat

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.

Brick Road BooksPRO 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.Whompy Bear BoutiqueThe 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.Harvest CreekIn 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.Pine Creek LtdSeasonal 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.Welcome Center Gifts

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.Spoons Full of SugarMost 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.Clothing BoutiquePRO 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.Plant StoreI 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.

Floral ArrangementsPRO 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.Madison County WineryWe 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.

Madison County Winery GrapesI 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.

Imes Bridge

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.” The Farmstand by Manastash MercantileWhat 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 SaintsWayward 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.

QuiltsOn 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.

Quilt ExhibitPRO 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.

Roseman BridgePRO 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.Wallace Centers of IowaUpon 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.

White PizzaLive 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.

ArtThe 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.”

MusiciansPRO 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.Petite CafeThe 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.

Pastries
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.

Downtown Mural

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.

Montross Pharmacy 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.

Pammel State Park EntranceOnly 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.

Pammel ParkThe 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.

Iowa TheaterFESTIVALS 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.

Covered Bridge

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.

Courthouse
Built in 1876, the Madison County Courthouse was designed by French-born architect Alfred Piquenard. The bell, pictured here, was removed in 2011.

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.

AntiquesIt’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.

 

 

Filed Under: Iowa, Travel Tagged With: Airbnb, apple, apple fritter, architecture, bakery, boutiques, brewery, bridge, charcuterie, cidery, City Park, country roads, courthouse, covered bridges, Des Moines, farm, film, general store, Hawkeye, heartland, Iowa, John Wayne, Madison County, McIntosh, novel, Orient, Pammel Park, pizza, prairie, quilt, rivers, St. Charles, tea room, wineries, Winterset

Winfield, Kansas: Day Trip Ideas for a Guaranteed Good Time

May 31, 2022 by Vanessa Whiteside 2 Comments

Disclosure: Visit Winfield sponsored this post. However, all opinions and photographs are my own.

The residents of Winfield have a good reason to be proud of their Kansas town. Now that I’ve experienced it first-hand, I’d say there are more than enough reasons to love the town.

Less than an hour from Wichita, Winfield is a fun day trip destination for families, couples, or solo travelers. I arrived early Saturday morning and the town was just coming alive.

Winfield KansasOutdoor enthusiasts love it for its recreational options. It sits on the edge of the Flint Hills and near waterways in Cowley County. Shoppers appreciate the downtown corridors for the town’s long list of boutiques and retail stores. I discovered noteworthy dining while spending the day in Winfield as well.

WALNUT VALLEY FARMERS MARKET

I could hear the bluegrass band playing as I approached the parking lot that was dotted with merchants under covered tents. It made perfect sense that bluegrass music set the backdrop for the opening day of Walnut Valley Farmers Market near Island Park. Winfield is home to the Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festival where people far and wide have arrived at the Flat-Picking Championships to hear the best musicians play every September. The market’s scene was set.

Walnut Valley Farmers MarketFarmers MarketDuring the opening day of the market, I purchased a baked lemon loaf and walked away with a jar of preserves. Other vendors sold seasonal produce, leather goods, jewelry, soaps, and gifts.

PRO TIP: Bring cash to the market. Not all vendors accept credit cards. Don’t try to park adjacent to the vendor booths, which are reserved for them. Parking is available across the street.

COLLEGE HILL COFFEE

I made the short drive to College Hill Coffee (403 Soward St.) in desperate need of caffeine with a side of breakfast.

The coffee shop is located in a residential neighborhood and draws locals for its relaxed vibe. People sit on patio tables on the front porch or at tables inside what is a converted old house. It feels homey and comforting like someone invited you over for breakfast.

College Hill CoffeeFrom the breakfast options I could see from within the glass case, I chose a slice of Farmers Quiche to go with a steaming cup of cappuccino. It was made from delicious ingredients and had a flaky crust. It hit the spot.

I took time to enjoy the meal from a quiet spot inside the converted house. The walls were adorned with local artists’ work and a small amount of retail (bagged coffee, jewelry, and artwork) is for sale. Music played from the room’s speakers and a cool spring breeze passed through open windows.

When in Winfield, promise yourself you’ll stop at College Hill Coffee. You can order from a window on the porch (seating available!) or dine inside. They serve breakfast all day and menu choices range from waffles and avocado toast to breakfast sandwiches and baked goods. Stop in for a salad or cup of soup at lunchtime.

PRO TIP: Order a dessert to go. I recommend a soft snickerdoodle cookie.

ELAM’S LAVENDER AND HONEY BEE FARM

Do you love the smell of lavender?  You can pick your own $5 lavender bundle at Elam’s Lavender and Honey Bee Farm (5226 142nd Rd) which opened recently to the public. Simply borrow a pair of scissors, snip a bundle, and head to the retail store to make a purchase.

lavender fieldI learned from Rick about the numerous plant varieties and the growing habits of lavender as we walked the property. The farm has 28 varieties and he plans to add 15 more in due time. His family is dedicated to providing lavender to as many people who want it.

lavender They grow lavender from seedlings inside a greenhouse and eventually move it outside to be planted in rows. What started as something to do in Rick’s retirement has blossomed into a farm where the public can come out and experience it for themselves.

Why pick your own lavender? You can use it in your cooking, home decor, craft projects, and the oil can be used in soaps.

 I was excited to borrow a pair of scissors and sip stems. Afterward, I took my bundle to a farm employee at a cart who added a rubber band to it and directed me to the retail shop to pay $5 for the lavender. The process is easy and one you’ll appreciate.

When in Winfield, drive to 5226 142nd Rd, a short drive from downtown to the farm. Follow the lavender scent.

PRO TIP: Follow the farm’s Facebook page to learn about upcoming You Pick events.

THE FARM AT QUAIL VALLEY

The Farm at Quail Valley (934 194th Dr.) isn’t just an event center located outside of town used for weddings and large events. It’s also the site of the #1 disc golf course in Kansas that is also ranked #58 in the world. For disc golfers, it’s the holy grail of courses.

The Farm at Quail ValleyThe 18-hole course is casually referred to as The Beast because of its challenging design that includes many opportunities to potentially lose one’s discs in water hazards and challenging holes. Designed by disc golf world champion Eric McCabe, the course often hosts tournaments.

disc golf coursewedding venueShady tree-covered areas and tall grass surround fairways. The meticulous maintenance of the course makes it a beautiful setting. Each hole has two tee boxes made with turf pads. The basket placement ranges. Some baskets sit under trees near a water’s edge, others are hidden in cleared areas around trees, while others are located more in the open. For example, Hole 8’s basket is elevated atop a mound of sand and large tires.

disc golf basketDuring my tour, I learned that golfers could arrive during course hours and pay cash using the honors system inside a converted train railcar or pay online. Inside the rail car retail shop, you can also purchase new discs. The course was technical and challenging, especially as a new disc golfer. Be prepared to look for baskets that have been moved and don’t always match what UDisc app shows.

The farm invites campers to pitch a tent or pull up an RV for overnight accommodations for a small fee. If you feel like fishing in one of the small lakes, you can drop a line after registering to fish.

PRO TIP:  See a video overview of the course by clicking this link. Upon arrival at the farm, follow the gravel road until you reach a parking lot near the event center. Walk to the green railcar to pay to play the course.

SHINDIGS BAR & GRILL

It was time for lunch, and I was famished. I drove back to Shindigs Bar & Grill (500 Main St.) and found a seat at the bar. The friendly bartender welcomed me and told me about the day’s specials, which included a dollar off a pint of beer, but there was a catch. We had to walk upstairs to “reverse pour it” from a 57 Chevy Truck. I was all in.

chevroletShe added a magnet to the bottom of the glass, set it on a base, and added pressure. Suddenly, the pint glass began to fill with beer from the bottom up. It was quite a sight.

Before we headed back downstairs to the bar, she excitedly gave me a tour of the upstairs dining room, pointing out refurbished railroad relics in the interior design. The outdoor patio was a showstopper. Traffic stoplights hung overhead patio tables, and from that vantage point, dinners could look down over the town’s train rails.

patioBack at the bar, I enjoyed the Smokey Turkey Club with onion rings with a side of sauce for dipping. It was made from top-quality ingredients and tasted delicious. In fact, everything on the menu looked crave-worthy.

lunchSporting events played on TVs as patrons filled the dining room. The bartender told me how the family, who has owned the restaurant for several years, sandblasted and reused industrial items to decorate the space. The entire restaurant almost felt partially like a museum, from the rustic chandeliers to the hostess stand.

PRO TIP: The design inside the bathrooms is a must-see. Trust me. When walking through the restaurant, look up, look down, and take time to appreciate the smaller design touches.

DOWNTOWN SHOPPING

Winfield’s downtown corridor is dotted with at least a dozen retail shops worth checking out. It’s a haven for shoppers searching for locally-made items, antiques, and outdoor recreation stores.

I strolled into The Junk Generation (420 S. Main St.) and met the owner, who told me about her love of curating primitive antiques to sell at the store. The inventory included handpicked new items creating the perfect mix. Seasonal displays simplified holiday shopping.

The Junk GenerationThe store is a gem for shoppers on the hunt for one-of-a-kind pieces who don’t want to pay big-city prices.

PRO TIP: Store hours vary. View the store’s hours via the Facebook page before driving to shop there.

Walnut Valley Outpost (107 E. 7th Ave.) is a hub for gravel cycling and road biking. It is the kind of place where cyclists gather to swap stories and offer tidbits of advice. The shop also offers basic bike tune-ups and tire services.

In the market for a new bike? The owner is happy to educate shoppers on the models available for sale. Gravel cycling is popular in this area of the state, so she is your go-to expert on riding in the area and often hosts rides and events throughout the year.

PRO TIP: Ask about the option to rent a bike in the area. The owner stocks bikes for touring the town on two wheels. The store is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Snappy Chicks Boutique (1019 Main St.) is where ladies shop for jewelry and clothing apparel in Winfield. They specialize in interchangeable snap jewelry, so you can create customizable bracelets, necklaces, keychains, and more. Customers pick out a jewelry piece and select the snaps for it.

PRO TIP: If you have a custom snap design using a personal photo, ask Leslie or Marla to create it on the spot. It takes only minutes to prepare it for you.

Snappy Chicks BoutiqueThe staff at Field to Fabric Quilt Company (907 Main St.) is passionate about quilting, just like their customers. The shop is located on the Kansas Barn Quilt Trail Map and is featured in the All Kansas & Nebraska Shop Hop magazine. Known for carrying a large selection of cotton fabric, notions, and floss, it’s one-stop shopping. Beginners and veteran quilters can take advantage of on-site classes.

PRO TIP: Walk down to The Great Hall of Quilts to see handcrafted masterpieces.

quilt shop

GOTTLOB LAWN & LANDSCAPE

Calling all gardeners and green thumbs! Gottlob Lawn & Landscape (5001 E. 9th Ave.) is more than a landscape center. Inside, the retail shop carries a large selection of healthy houseplants, gardening tools, and unique gifts tailored for people who can’t get enough plants.

plant storeI also appreciated the outdoor gardens with walkable paths that lead underneath arched to whimsical spaces and greenhouses. If you’re shopping for herbs, native plants, and hardscaping options, or just need to talk shop about lawn care, Gottlob is where you go.

garden centerPRO TIP: Follow the Facebook page to stay current about monthly sales and upcoming events. Owner Alex Gottlob has big plans for developing an outdoor patio where guests can relax in a serene setting. Ask about picking wildflowers to place in a mason jar, $5.

BADGER CREEK STONE ARCH BRIDGE

Cowley County is home to 18 stone arch bridges, and since Gottlob’s was only a little over three miles from Badger Creek Stone Arch Bridge (13814 196th Rd.) I made the journey. During the 1800s, Walter Sharp was a bridge builder who used native stone to construct one hundred bridges in Kansas.

As I drove the damp dirt road, the road curved to the left before I pulled over for the bridge. It was difficult to navigate the embankment to get a photo of the bridge, but the view in both directions from on top of it was nice. The water was traveling quickly from recent rains.

PRO TIP: View a map of the self-guided tour using this brochure.

bridge

LADYBIRD BREWING COMPANY

I discovered a new stop on the Kansas craft beer trail at Ladybird Brewing Company (523 Main St). Located in a converted gas station, the brewery serves a rotation of ales typically featuring regionally sourced ingredients.

ladybird brewing companyPeople drive from out of town to visit the brewery open Thursday-Saturday. The shaded patio and indoor seating areas were filled with craft beer drinkers. Inside, you can select from 6-8 beers on tap.

I couldn’t decide which beer I wanted, so I created a flight of 3 oz pours. Cool Mom Pomegranate Saison was a winner. But honestly, I enjoyed all of the beer in the flight.

craft beerThe brewery doesn’t serve food, but snacks were available for purchase. The vibe was relaxing as alternative music played in the background.

PRO TIP: Look for the cornhole boards on the patio to enjoy a friendly game while you sip on suds.

LUIGI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Hungry for a bite to eat before driving back to Wichita, I chose Luigi’s Italian Restaurant (124 E 9th Ave.), located down the street and around the corner from the brewery. A few locals recommended the fettuccini alfredo with chicken or the homemade pizza. I chose the pasta ($10.95), a large portion served alongside a basket of complimentary garlic bread.

Luigi'sThe prices were affordable, and the staff consistently visited the table to check on me. Other menu options ranged from baked pasta like lasagna and manicotti to stromboli sandwiches and meatball subs. In search of lighter fare? Order a Greek or caesar salad.

PRO TIP: Ask about the daily specials and wine by the glass. Six desserts are listed on the menu, including cheesecake, cannolis, and tiramisu.

pastaMy trip to Winfield was long overdue. When I told friends I was traveling to the area, everyone had good things to say about the Cowley County town. It turns out they were right. Winfield is wonderful. I know you’ll also appreciate a day trip to explore its many treasures. 

mural in winfield kansasOn my next visit to Winfield and the surrounding area, I plan to stop at Wheat State Wine Co. to take a driving tour of historic homes, and I want to rent a bike from Walnut Valley Outpost and ride along the levee trail.

downtown WinfieldHave you visited Winfield or attended the Walnut Valley Festival? Leave your comments below to provide your travel suggestions for the area.

Winfield

 

Filed Under: Kansas, Travel Tagged With: agritourism, antiques, bar & grill, beer, bluegrass, bluegrass music, boutiques, brewery, bridge, coffee shop, Cowley County, craft beer, disc golf, farm, farmers market, garden, gardening, Italian food, Kansas, lavender, Main Street, pasta, quiche, quilt, railroad, South Central Kansas, venue, vintage, Winfield

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Hello! I'm Vanessa. Welcome to One Delightful Life, a blog created to add more delight to your life with delicious recipes, travel destinations, and lifestyle improvement ideas. Thanks for exploring my blog!

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