The bridges of Madison County aren’t just one of Iowa’s highlight attractions—they were also the inspiration behind the acclaimed novel and Hollywood film of the same name. Get to know the bridges—and follow in the footsteps of Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood—on this private tour. Pick from multiple daily departure times, and set off from the Madison County Chamber of Commerce. You’ll visit several of the covered bridges (which are on the National Register of Historic Places), drop by former film sets, and more.
- Visit the bridges of Madison County, and learn all about their history
- See film sets and follow in Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood’s footsteps
- A private tour lets you customize the itinerary to suit your interests
- Get up close and personal with some of Iowa’s most distinctive landmarks
What To Expect
Madison County Chamber of Commerce & Welcome Center
Meet your tour guide at the Welcome Center, located on Winterset’s courthouse square. Your guide will tell you briefly about the history of Winterset and Madison County, and the 1876 limestone courthouse at the town’s center.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Roseman Bridge
Explore the Roseman Covered Bridge, one of two bridges featured in the movie “The Bridges of Madison County”, starring Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep. Built in 1883, the Roseman spans Middle River and is thought by some to be haunted. The Roseman is a perfect example of the flat-roofed covered bridges that are unique to Madison County.
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Cutler-Donahoe Bridge
One of the six remaining covered bridges of Madison County, the Cutler-Donahoe was moved to City Park in Winterset in 1970 on its 100th birthday. City Park also features an English hedge maze, a stone bridge (featured in the movie “The Bridges of Madison County”), and one of Iowa’s often cited hidden gems, Clark Tower (a three-story stone monument that resembles a castle).
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Holliwell Bridge
Explore the Holliwell Covered Bridge, the second of the two bridges featured in the movie “The Bridges of Madison County”, starring Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep. Built in 1880, it is the longest of Madison County’s covered bridges, spanning 110 feet over Middle River. Be sure to view this beautiful bridge from the river bank.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Highlight
Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
Wheelchair accessible
Stroller accessible
This tour takes place using the traveler’s own vehicle and gas.
Service animals allowed
Wear and tear on the vehicle is not the responsibility of the tour guide
Must have a proper seat and seat belt available for your tour guide
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Be prepared for uneven surfaces at the sites visited which may be difficult for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
Transportation is wheelchair accessible
Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Most travelers can participate
This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
Max group – 10
