Winterset is a small city in Iowa filled with beautiful outdoor scenery, historical attractions, and a variety of restaurants, bars, galleries and entertainment venues. Established in 1851, Winterset is best known for being the hometown of the author of “The Bridges of Madison County”, Robert James Waller. It is also the birthplace of actor John Wayne and the setting for his eponymous movie. In addition, Winterset is home to several parks and wildlife refuges, as well as a variety of entertainment and cultural activities.
1. Winterset Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
Winterset has many parks and nature reserves for couples to wander. A great place to start is the John Wayne Birthplace Museum and its surrounding park, which offers walking paths and views of the surrounding countryside. Nearby, the Summerset State Park is another great place to explore the area’s natural beauty, with hiking trails and a variety of native plants and animals. The covered bridges of Madison County are a popular tourist attraction and a great place to take a romantic walk, too.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Winterset
The cozy city of Winterset has a variety of places to enjoy coffee and conversation with your date. For something unique, visit the Coon Rock Cafe, located in the town square, where classic diner style fare meets modern coffee bar goodness. If you’re looking for something a bit more relaxed and upscale, try Cafe 4, a wine and cheese bar located in town. Or, for a more traditional coffee date, head over to the historic Central Hotel Coffee Shop for a cup of coffee and a bite to eat.
3. Winterset Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Winterset has an array of cultural attractions for couples to explore. The Winterset Art Center, located in town, offers rotating exhibitions of works from regional and international artists. The Madison County Historical Museum is another great option, with interactive displays and exhibits that showcase the area’s history. The John Wayne Birthplace Museum is a must-see for film buffs and history buffs alike, with exhibits and artifacts dedicated to the life and career of the movie star.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Winterset
If you’re looking for an entertaining night out on your first date, Winterset has a range of live music and entertainment venues. Check out The Blue Moon Café on the town square for great music and drinks in an intimate setting. At the John Wayne Theater, catch a live performance of one of the classic Westerns made famous by The Duke himself. Or, head over to the Winterset Community Center for a night filled with live music, dancing, and more.
5. Winterset Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
For couples looking for a more casual night out, Winterset has plenty of pubs, bars, and restaurants to choose from. The Main Street Pub & Grill is a local favorite for drinks and American-style comfort food. For a romantic dinner, the Linn Street Café is a great option, with cozy seating and a menu of excellent Italian dishes. For an evening drink, be sure to check out the Corner Pub and Grill, a cozy bar with live music, a variety of beer, and pub grub.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Winterset
Winterset is full of fun and unique date ideas. During the warmer months, outdoor activities like bike rides, kayaking, or a trip to the nearby fishing pond are great options. Or, take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride around town or explore the surrounding hiking trails. For a bit of history and culture, take a guided tour of the area’s covered bridges and explore the nearby John Wayne Birthplace Museum.
