Situated less than an hour southeast of Des Moines is Winterset, located in Madison County, where the famous actor John Wayne was born. With a population of less than six thousand people, Winterset presents ample opportunity to tour the area at a relaxed pace and enjoy many attractions free of crowds. Winterset hotels and area lodging afford visitors plenty of excellent amenities at a lower cost than big city hotels and an extra helping of small town friendliness. Famous for it's picturesque covered bridges, the blockbuster film The Bridges of Madison County was filmed in the stunning region. With plenty of history to take in, Winterset is ideal for exploring more of the state's past, evident throughout the region.

If you're looking for Winterset motels, the Super 8 is one of only two in the area. Close to the major highways leading into town, cheap lodging in Winterset is a great way to offset other vacation costs while enjoying one of the most stunning regions in Iowa. Cycling, hiking, and pleasant walks are ideal at nearby Badger Creek State Park, Lake Anquabi State Park, and Pammel State Park. Blank Park Zoo makes a great outing for the entire family while nearby Des Moines offers many more terrific attractions to explore.

A second option for Winterset motels is the Village View, located near the junction of highways 92 and 169. The Village View Motel offers guest a good assortment of amenities including satellite cable TV, VCR and DVD options, in-room air conditioning for hot summer days, daily maid visits, and non-smoking rooms. Offering a total of only sixteen rooms, a stay at the Village View Motel is a quiet experience lending a nice atmosphere to the already serene quality the area puts forth. If you happen to be traveling with Rover, or any other pet, you'll be more than welcome at this area motel. For guest convenience, which comes in handy in a county where everything is spread out, there is an ATM bank machine onsite as well as a complimentary hot coffee to get you started in the a.m.

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Though Winterset is one of the most famous places in Iowa with a number of fun things to do and it's only shortcoming is the smaller choice in accommodation. More options for Winterset motels, hotels, and other lodging choices can be found around the city limits. A great alternative when looking for Winterset motels is the Brass Lantern Bed and Breakfast, a little over a half hour drive from Winterset proper in Greenfield. Built on twenty stunning, panoramic acres, the Brass Lantern combines luxury with convenience. The large indoor pool, complete with garden terrace, and accommodation options reveal all the charm and grace of this century home. Private baths, warm fireplaces, luxury linens, and exquisite furnishings makes it easy to forget that there are relatively few choices for Winterset hotels. The Brass Lantern is an ideal choice for setting a romantic mood when visiting the area's captivating covered bridges.

Car rentals can be very useful when visiting Winterset. Though it's a very beautiful town, the attractions are not within walking distance. When looking for cheap lodging in Winterset, consider looking in the surrounding towns and cities where a car rental is the ultimate tool for sightseeing. De Soto Iowa, only a half hour drive from Winterset, affords visitors a few more accommodation choices. Instead of finding cheap lodging in Winterset, visitors have the option of arranging accommodation in De Soto at the charming Countryside Inn. The inn is close to plenty of great shopping at Jordon Creek Town Center and excellent dining options close enough to drive to yet far enough away that noise is never an issue. The area offers visitors an intriguing art's scene and scenic drives along the Historic Valley Junction.

Winterset accommodations put forth a chance for visitors to explore this beautiful area and a host of striking vistas. The Covered Bridge Festival, one of the major county events happening annually in October, is really the only time of year that Winterset motels, area bed and breakfasts and other nearby lodging choices should be booked in advance. Winterset City Park, an 80-acre public park is one of the top area attractions. Clark Tower, a limestone, castle-like tower, is the top draw inside the park. Don't let the lack of Winterset hotels deter you from visiting the area. Instead, opt for nearby hotels and arrange a car rental to get around. If you happen to be a John Wayne fan, don't miss a visit to his childhood home, a charming four-bedroom house located near the center of Winterset.