Winterset, IA

Set in the rolling hills of Madison County about 35 miles southwest of Des Moines, Winterset offers classic small-town living with an easy commute to the metro. Home to roughly 5,400 people, the town is best known as the birthplace of John Wayne and the heart of Iowa's historic covered bridges. Every October, the Covered Bridge Festival brings lively crowds to town, but day to day, it remains a welcoming, close-knit community with a relaxed pace of life.

Life here often centers on the historic courthouse square, which is lined with local shops, casual dining spots, the restored Iowa Theater, and the Iowa Quilt Museum. Just down the road, the 76-acre Winterset City Park offers hiking trails, a campground, the Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge, and great valley views from Clark Tower. With solid local schools, parks along the Middle River, and a direct drive up Highway 169 into Des Moines, Winterset is a great fit for anyone wanting space, character, and easy access to the city.