10 Things to Do During Lavender Festival Weekend in Madison County
Our Lavender Festival is more than an epic visit to the farm. It's the perfect excuse for a weekend getaway in beautiful Madison County, Iowa.
While you're enjoying the blooming lavender fields at PepperHarrow, we invite you to explore the charming shops, cafés, restaurants, and attractions that make our community so special. From unique shopping experiences and delicious local food to historic landmarks and scenic parks, there is plenty to discover before and after your visit to the farm.
The Lavender Trail
This year, several local businesses are joining in the Lavender Festival fun by offering special lavender-inspired products, treats, displays, and promotions throughout festival weekend.
As you explore Madison County, be sure to stop by participating locations including:
Along the way at these stops, you may discover:
Lavender-inspired menu items and treats
Special lavender products and gifts
Lavender-themed clothing, décor, and unique finds
Complimentary lavender surprises at select locations
Beautiful lavender-themed window displays throughout town
It's the perfect way to continue the lavender experience while supporting the wonderful local businesses that help make Madison County such a special destination.
Start Your Morning on the historic town Square
Begin your day with coffee and a fresh pastry from Petite Café, located right on the historic Winterset Square and after breakfast, spend some time strolling through the square's charming boutiques, museums, gift shops, antique stores, galleries, and specialty retailers. The square is one of Iowa's most picturesque downtown districts and offers plenty of opportunities to discover something unique.
Visit the Lavender Fields
Of course, the centerpiece of your weekend is Lavender Festival at PepperHarrow Farm. Starting at 9:00AM each day and ending at 3:00PM, wander through thousands of blooming lavender plants, enjoy artisan vendors, demonstrations, food and beverages, shopping, flower crown making, scavenger hunt, and stunning photo opportunities throughout the farm.
Our fields are surrounded by rolling countryside, making it the perfect place to slow down, breathe deeply, and experience the beauty of summer in Iowa. Bring along a blanket or folding chair, a good book, and relax and take it all in.
Enjoy Lunch, Dinner, and Local Drinks
At the festival, grab a coffee from The Bean, Freeboard Coffee Co for breakfast and lunch from Chick-Fil-A, a pre-ordered lunch from Tangerine Food Company. Need a fun, sweet treat? The Outside Scoop, Marie Bakes, or Prairie Rose Desserts are great places to stop and get your fix.
Or, after your visit to the farm, continue your adventure with some of Madison County's favorite dining destinations. Enjoy a meal and local beverages at restaurants around the Winterset Square, or venture out to one of our local wineries, where you can relax with a glass of wine while enjoying the scenic countryside.
Breakfast, Coffee & Lunch
Petite Cafe — Coffee, pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and light lunch options. A perfect stop before heading to the farm.
Harvest Market — A great option for breakfast or lunch on the Winterset square, featuring fresh-made meals and local products.
Lunch, Dinner & Drinks
The Drift — One of Winterset's most popular gathering spots, serving craft beer, wine, cocktails, sandwiches, salads, appetizers, and Sunday brunch.
Urban On The Square — A cozy downtown restaurant known for elevated comfort food and seasonal menu offerings. Great for lunch or a relaxed dinner.
Mi Pueblito — A local favorite for Mexican cuisine, including fajitas, burritos, enchiladas, and margaritas.
China Cafe — Offers Chinese and Vietnamese dishes with generous portions and quick service.
Casual Family Dining
Urban Taproom and Grill — Family-friendly atmosphere with brick oven pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, and craft beer.
The Sports Page — Casual American fare with a sports-bar atmosphere.
A Fun Local Classic
Frostee's — A classic Iowa drive-in known for tenderloins, burgers, onion rings, ice cream, malts, and summer treats.
Lavender themed beverages from the Petite Cafe.
Explore the Covered Bridges
No visit to Madison County would be complete without seeing the famous Covered Bridges of Madison County.
Known as Iowa's covered bridge capital, Madison County is home to six historic covered bridges that draw visitors from around the world. These iconic landmarks provide beautiful photo opportunities and offer a glimpse into the area's rich history.
Photo courtesy of Explore Madison County
Get Outside and Explore
If you're looking to spend more time outdoors, visit some of Madison County Conservation’s beautiful parks and trails.
Pammel State Park offers scenic hiking trails, limestone bluffs, shaded picnic areas and be sure to check out the new Conservation Center.
Another option is to check out Winterset City Park, which features the historic Clark Tower, the Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge, hedge maze, stone bridge, and an award-winning inclusive playground.
Note: the main entrance to Pammel State Park is closed, so you will need to enter from an alternate route from Hwy 169 to Carver Road.
It's a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty that makes this area so beloved.
Discover Local History
History enthusiasts won't want to miss two of Winterset's most popular attractions.
Visit the John Wayne Birthplace & Museum to learn about one of America's most famous actors, born right here in Winterset. Then stop by the Iowa Quilt Museum, which showcases incredible textile artistry and rotating exhibits from quilters across the country.
Also, check out The Carver Park. It was dedicated 25 years ago to memorialize the inspiring story of this well-known American citizen. This little pocket park stands next to the former hotel where he worked (which is now the Winterset Fire Station) and includes a memorial marker, five new interpretive panels, picnic benches, and a short walkway.
Make It a Weekend to Remember
Whether you're visiting for a few hours or planning a full weekend getaway, Lavender Festival offers the perfect opportunity to experience everything Madison County has to offer.
From fragrant lavender fields and charming local shops to historic landmarks, delicious food, and scenic countryside, we hope you'll take some time to explore beyond the farm and discover why so many visitors fall in love with this special corner of Iowa.
We'll see you in the lavender fields!
XX Jenn + Adam
