The Gateway- St. Charles

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The Gateway- St. Charles The Gateway is a beautiful, historic church converted into a venue available for rent year-round. During the summer, the doors are open to visitors.

Visit with our host who will assist you offering maps, brochures, and the St. Charles business directory. This historic landmark was built in 1861 and operated as a Presbyterian church until 1971. Now, the Gateway- Welcome Center and Event Venue is a managed by the St. Charles Gateway Tourism board. It has a two-fold purpose. The venue is available year round for all types of event and/or meeting rentals. It also operates from May through October as a satellite welcome center for the Madison County Chamber of Commerce welcoming visitors to the area.

10/09/2026

🍁 Check out the 2026 Madison County Covered Bridge Festival! 🍁
Join us this weekend for a celebration of history, community, and tradition in Winterset! Here is everything you need to know to plan your visit:
πŸ—“οΈ Festival Hours
β€’ Saturday, Oct 10: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
β€’ Sunday, Oct 11: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Parade at 3:00 PM! 🎈)
🎟️ Admission & Costs
β€’ General Admission: $3.00 per person. Cash only.
β€’ Kids 11 & Under: FREE
✨ Key Highlights & Attractions
β€’ πŸ›οΈ Historic Courthouse Square: Explore 150+ arts, crafts, and food vendors, enjoy live music, and check out old-time demonstrations and kids' activities.
β€’ πŸ›οΈ "History on the Hill" (Historical Complex): Enjoy FREE museum admission, horse & wagon rides, a Civil War camp & skirmishes, and mansion tours. (Sat 11-4 / Sun 11-2 β€’ Free shuttle available from the main grounds!)
β€’ 🚌 Covered Bridge Guided Tours: Take a guided bus tour of our world-famous historic covered bridges, hosted by the Winterset Rotary Club.
β€’ 🏎️ Sunday Car Show: Check out the massive auto show near Winterset Elementary School, hosted by the Central Iowa Auto Club.
🎈 Annual Festival Parade (Sunday!)
β€’ Start Time: 3:00 PM.
β€’ Don't miss out on the grand finale of the festival weekend!

Click on the link below for more specific information about the weekend.
https://www.wintersetmadisonian.com/madison-county-covered-bridge-festival-flyer/

Or pickup a paper flyer at Tiger Lily Cafe, Post Office, The Gateway (11:00 am to 3:00pm Saturday)

We are sorry.  Game On has been cancelled for tomorrow, September 17th.  .  We will be back in October.  Watch for infor...
09/16/2026

We are sorry. Game On has been cancelled for tomorrow, September 17th. . We will be back in October. Watch for information.

Don't miss this great opportunity to save!Luv the Locals!
09/16/2026

Don't miss this great opportunity to save!
Luv the Locals!

The MWEA Fall Festival is moving to  the St. Charles Parish.Entertainment by Clarke Community School Chamber Choir @ 3:0...
09/13/2026

The MWEA Fall Festival is moving to
the St. Charles Parish.
Entertainment by Clarke Community School Chamber Choir @ 3:00pm.
Pork Sandwiches by the Madison County Pork Producers @ 4:00pm
with wonderful sides and desserts by "church ladies."

Upcoming Events to put on your calendars.
09/12/2026

Upcoming Events to put on your calendars.

If you ordered a bridge calendar that featured our Imes Bridge, THEY ARE HERE!We have them at the Welcome Center, and we...
09/04/2026

If you ordered a bridge calendar that featured our Imes Bridge, THEY ARE HERE!
We have them at the Welcome Center, and we are open Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday from 11:00am to 3:00pm if you would like to come pick them up.
The cost was $7.00. We are having to add $1.00 please, to help cover the shipping costs. Total cost then is $8.00 per calendar.

Put this event on your calendar!!
09/03/2026

Put this event on your calendar!!

Welcome the Madison Warren Ecumenical Association  to St. Charles and enjoy an afternoon of music and good food.Music is...
09/02/2026

Welcome the Madison Warren Ecumenical Association to St. Charles and enjoy an afternoon of music and good food.
Music is provided by the Clarke Community High School Chamber Choir. Pork sandwiches are offered by the Madison County Pork Producers. Cheesy potatoes, salads, and desserts are provided by the MWEA. Everyone is invited to come and partake.

Address

202 E. Main Street
Saint Charles, IA
50240

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