Madison (Indiana)

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Madison is a city along the Ohio River in Southern Indiana. It is the county seat of Jefferson County, Indiana. Madison is surrounded by scenic limestone bluffs. The hills are tree-covered and the farmlands are fertile. Many of the grand homes and historic commercial buildings are still in use. The past co-exists with the present in perfect harmony. Madison has been recognized as offering one of the highest qualities of life in the state. This is evident by its designation as one of 12 Distinctive Destinations of 2001 by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Madison has a population of approximately 12,000 people with approximately 32,000 people residing within Jefferson County (2017). The county has some of the finest schools in the state as well as Hanover College, a nationally ranked liberal arts school. There is also an active and thriving cultural movement in the community that includes art festivals, museums, theater, music, entertainment, and numerous local craftsmen and artisans.
Jefferson County is home to one of Indiana’s most beautiful state parks, Clifty Falls. This lush 1200-acre park offers scenic vista, four waterfalls and many hiking trails. Southern Indiana is also a nationally recognized wine region and three award-winning wineries are located within Jefferson County. Madison is also known as an antique mecca in the Midwest. Numerous specialty shops, unique restaurants and quaint B&Bs compliment the historic downtown.

Get in

See

Entertainment

Madison 6

address: 744 Jefferson Ct
First-run current movies.
Hanover College SportsTeams in football, basketball and baseball.
Hanover College Theatre

phone: +1 812-866-7264
Delight in the sights and sounds of outstanding musical and dramatic performances. Tickets required. Please call for more information.
Ohio Theatre

address: 105 E. Main St
Affordably priced current & classic movies in Madison’s historic theatre. Everyday matinee & evening show. Late show Friday & Saturday.

Events

Ohio River Valley Folk FestivalMid May Two-day folk spectacular. Top fold musicians, storytellers and craftsmen along the Riverfront. Concerts, storytimes, food & fun for the entire family. Coincides with the Madison in Bloom garden tour. Annual event.
Madison Regatta

phone: +1 812-265-5000
Early July Unlimited hydroplane race, boat racing over 200 mph, testing and qualifying, fireworks, music on the banks of the Ohio River, 10K run and race. Admission charged. Annual event.
Madison RibberFest

phone: +1 812-265-2956
Mid August Two-day treat for the taste buds. Madison’s Indiana State barbecue cook-off held along the Riverfront. Blues music, balloon races, food & fun for the entire family. Annual event.

Railroads

Madison Railroad

address: 1121 W. JPG Woodfill Rd, Bldg #216
Madison Railroad operates a 25-mile mainline extending from Madison to North Vernon. The railroad is rich in history, operating the remaining segment of Indiana’s oldest rail line.

Wineries

Lanthier Winery

phone: +1 812-273-2409

address: 123 Mill St
‘A far away feeling... close enough to taste’. French country gardens, art gallery, gift shop and handcrafted award-winning wines await guests at Madison’s oldest winery. Sample wine and pick up an event schedule.
Madison Vineyards

phone: +1 812-273-6500

address: 1456 E. 400 North
International award winning wines. Free tastings. Beautiful setting. Bed & Breakfast.
The Thomas Family Winery

phone: +1 812-273-3755

address: 208 E. Second St
Offering traditional wines and ciders, old world breads and cheeses in a pub-style setting.

Do

Driving & riding tours

Chief White Eye Trail

phone: +1 812-839-4101

address: Canaan
This drive through the rolling hills, farmland and forests of the eastern portion of Jefferson County is magnificent during spring and Fall. The Kremer House (1850) in Canaan, is open by appointment and operated by The Canaan Restoration Council.
Heritage TrailThe Heritage Trail is a paved pathway for biking, hiking and rollerblading. The trail connects downtown Madison with the hilltop and overlooks the Ohio River. Open dawn to dusk 2002.
John Hunt Morgan Heritage Trail

phone: +1 812-686-6410 Ext 5
The 185-mile trail follows the footsteps of Confederate Raider John Hunt Morgan's 2000 men and horses. Part of the route traverses Jefferson County and is highlighted with a campsight in Dupont. Indiana's most significant American Civil War event.
Madison Area Bicycle ClubWhatever you want in a ride, it's all right here. Flat farmland. Challenging hills. Back roads and river views. Ridges and valleys. No wonder Outside Magazine said we have the best bike ride in Indiana. Rides, maps, special events. "Because riding should be fun!"
Ohio River Scenic BywayDesignated a National Scenic Byway, this portion of the scenic drive hugs the river's edge among picturesque hills and valleys surrounding the majestic Ohio River. The Madison Area Convention and Visitors Bureau can assist you with additional information.

Golf

Clifty Golf Range

phone: +1 812-273-9339

address: 3323 West IN 56 (jct 56/62), Hanover
Driving range, 18-hole miniature golf. Fun for the whole family.
Cozy Acres Golf Complex

address: 4040 N. Old SR 62
9-hole course, mini-golf course, driving range, pro shop.
Spring Hills Golf Course

phone: +1 812-866-4727

address: 4766 W. Butler Falls Dr
18-hole golf course, beautiful country setting, some of the best greens in Southern Indiana. Open daily, 6AM-6PM; off-season varies.
Sunrise Golf Course

address: 2136 Michigan Rd
18-holes, par 72, 6245 yards. Full service pro shop, motorized rental carts, snack bar & grill.

Parks

Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

address: 1661 W. JPG Niblo Rd
Big Oaks NWR has been designated as a Globally Important Bird Area because of its value to migratory birds. Located on 50,000 acres five miles north of Madison on US 421 (on the closed Jefferson Proving Ground). Portions of the refuge are open for wildlife observation, photography, fishing, hunting, interpretation, and environmental education. Apr-Nov: Mon & Fri, 2nd & 4th Sats. Mandatory briefing and Access fee permit required ($3 daily, $15 annual); fee waived for holders of migratory bird stamps, golden age pass, golden access pass, and golden eagle pass.
Clifty Falls State Park, One mile west of town on IN 56 and 62, +1 812-273-8885, . Whether you are an avid wildlife watcher, hiker, or enjoy the great outdoors, this magnificent state park has something for everyone. The park offers several picnic areas, a nature center offering seasonal programs, an Olympic Size swimming pool, RV and primitive campsites. Hikers can enjoy trails ranging from “easy” to “rugged” and behold deeply cut gorges, sheer rock walls and plunging waterfalls. Open all year; admission charged Mar-Sept.
Heritage Trail

phone: +1 812-273-6740
The Heritage Trail is a paved pathway for biking, hiking and rollerblading. The trail connects downtown Madison with the hilltop and overlooks the Ohio River. Open dawn to dusk 2002.
Madison City Park System

address: 101 West Main St
12 city-owned parks comprise part of the 220 acres of developed park/recreation properties. City parks include 5 picnic areas, 10 shelter houses, picnic tables, 2 barbecue pits, 5 playgrounds, 4 basketball courts, 4 baseball/softball diamonds, 2 tennis courts, 2 walking paths, volleyball courts and a lake. An 18-hole golf course, a swimming pool, playgrounds, and the new Madison Sports Complex.
Riverfront Park, Vaughn Dr. A favorite spot for a relaxing stroll, boat watching or attending one of several yearly events. Public boat launching facilities. Rejuvenated brick walk with benches, gazebo, viewing sites, and dedicated bricks. Adjacent parks offer playground equipment, volleyball & basketball courts, shelter houses and picnic areas with tables.

Water activities

Crystal Beach Pool

address: 100 S. Broadway St
Built in 1938 by The Works Progress Administration. Historic bathhouse. Half-moon shaped pool slopes from ankle deep to 9 feet. 12PM-5PM daily - Memorial Day to start of school.
Madison Public Boat Ramp Foot of West St. and Vaughn Dr. Located on the riverfront at the foot of West Street. Open year round. No charge.

Buy

Eat

Bistro One

address: 122 E Main St
Featuring around the world cuisine.
Café Camille

address: 119 E. Main St
Serving breakfast and lunch in a unique and comfortable atmosphere.
ChickiePoos

address: 209 W Mail St
Eclectic restaurant with an ever changing menu of 5 or so items per night. No liquor license, but they make their own sodas. Open for lunch and dinner Thursday through Saturday.
Frisch's Big Boy Restaurant

address: 460 E Clifty Dr
Gallery 115 Cafe

address: 115 East Main Street
Enjoy delicious sandwiches, soup of the day and desserts. During the summer month be sure to have a float made with your choice of vintage era drinks.
Hinkles Sandwich Shop

phone: +1 812-265-3919

address: 204 W. Main St
Famous hamburgers served with pickles and onions, homefries, milkshakes. Try the biscuits and gravy Wed- Sat night after 9PM!
Historic Broadway Hotel & Restaurant

address: 313 Broadway St
Indiana’s oldest hotel & tavern. Opened in 1834 and still serving hearty meals & refreshing cocktails.
Joeyg's Restaurant and Nightclub

address: 218 E. Main St
Live music, cuisine, culture, eclectic atmosphere and late night food.
Key West Shrimp House

address: 117 Ferry St
Seafood, steak and chicken with river view tables. State hospitality award winner.
Roger’s Diner and Soda Fountain

address: 101 E. Main St
Old-fashioned diner & soda fountain. Famous potato salad, Jelly-Bellys, chocolates. Coming September 2007, walls will be covered in photos of the many places to visit and tour in Madison and surrounding areas.
The Attic Coffee Mill /Cafe

address: 631 W Main St
Madison’s favorite coffee, soups, salads, sandwiches & desserts to-die-for.
The Downtowner

address: 104 E. Main St
Great soups, sandwiches, salads & desserts. Made fresh daily. Madison’s most recommended eatery. The best Chicken Salad Sandwich!
The Red Pepper Deli and Café

phone: +1 812-265-DELI

address: 902 W. Main St
Sandwiches, salads, homemade soups, desserts. Over 80 sandwiches to choose from.
Tugboats Eatery

phone: +1 812-273-9700
Daily 11AM. Riverfront dining. Full lunch, dinner, bar menu.
The Falls Restaurant at Clifty Inn

phone: +1 812-265-4135

address: IN 56 West
Open Daily 7AM-2PM, 5PM-8PM. Hours may vary by season. Relax and enjoy home cooking overlooking the scenic Ohio River.

Drink

Sleep

Bed & Breakfasts

Azalea Manor Bed and Breakfast

address: 510 West Main St
In heart of historic district in walking distance of unique shops, antique stores, museums, public historic homes/sites, coffee and handcrafted candy shops, the Ohio River, visitor center, public library, restaurants and churches.
Carriage House

address: 308 West Second St
Open May 1 to October 31. A stay here offers the ultimate in stress relief. AAA Approved.
Iron Gate Inn

address: 708 E. Main St
Downtown historic home, side galleries overlook lovely gardens, candlelight breakfast.
Madison Vineyards Bed & Breakfast

phone: +1 812-273-6500

address: 1456 E 400 N
Large rooms, private baths, vineyard views, full breakfast, near downtown.
Rose Cottage

phone: +1 812-839-3781
Take a scenic drive along Highway 62 & spend a night at romantic Rose Cottage in Canaan. Your hosts, Norma and Fred Tuttle, provide a full breakfast or some of Norma's famous “made from scratch” muffins and sweet breads.
Schussler House

phone: +1 812-273-2068

address: 514 Jefferson St
Historic charm with today's amenities, scrumptious breakfast, convenient location.
Whitehall

address: 1229 W. Main St
Exclusive historic accommodations in suite, river views, exquisite breakfast, canopy beds.
Windy Hill

phone: +1 812-265-5284

address: 340 Thomas Hill Rd
Cozy getaway, beautiful river view, country breakfast, great group retreat.

Campgrounds

City of Madison Campgrounds, Riverfront on Vaughn Drive, +1 812-265-8308 or +1 812-265-8333. 32 Sites. Some have trees. Rates. Daily $15, Weekly $90. Hours April 1st-October 31st. Will take reservations after April 1st. Facilities: A shower house, electric and water hook-up, dump station, paved spaces with picnic table. Restrictions: Campers only, no tents. Check Out: 2PM M-Sa, 5PM Su.
Clifty Falls State Park

phone: +1 812-265-1331
Open year around. Olympic outdoor pool with slide available summer months. Rates: Camping; Daily with electric $22, Primitive $10. Winter: Daily (with electric) $8, Primitive $4. (Winter season, water faucets, showers and toilets are turned off until approximately April 5th.) Reservation first-come first-serve until May 1. 166 sites all with gravel spaces, picnic table, and fire ring. 106 have electric hook-ups. Facilities: dump station, electric hook-ups, water near by (not at site.) Shower houses & camp store available summer months. Check out 2PM, 5PM Sunday.

Cottages & guesthouses

Cabin Falls

address: 1708 Dugan Hollow Rd
Authentic log cabin on 50 acres, sleeps 6, 2 miles from Madison, large Jacuzzi.
Dove Cottage

address: 107 Walnut St
Madison’s premiere getaway. Just steps from the Ohio River.
Madison Fudge Factory and Guest Suites

phone: +1 812-273-5378

address: 630 W. Main St
Private baths, cable, unique furnishings. Willie Wonka would love to stay here!
Ogden’s Guest House

phone: +1 812-265-5313, +1 812-599-1296

address: 315 St. Michael’s Ave
Bigger than most – 3 bedrooms. Walk to shops, restaurants, river.
Rouse's Roost

address: 1304 West Second St
Cozy cottage minutes away from shops, restaurants, & historic area.
Suites & Cottages

phone: +1 812-265-6171, +1 812-265-6507

address: 207 W Main St
Beautifully furnished historic properties. Charm. Privacy. Heart of the historic district.
The Guest House

phone: +1 812-701-4439 or +1 812-265-4439

address: 904 W. Second St
Comfortably furnished cottages; nightly, weekly, extended stays; children welcome.
Village Peddler

phone: +1 812-273-6053 or +1 812-866-4151

address: 224 E. Main St
Two suites right on Main Street.

Hotels & motels

Best Western Madison

phone: +1 812-273-5151

address: 700 Clifty Dr
Free hot breakfast, high speed internet, fitness/pool facility, on site restaurant & lounge.
Clifty Inn & The Falls Restaurant

address: Route 56
Indoor pool, tennis courts, restaurant, whirlpool suites. Open year round.
Country Hearth Inn

phone: +1 812-273-0757

address: 308 Demaree Dr
Best lodging value with incredible breakfast, hot tub suites, cable TV with HBO, fresh cookies daily.
Hillside Inn

address: 831 E. Main St
Private balconies. River views. Fireplace & whirlpools. Free breakfast.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites

address: 300 Franks Dr
Complimentary breakfast, indoor pool, meeting space, whirlpool suites. Packages available.
Super 8 Motel

phone: +1 812-273-4443

address: 3767 Clifty Drive
Indoor heated pool, hot tub, free breakfast.