Madison Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Photo by D.D.Oakley
Visit this quaint river town and take in the beautiful scenery, grand historic buildings and peaceful, old-worldly way of life. 

Located on the banks of the Ohio River, Madison has a proud history as one of America’s finest riverboat towns. Visit this wonderful place to slow down and enjoy the simpler things in life.

Stroll through town and admire the fine historical houses and buildings. Madison is Indiana’s largest historic district, with more than 2,000 recognised historical structures. The Lanier Mansion State Historic Site and the Schroeder Saddletree Factory Museum are just two of the many attractions that give you a glimpse into the town’s past. Don’t miss the spectacular Broadway Fountain, which has stood in the town centre since 1886. Buy local produce at the farmers market and enjoy a picnic at Riverfront Park where children will enjoy the playground equipment. Or, stop for a coffee and lunch in a café near the town square.  

The town of Madison is small. You can easily walk between the major sites in a day. However, having your own transportation is recommended, so you can explore the superb surrounding countryside. Several driving routes, including the Chief White Eye Trail, are signposted and take you through a landscape of limestone bluffs and open countryside. If you prefer to walk or cycle, try the Heritage Trail. These trails are particularly spectacular in spring and fall.

Find plenty to enjoy in Madison’s natural setting, with superb bird watching and hiking in the nearby parks. Clifty Falls State Park has a number of hiking trails as well as sites for camping and an Olympic-sized pool, while Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge is a favourite with birdwatchers.

Summers are long and hot so be sure to spend time by the water if you visit then. The annual Madison Regatta, held in early July, provides a great opportunity to enjoy the river. Join locals watching hydroplanes racing and rubber ducks floating along the Ohio River. As the locals say, “You gotta regatta” in Madison, Indiana.

Best Way Inn Madison
Best Way Inn Madison
2.5 out of 5
700 Clifty Drive, Madison, IN
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is ₹6,596 per night from 19 May to 20 May
₹6,596
per night
19 May - 20 May
Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a fitness centre.
6.6/10 (406 reviews)
"Bathtub rain was very slow to empty. I reported it, ope it's been fixed."

Reviewed on 21 Apr 2024

Best Way Inn Madison
Hillside Inn
Hillside Inn
2.5 out of 5
831 E Main St, Madison, IN
The price is ₹10,771 per night from 21 May to 22 May
₹10,771
per night
21 May - 22 May
Stay at this hotel in Madison. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (865 reviews)
"The shower/ tub didn't drain well. The bathroom needed some touch ups. The concrete beyond the fenced balcony's paint was peeling and looked unsightly.The drive entrance was a little intimidating.It was very steep and had a sharp turn. I wasn't sure two cars could maneuver through the turn. The bed ..."

Reviewed on 27 Apr 2024

Hillside Inn
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Madison, an IHG Hotel
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Madison, an IHG Hotel
2.5 out of 5
300 Franks Dr, Madison, IN
Fully refundable
The price is ₹8,447 per night from 19 May to 20 May
₹8,447
per night
19 May - 20 May
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Madison. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in their ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (417 reviews)
"The staff was wonderful!"

Reviewed on 11 Apr 2024

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Madison, an IHG Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Pickle Factory Hotel
Pickle Factory Hotel
2.5 out of 5
13 Tobacco Aly, Covington, KY
Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and Netflix.
9.8/10 Exceptional! (13 reviews)
"Amazing place! So great, I even added an extra night on to my stay so I could chill out in the Odd Fellows Room. Restaurants nearby, 20 min walk to the Reds ballpark, and a dedicated parking spot made this a wonderfully unique place to stay."

Reviewed on 26 Apr 2024

Pickle Factory Hotel
Baldwin Flats
Baldwin Flats
4 out of 5
220 E 4th St, Covington, KY
Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a garden.
9.8/10 Exceptional! (34 reviews)
"So close to a lot of sites we were visiting, we just walked"

Reviewed on 8 May 2024

Baldwin Flats
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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