Filling in as the seat of Jefferson County, Madison, Indiana, brings a lot to the table for tourists who stop by for a vacation.
Located along the beautiful Ohio River, breathtaking nature surrounds this charming Indiana destination.
The people of Madison seem to refuse to let go of their past and with good reason.
Due to its long history, this city has many stories to share with the people who can visit it.
In addition to many well-preserved historical monuments, you can find many fun opportunities and exciting destinations in this city.
We’ve put together for you top things to do in Madison (IN) while visiting.
Fun Things to Do in Madison (IN)
1. Don’t Miss a Thing at the Madison Railroad Station Museum
Another historic landmark popular with tourists is the Madison Railroad Station Museum.
Located on Madison’s History Center Campus, spend time with your traveling friends to learn more about the city’s exciting history.
Here you will find most of the original equipment used in the station.
It also features displays that show what it looked like when the railroad was built.
At Madison Railroad Station Museum, you can also learn about the importance of the railway system to the history and growth of the city.
In addition to this museum, the city’s historic center campus also houses a local history museum where you can learn more about Madison’s past.
Bring your family and friends here to get to know Madison a little better.
2. Visit Crystal Beach Pool
The whole town has a significance in its roots that even the local swimming pool is considered historic.
But that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun while you’re here.
Crystal Beach Pool, built in 1938, remains open to the public and provides hours of fun in the water.
Many know that the public pool has a unique semi-circular design with a pool slope that gradually transitions from ankle-deep water to eight feet.
It also features a water slide and can hold over 20,000 gallons of water at a time.
In addition to the pool, Crystal Beach Pool also has a spa house built from a rough stone that has retained its original historic design.
Head here with your family and make a splash in the waters of this interesting public swimming pool.
3. Check Out Empire Quarry
Resting in Madison, this amazing limestone quarry gave lots of stone to the development of the remarkable Empire State Building in New York City.
The Imperial Quarry is a sight worth seeing.
With its gorgeous aquamarine hue and rugged limestone walls, it’s one of the most Instagrammable spots in Indiana.
Capture the ethereal beauty of an abandoned quarry.
You can also find a shady spot, relax and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.
Things to Do in Madison (IN) at Night
1. Grab Some Local Beers at Mad Paddle Brewstillery
A city steeped in history, Madison also boasts a background in brewing.
Many know the city as one of the main places west of the Alleghenies to mix great brew, particularly somewhere in the range of 1823 and 1918.
To respect the practice of refining specialty lagers, two siblings – the Wade siblings – established Mad Paddle Brewery in 2018.
Here you can taste delicious craft beers and spirits accompanied by sumptuous dishes.
It also offers live music entertainment that is not to be missed in the area.
It is important you note that this area may not be reasonable for little kids, so the facility doesn’t suggest taking them here.
2. Spend Some Time at Eskenazi Museum of Art
Open starting around 1941; this Bloomington exhibition hall houses a fascinating collection of about 40,000 things.
In the state of mind for a little craftsmanship treatment yet not certain where to go in Indiana?
Why not visit this excellent Bloomington exhibition hall this end of the week?
With its interpretive displays and instructive introductions, this exhibition hall motivates and teaches guests and craftsmanship admirers, everything being equal.
Visit the gallery and appreciate what was crafted by history’s most noteworthy craftsmen, like Claude Monet and Pablo Picasso.
You can also appreciate unique pieces in its permanent collection, such as ancient masks from Africa and gold jewelry.
3. Check Out Market Street Catacombs
Built in 1886, this mysterious underground network of passageways hides beneath downtown Indianapolis.
For anyone looking to see unique things to see in Madison, the Market Street Catacombs are the perfect place to visit.
This elaborate 22,000-square-foot underground system has over 130 columns that create a labyrinth-like atmosphere and environment.
Even if there are no dead bodies or paranormal sightings, visitors will still adore the views of these ruins.
You can investigate this supernatural underground labyrinth by joining a visit presented by Indiana Landmarks.
Their directed visits are accessible each third and first Saturday of the month.
Things to Do in Madison (IN) For Couples
1. Take a Trip to Lanier Mansion Historic Site
Numerous nineteenth-century chateaus actually stand in the city, a large number of which you can, in any case, visit today.
One more structure planned by acclaimed architect Francis Costigan, this mansion is thought of by a lot of people to be the “crown gem” among the homes of Madison’s historically significant area.
With Greek Revival engineering and finished in 1844, a broker and railroad designer named F.D. Lanier claimed this masterful home.
The referenced structure actually shows a few bits of unique furnishings and a brilliant three-story winding flight of stairs.
The hotel’s formal garden additionally includes canvases and scene styles from the late nineteenth hundred years.
To get a feeling of how individuals in Madison resided during the 1800s while valuing the appeal of Greek Revival design, go to this historic home.
Assuming you are keen on additional insights regarding this heavenly manor, you can book guided tours.
2. Admire the Fascinating Architecture of the Sullivan House
The Sullivan House, one of the oldest residences in the city, was the home of Judge Jeremiah Sullivan, who served as a state supreme court judge in the early 1800s.
Now here’s a fun fact about Sullivan: People credit him with the city of Indianapolis!
This historic home has a design created with Federal style architecture in mind.
In Madison, you can find many historical things to learn about.
Large numbers of the castle’s museums act as home to memorabilia that shares the accounts of these astonishing individuals who are important to Madison’s experiences.
3. Take a Walk Around Brown County State Park
Nicknamed the “Little Smokies,” this 15,776-acre park overflows with outdoor fun.
Brown County State Park is a playground in Indiana.
From hiking to saddle trails, Indiana’s largest state park has plenty of activities for all tastes, interests, and budgets.
In fact, this state park also has romantic experiences for couples.
For an adrenaline rush, hit the biking or hiking trails that wind through Indiana’s rolling hills.
You can likewise go horseback riding or fishing in this state park.
For something seriously unwinding, camp and reconnect with nature or remain in a cozy and comfy lodge.
Things to Do in Madison (IN) For Kids
1. Take Them to Cocoa Safari Chocolates
While you may have numerous choices to look over with regards to spots to eat in Madison, look at Cocoa Safari Chocolates.
Here you’ll find decadent, handcrafted chocolate treats that will tantalize your taste buds just by looking at them.
The people at Cocoa Safari Chocolate consider chocolate making to be an art and a state of mind, and this is well reflected in the products they sell.
Their goal is to make the best-tasting chocolate, and you can experience what they’ve been working on when you visit Madison.
So visit them, try some of the best artisanal chocolate treats and buy them to take home with you. Every single bite is worth the trip.
2. Let Them Have a Feel Studebaker National Museum
Situated in South Bend, this exhibition hall features the manifestations of the top vehicle maker of days of old.
This 55,000-square-foot exhibition hall consolidates auto headways, official legend, and neighborhood history.
Inside the exhibition hall, vehicle fans can see around 120 vehicles.
In the meantime, history buffs will experience vehicles that assume a fundamental part of American history.
See the biggest assortment of American official carriages at this exhibition hall.
For those going with youngsters, visit the Super Service Center, an intelligent showcase focused on the little ones.
3. Don’t Miss a Visit to Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo
Since opening in 1965, this 40-acre zoo has been one of Indiana’s must-sees.
The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is home to animals from around the world.
In the Australian Adventure zoo zone, you will see dingoes, kangaroos, and a reef with countless colorful fish.
Meanwhile, the African Journey exhibit has lots of ostriches, wildebeests, and zebras.
Explore the zoo and interact with lots of charming animals.
Plus, join one of the zoo’s year-round educational programs and special events.
Indoor Activities to Do in Madison (IN) For Adults
1. Check Out Little Golden Fox
Get ready to unleash your inner artist when you visit Madison.
With a rich history, art, and cultural scene, consider creating and sharing your creations with the help of the Golden Fox.
Considered the creative hub of the city, this studio has all the tools you could need to create your masterpiece.
In addition, you can sign up for workshops, courses, or events to either learn new creative skills or strengthen your natural talents even more.
This studio also doubles as a place for local businesswomen to showcase their products, so you’re welcome to check them out.
If you want a place to get your creative juices flowing on your trip to Madison, consider visiting this place.
2. Go Back in Time at Francis Costigan House
Designed by acclaimed architect Francis Costigan, this historic home was built in the 1850s.
It was considered by many to be one of the best showcases of 19th-century design because of its creative use of limited spaces.
This historic two-story Greek Revival design home sits on a lot that is only 22 feet wide.
It features an interior with a luxurious salon, two fireplaces, curved walls, and intricate, hand-crafted wooden decor.
Being here will give you a glimpse of what a beautiful dwelling looked like in the 19th century.
3. Pick Up Saddletree-Making Skill at the Shroeder Saddletree Factory Museum
Have you ever considered what the process of making saddles is like?
The saddle tree serves as an essential part of the saddle as it frames the entire structure.
In Madison, the historical, well-known company has been manufacturing this key component since 1878.
Founded by a German immigrant, the Schroeder Saddletree Factory has stood along the Ohio River since the 1800s.
If you visit the museum, you will find that it still houses the woodworking shop, sawmill, and assembly room, all perfectly preserved and on display for people to learn more about the art of saddlery making.
The museum also provides demonstrations that show visitors how workers would have used antique equipment and how they would have made saddle frames.
While you can explore the museum on your own, you can also opt for a guided tour that will explain the significance of each exhibit.
Romantic Things to Do in Madison (IN)
1. Visit Clifty Falls State Park
It is amazing how nature blesses the city of Madison, as you’ll find Clifty Falls State Park right above the Ohio River.
Come here with your family to discover the amazing natural wonders surrounding the city.
When you visit here, you can discover many beautiful waterfalls.
The flow of these falls can vary, depending on the time of year, from rapid gushing plunges to slow, gentle trickles.
Here you can learn to appreciate nature while having fun. An information center is accessible where you can learn about nature conservation.
It also offers facilities for outdoor sports and outdoor hiking trails.
In addition to outdoor activities, you and your companions can enjoy and eat at the park’s picnic spots.
If you want to stay for a few days, you can pitch a tent on one of its electric or non-electric campsites.
2. Try Some Local Handmade Wine at the Lanthier Winery
Assuming that you’re in the mood for a glass of wine and need to find the particular flavor profile Madison brings to the table, get some time off and visit Lanthier Winery.
Here, you and your companions can sample the wines in the destination’s cellar tasting room.
They have competent staff who can share information about the wine you are drinking.
In addition to wine, you can also visit the winery’s gallery. They house a collection of art that can only be described as amazing.
It also has a garden that can become the perfect setting for a pleasant afternoon stroll.
In addition to wine tastings, plan your trip to see what events will be held at this location.
At Lanthier Winery, you can even sign up for workshops and courses when you come here. You will find that you have many things to do to spend a day at Lanthier Winery.
3. Don’t Miss the Beauty of the Stream Cliff Farms
Try taking a trip to Stram Cliff Farms, one of the oldest herb farms in the area.
This charming destination has been owned and operated by the same family for six generations.
In addition to beautiful gardens, you will find many historic buildings that have stood the test of time.
You can also find wineries here and taste some of their handcrafted wines.
Feeling hungry? Head to their in-house restaurant for delicious meals.
Furthermore, assuming you like to gain some new useful knowledge, they offer classes in cultivating, cooking, workmanship and different artworks.
You can likewise get a portion of the occasions they have on the homestead, including the Barn Market, held three times each year.
Take your family here and invest quality energy doing fun exercises at this beguiling ranch.
Free Things to Do in Madison (IN)
1. Follow Up a Show Put Together by the Madison Music Movement
You’ll also find great music in Madison.
While visiting the city, check out the fun and incredible music shows that Madison has to offer.
Hosted by the Madison Music Movement, you can encounter many live music scenes at various locations around the city.
These music shows are typically held at well-known scenes around the city, so you can appreciate them with great food and extraordinary organization in a breathtaking setting.
Also, these shows are completely not held at night.
Notwithstanding open noon music exhibitions held in nearby stops, you can likewise get exhibitions coordinated by the Madison Music Movement at neighborhood areas of interest like Madd Paddle Brewstillery, and that’s just the beginning.
2. Enjoy the Natural Beauty of Prophetstown State Park
Prophetstown – Indiana’s newest state park – opened in 2004.
Steeped in cultural and natural history, Prophetstown is an excellent addition to Indiana’s state park system.
And in this park, you’ll find a 125-acre farm that offers hands-on experiences like feeding livestock and gardening.
Prophetstown offers a variety of fantastic Indiana activities.
In the event that you’re going with the family, look at the Aquatic Center, which flaunts a 100-foot slide, sluggish waterway, and pools.
There are additionally climbing trails reasonable for all levels at the conjunction of the Tippecanoe and Wabash streams.
3. Visit Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park
Run by an Amish family, this peaceful zoo is a hidden gem in Shipshewana.
Dutch Creek Farm is not your regular zoo.
In addition to housing the charming creatures, the zoo also offers feeding, petting, and wagon rides.
In addition, it has a herd of exotic animals such as ostriches, camels, and zebras.
Pet, feed, and sit next to rabbits, baby chicks, and miniature horses and just relax.
Of course, at Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park, you can enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride and explore the park.
Cheap Things to Do in Madison (IN)
1. Go Shopping at Madison Made by Euclid and Woodland
Do you like shopping for things that remind you of your trip to a specific place?
Stop by Madison Made by Euclid and Woodland on your way to this beautiful city.
Here you will find 100% locally made products.
You can pick up some souvenirs from shirts to the home decor while supporting local artisans and entrepreneurs in the region.
So before you leave Madison, be sure to check out some fantastic Madison Made products.
2. Hang Out at White River State Park
Created in 1979, this 250-acre sanctuary is America’s only cultural urban state park.
White River State Park offers some of the most incredibly fun things to do in Indiana.
With an exciting mix of cultural attractions and greenery, this state park will entertain visitors of all stripes and ages.
Stroll through the park and see the city’s most famous landmarks, such as the White River, Military Park, and the Indianapolis Zoo.
If you want something more active, go hiking, kayaking, or boating.
3. Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari
Located in Santa Claus, this family-friendly theme park is full of exciting rides and attractions.
If you are looking for great places to visit in Indiana with kids, look no further than Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari.
With plenty of world-class rides on offer, this park will take your breath away in more ways than one.
And did we mention that Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari also have a water park?
Craving some heart-pumping excitement?
You might want to check out the park’s breathtaking rides, such as Thunderbird, Voyage, Raven, and Legend.
Cool Places to Visit in Madison (IN)
1. Eleutherian College
You will have no shortage of historical places to visit in Madison.
One of those you can visit is Eleutherian College.
When you come here, you can learn more about the people who shaped the history of this city.
Although the Neil’s Creek Anti-Slavery Society founded the Eleutherian College as early as 1848, it was only in the 1850s
the building itself was built.
Today you can find this landmark recounting the narrative of the courageous individuals who established it.
If you want to add this to your Madison itinerary, keep in mind that the school is by appointment only.
2. Bluespring Caverns
With 21 miles of passage, this unique monument is the longest underground river in the country.
Are you up for some crazy exciting things in Indiana?
Why not head to Bluespring Caverns and explore its otherworldly underground wonders?
Not only does it contain large limestone caves, but it is also an ideal habitat for albino and blind games.
Take a 1-hour boat ride on the underground river and see the unusual creatures in the caves.
Likewise, admire the impressive length and stone majesty of this underground attraction.
3. Lucas Oil Stadium
Located right in the heart of Indianapolis, this multi-purpose stadium opened to the public in 2008.
Home of the Indianapolis Colts, this stadium is a must-see attraction for sports fans.
And guess what?
Even if you’re not an NFL fan, this stadium will captivate you with its stellar views of the Indianapolis skyline.
Can’t watch the game live?
And while you’re there, take time to appreciate the views and their exceptional architecture.
Conclusion
Madison’s way of life as a city remains established in its long history, and its local area perceives this.
They strive to safeguard their astonishing legacy, and it’s certainly worth seeing.
For history buffs or those hoping to fulfill their interest, spend your next excursion here as there are numerous things to do in Madison (IN)
