Madison, IN

Travel Guide

Photo by D.D.Oakley
Photo by Kenneth Allen
Photo by Brandon McCauley

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 recognized 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 center 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 favorite 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.

Hillside Inn

Hillside Inn

2.5 out of 5
831 E Main St, Madison, IN
$89 nightly
The price is $102 total per night from Aug 27 to Aug 28
$102 total
Aug 27 - Aug 28
Total includes taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Madison. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,001 reviews)
Magnificent
"The breakfast was really not that bad for a continental breakfast. I thought the potatoes amd sausage were very yummy. The bed was very comfortable. I slept like a sack of potatoes. Also, the room was nice and quiet and private."

Reviewed on Aug 3, 2025

Hillside Inn
Riverboat Inn and Suites

Riverboat Inn and Suites

3 out of 5
906 E 1st St, Madison, IN
$121 nightly
The price is $140 total per night from Sep 3 to Sep 4
$140 total
Sep 3 - Sep 4
Total includes taxes and fees
Stay at this 3-star inn in Madison. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Thomas Family Winery and Dr. William Hutching's Office ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (63 reviews)
"Upgraded/scenery"

Reviewed on Aug 10, 2025

Riverboat Inn and Suites
Radisson Hotel Cincinnati Riverfront

Radisson Hotel Cincinnati Riverfront

3.5 out of 5
668 W 5th St, Covington, KY
$118 nightly
The price is $133 total per night from Aug 27 to Aug 28
$133 total
Aug 27 - Aug 28
Total includes taxes and fees
Stay at this 3.5-star business-friendly hotel in Covington. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 restaurants, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
7/10 Good! (2,193 reviews)
Weekenders
"Hotel is a little outdated and beside the loud ac unit and the sub-par cleanness. I guess it was ok. Rooftop restaurant was the highlight of our trip."

Reviewed on Aug 18, 2025

Radisson Hotel Cincinnati Riverfront
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.
1800’s restored log cabin on 26 private rolling wooded acres with sunset views

1800’s restored log cabin on 26 private rolling wooded acres with sunset views

Madison
Stay at this cabin in Madison. Enjoy a garden, patios, and cable/satellite TV service.
9.8/10 Exceptional! (194 reviews)
"This place checks all of our boxes for the things we look for in a rental cabin."

Reviewed on Jul 13, 2025

1800’s restored log cabin on 26 private rolling wooded acres with sunset views
Glenda’s Overlook..everything you need to make visiting Madison a great getaway!

Glenda’s Overlook..everything you need to make visiting Madison a great getaway!

Madison
Stay at this vacation home in Madison. Enjoy laundry facilities, patios, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Thomas Family Winery and Schroeder Saddletree ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (37 reviews)
"We enjoyed the space. Had everything we needed. Great proximity to downtown shopping and entertainment."

Reviewed on Aug 9, 2025

Glenda’s Overlook..everything you need to make visiting Madison a great getaway!
Stoney Creek - Sit back and unwind

Stoney Creek - Sit back and unwind

Madison
Stay at this cabin in Madison. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Krueger Lake and Sunrise Falls Golf Course are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (91 reviews)
"It’s was amazing! The listing was completely accurate! Communication was a breeze!"

Reviewed on Aug 3, 2025

Stoney Creek - Sit back and unwind
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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