Attractions

Attractions

Beautiful Scenery and Unique Attractions

Madison is located along the Ohio River Scenic Byway between Louisville, KY & Cincinnati, OH.  The rolling hills, limestone bluffs and small towns in southern Indiana offer a great opportunity to explore. Follow the trail of John Hunt Morgan, Chief White Eye or Michigan Road (the first road commissioned by the state in 1826).  Explore the hills and valleys of southern Indiana.

Check out our beautiful architecture and iconic Broadway Fountain during a walking tour around town.

Hanover College just a couple of miles from downtown Madison has a lovely campus with a Science Center open to the public. Find your way to “The Point” for one of the best views of the Ohio River Valley – don’t forget your camera.

Broadway Fountain

Historical, Artistic Fountain in Downtown Madison

The Broadway Fountain, a Madison treasure, is a bronze copy of the original nineteenth-century iron fountain that was part of the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition of 1876. The Independent Order of Odd Fellows purchased the fountain and presented it to the city of Madison in 1886. Although other copies of the fountain can be found in Poughkeepsie, NY; Cusco, Peru; and Forsyth Park in Savannah, Georgia, the Broadway Fountain is the least altered design from the illustration in the James Kirtland Company Catalog. In honor of the nation’s bicentennial celebration, the citizens of Madison raised funds to restore the esplanade and recast the fountain. The fountain was rededicated in 1980.

 

Crystal Beach Aquatic Park

Crystal Beach Swimming Pool is a national landmark that was constructed in 1938 during the Great Depression by the Works Progress Administration. The City of Madison is proud to preserve the pool for future generations.

The newly constructed Crystal Beach Aquatic Park preserved the “seashore” design while adding features that will serve individuals of all abilities: an activity tower for children, lap lanes, a lazy river, two slides, a diving board, a wet deck, chairs, and umbrellas. Season closes Labor Day 9/2/24. 

Learn about pricing, lessons and more here.

Check City of Madison website or Facebook for information on Water Aerobics.

Downtown Madison

As the heart of our community’s history, thriving entertainment arts & culture scene, and unique shopping & dining experiences, Downtown Madison is a must-see Rivertown destination. Conveniently located between the metro areas of Cincinnati, Indianapolis, and Louisville, there’s a lot going on in this jewel of a small town nestled in the Ohio River Valley. There is something here for everyone: lovers of art, architecture, music and cuisine rejoice! All the finer things in life can be enjoyed here surrounded by the nation’s largest contiguous landmark district.

Stay in the know by checking out our Events Calendar so you can see for yourself what makes Madison so special!

Hanover College

Indiana’s First Private College

Founded in 1827, this is the oldest private four-year college in Indiana.  With over 630-acres, there is so much to explore in and out of the classroom! Hanover College‘s campus overlooks the Ohio River valley and offers breathtaking views while taking a scenic drive or walk along their plentiful walking and hiking paths.

The College Tour

Hanover College is featured in season 6 of The College Tour now available on Amazon Prime Video! Hear 10 students and a well-known alumni – Woody Harrelson talk about their Hanover experiences!

> Watch Now

Historic Eleutherian College

Eleutherian College is a National Historic Landmark founded in 1848 by the Neil’s Creek Anti-Slavery Society. Today’s mission it to tell the stories of these courageous men & women. Inspired by their desire to serve God, they established the Eleutherian College based upon their values of education and freedom, regardless of race or gender.  The three-story tall stone building, constructed between 1853 and 1856, is magnificent.

Tours  and programs available by advance appointment only.
Admission: $5.00 suggested donation

Look for several FREE tour events typically 4th Saturday of summer months.

Watch the ‘History in Your Own Backyard‘ segment.

Riverfront

Madison sits along the banks of the mighty Ohio River.

Whether you’re looking for a nice relaxing stroll along Madison’s riverfront or a heart-racing adventure on the water with Rockin’ Thunder River Tours, there is no end to the fun and memories to be made here. Just a few blocks away from Madison’s Main Street, the riverfront is very accessible and walkable. Our two-mile long walkway along the river is ideal for a morning trek with your furry friend or an evening walk lit by street lamps with your partner. Explore the Madison-Milton Bridge walkway for stellar views and extra mileage!

Scenic Routes

Take the scenic route! The Ohio River Byway hugs the river’s edge as it runs right through Madison and Jefferson County. The Historic Michigan Road Byway marks the first road to be commissioned by the Indiana State Legislature in 1826.  This road connects Madison on the Ohio River to Michigan City on Lake Michigan via Indianapolis.

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The Science Center

Perusing Hanover College's campus, it's impossible to not stop by their stately Science Center. Take a self guided tour and enjoy displays that include colorful minerals, rare & unusual fossils, art & cultural exhibits, butterfly collection and much more. Take a ride on the science side!

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