Madison

Named as one of the country’s best small towns by Southern Living, Madison is a perfect blend of small town charm, architectural beauty and history. Located on the Antebellum Trail, the Madison Historic District is one of the largest in the state. Known as the “town Sherman refused to burn,” common lore is that Sherman thought it too beautiful to burn while on his March to the Sea. The real truth is that Madison was home to a pro-Union congressman, Joshua Hill who had ties with Sherman’s brother in the House of Representatives. Sherman sparing Madison from burning was likely more of a political decision rather than one of preserving the city’s beauty.

Located in Morgan County just off I-20, Madison is only 1 hour east of Atlanta, about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Augusta and only 30-45 minutes from Watkinsville & Athens. Home choices span from historic homes in downtown to a variety of newer and more established neighborhoods surrounding downtown. If rural living is more your speed, there are farmhouses, equestrian estates and wooded, buildable lots in Morgan County. Madison is also near Lake Oconee where you can enjoy lake living and/or play golf at one of 6 championship golf courses on Lake Oconee.

Things to Do - This incredibly charming city has plenty of history you can enjoy just by walking around downtown, or you can take a trolley tour. There are nearly 100 antebellum homes in Madison many of which have been beautifully and carefully restored. You could spend hours just walking the residential streets in downtown Madison enjoying the tree-lined sidewalks and historic homes. Visit the variety of boutiques & shops and pick up some vintage items at one of their many fantastic antique stores. Or, take a self-guided walking tour of Madison’s historic cemeteries. There are several parks in and around downtown Madison where you can play pickleball, let the kiddos run around, read a book and just enjoy the scenery. Stop in at the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center to check out their exhibits and find out what local artists are up to. Head outside of the city and hop on a safari at Georgia Safari Conservation Park. There is so much to see and do in Madison - plan on spending a weekend there soon!

Food & Drink - Madison has an eclectic mix of eateries to choose from. Looking for a quaint cafe with a communal feel for breakfast or lunch? Check out The Sinclair. Interested in a delicious deli sandwich and local produce? Check out The Madison Produce Company Deli & Provisions. Craving some incredible French pastries? A visit to Patisserie on Main is a must. I don’t know about you, but I’m always up for ice-cream and The Original Scoops never disappoints. The Hart & Crown Tavern, The Dining Room, Town 220 or Ricardo’s Kouzzina are all wonderful spots for fine dining. There are many more to suit just about any palate. Learn more at VisitMadisonGa.com‍.

Explore the following websites to learn more: madisonga.com | visitmadisonga.com | galakecountry.com