Madison

Come this weekend!

A brand new motor trail experience has just been launched and you are invited to the ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9:30 a.m. Saturday at Lamplighter’s Park on the riverfront. Excitement is Revving and new adventures beginning as Visit Madison, Inc. officially launches REVerie Roads! It includes the flagship trail, the Serpent of 62 which encompasses 1,000 curves in 100 miles!

“We are thrilled to introduce this regional motor experience, which promises excitement, exploration, and discovery for motor enthusiasts of all kinds. REVerie Roads offers an immersive journey through the scenic landscapes and historic landmarks of the Ohio River Valley and beyond,” said Andrew Forrester, Executive Tourism Director of Visit Madison.

Joining the Serpent of 62 are four other curated trails, each offering its own unique blend of scenic beauty, historical significance, and thrilling challenges. There is the Markland: Made in America trail, Ride to Stream Cliff trail, Jacob’s Ladder trail, and the Ark Loop: Curviest Ride In All Creation trail.

REVerie Roads embodies the spirit of exploration, adventure, and freedom that comes with hitting the open road. It’s about escaping the ordinary and embracing the thrill of discovery, The best part? This adventure is available year-round. For more information, visit https://visitmadison.org/directory/reverieroads/

Madison in Bloom

The 30^th Biennial Spring Garden Tour, displaying the gardens of private homes, is this weekend and next, June 8-9, 15-16. Each participating location following the theme of “Madison in Bloom” is described with a map on the actual ticket. The ticket price of $30 is good for both weekends. They are available at the History Center/Jefferson County Historical Society. Children 12 and under are admitted free. Hours are 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday.

Main Street Award

A visit to Madison, Indiana must include a stroll down Main Street. The 2024 Great American Main Street Award (GAMSA), which recognizes communities for excellence in comprehensive preservation-based commercial district revitalization, was just recently awarded to Madison. Chosen by a national jury of industry professionals and local leaders in the fields of economic development and historic preservation, Madison Main Street Program was recognized for fostering a welcoming culture. Other determining factors were celebrating historic preservation and championing community collaboration.

“The success of the Madison Main Street Program is a strong testament to the classic Main Street model and sustainable change over time,” said Erin Barnes, President and CEO at Main Street America. “Their fearless dedication to nurturing historic preservation and tenacious drive to find creative solutions is unlocking the magic of Madison.”  Madison is the first Indiana Main Street community to earn the Great American Main Street Award in the last 25 years.

Art on Main Street

Madison is one of 12 Indiana Cultural Districts and boasts so many assets; from the architecture, public art, galleries, murals and more. Art is a huge piece of Madison’s culture and an integral part of the Madison experience. We have several galleries filled with local & regional art representing diverse artistic styles. Many of our local stores, restaurants and wineries feature changing exhibits throughout the year as well. Make sure to take a selfie in front of the Kindness Mural on Mulberry Street.

Artists with original work having a river-life theme will be on display at the Madison Art Club throughout the month of June. It is open to the public from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. There is a different theme for art displays each month.

Another art-related activity on Main Street is a concrete stepping stone mosaid workshop being held June 8 from noon to 5 p.m. at the Little Gold Fox.  Rhonda will teach you how to cut, apply, and create your own gorgeous mosaic. This is a great class for the beginner or experienced. Safety glasses are strongly recommended. Since this is a 5-hour class, you’re welcome to bring a snack or during break visit one of our local restaurants.

Music

Madison is hailed as “Indiana’s Music City” because the music scene is hopping ALL THE TIME! Live music is grooving throughout the week. The House of Jane Songwriter Sessions are a series of intimate listening room shows held in the House of Jane Barbershop on Man Street. On select nights throughout the summer, enjoy local and regional bands rocking out at Bicentennial Park! The concerts are free. See the event calendar for specific dates.

If you love music, history, art, festivals, outdoors or just want to take a relaxing walk on the riverfront this is the place to go on your next extended weekend getaway. Take a trip to Madison this summer and experience all we have to offer and more! Visit https://visitmadison.org/