Tour the Lanier Mansion on the banks of the Ohio River, a beautiful example of Greek Revival architecture, featuring a spiral staircase, Corinthian and Ionic columns, and a curved door. Don’t miss the gardens, including plants and flowers popular in the late 19th century. Get the lay of the land and learn Madison’s history from the seat of a horse-drawn Broomtail Carriage. Antiquing in Madison can net you primitives, vintage kitchenware, jewelry, furniture and more.
Rockin' Jet Boat Tours
You Won’t Believe the Views
Overlooking the Ohio River makes every view a scenic one. Like at Clifty Falls State Park, where the waterfalls change from roaring plunges to delicate bridal-veil mists depending on the season. Bring your mountain bike, horse or hiking shoes for the beautiful trails at Versailles State Park. You can choose trips anywhere from 15 to 155 miles when you take the Rockin’ Jet Boat Tours on the Ohio and Kentucky rivers. Hear river stories about pirates and Indians and look for bald eagles along the way. Eagles and more than 200 other species of birds and 46 species of mammals make their home at Big Oaks Wildlife Refuge, which is providing hope for the endangered Indiana bat and river otter.
Mad Paddle Brewery
Local Beer and Wine, Please
Another great piece of Madison’s history: it was one of the first brewing cities west of the Alleghenies, brewing from 1823-1918. Mad Paddle Brewery honors this rich history, and you’ll like their setting in a historic feed mill as much as the taste of their brews. At New Madison Brewing, you can bring your own food along to their friendly setting as you order a pint, flight or growler of their specialties. For the wine lovers in your group, visit Thomas Family Winery, a cheerful pub-style tasting room in an 1850s stable and carriage house. They will give you a cellar tour and complimentary tastings of their traditional wines and old-world ciders.
Hinkle's Sandwich Shop
History is Delicious
Speaking of historic, grab something mouthwatering at Hinkle's Sandwich Shop, a nostalgic hamburger and shake joint that’s been in business at the same location since 1933. And the Historic Broadway Inn & Tavern is Indiana’s oldest bar, serving delicious steaks, seafood, pasta and barbecue. You can’t miss Bad Apple Mac’s on Main Street. No really, you can’t miss its pink and green facade! Their cuisine features fresh, seasonal dishes served with craft beers, wine and specialty drinks.
Clifty Inn
Stay Somewhere Scenic
Talk about a room with a view! Azalea Manor Bed and Breakfast Inn puts you in walking distance of all the shops and the Ohio River. Savor your abundant breakfast in the formal dining room or on the veranda. Enjoy a spectacular view of the Ohio River, rolling hills and the bridge to Kentucky when you stay at Riverboat Inn & Suites, home to an outdoor swimming pool. For a different vantage point, try Clifty Inn at Clifty Falls State Park, which sits on a bluff overlooking the Ohio River and includes an indoor swimming pool.
Map Out Your Road Trip
See the road trip stops on the map below. To customize and save your itinerary, click the list button. Remember: you should contact the destinations for updates.
