Madison, Georgia
The small town of Madison, Georgia is not just one of the most beautiful places in America, it has been recognized as one of the most beautiful towns to visit in the world. In 2022, Madison was named one of the “55 Most Beautiful Small Towns in America” by Architectural Digest and listed as one of “The South’s Prettiest Small Towns” by Southern Living Magazine.
Located just an hour east of Atlanta off I-20, Madison is an easy getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city to experience a town full of culture, charm and enchantment. With an array of local dining options, more than 45 specialty shops and more than 160 antique dealers, Madison is the perfect day trip, but an even better weekend getaway. Madison offers a host of bed and breakfasts, inns, national brand lodging and even a bonafide dude ranch.
BRAG RETURN PASS
For those overnighting in Madison on June 8, 2023, during Big BRAG, cyclists may receive an activation card for a BRAG Return Pass at the Welcome Tent at Empire Mills.
The BRAG Return Pass (valid for *any consecutive three-day period of the year June 10, 2023, through June 9, 2024) will allow BRAG riders to receive one-time-only deals and discounts from participating restaurants, retailers, and attractions in Madison & Morgan County.
*Blackout dates may apply.
Terms & Conditions
To receive the Pass, riders must present the activation card at the Madison Morgan County Welcome Center. This activation card will verify Big BRAG participation. The Pass will then be provided and activated with the date of use.
The Pass must be presented at the time of purchase at participating businesses/attractions. At that time, the discount will be crossed off the Pass for single use.
*Blackout dates may apply.
Limit one Pass per person. Limit one discount per location. Pass valid for one 3-day period. Cannot be combined with any other offer. This offer expires on June 9, 2024. No cash value. Pass cannot be used online.
Deals & Discounts
Attractions
Hard Labor Creek State Park - A 15% camping discount OR a 20% off weekday reservation in the cottages except on holidays. Not to be combined with any other discount or promotion offered by Ga State Parks.
Minimum 2-night stay, valid on one reservation only during the promotion period.
*Blackout Dates: July 3-7, 2023; Oct. 9-13, 2023; Nov. 20-24, 2023; Dec. 25-29, 2023; April 6-14, 2024; and May 24-27, 2024.
Heritage Hall - ½ off admission at Heritage Hall.
Richter Cottage - Free tour by appointment only.
Steffen Thomas Museum of Art -nBuy one admission, receive a second admission free.
Restaurants & Retail
BB&G - 10% off entire purchase. No special orders.
*Blackout Dates: Black Friday, November 24, 2023; after Christmas Sale December 26, 2023 – January 1, 2024.
Community Roots Market - $2 off cold-pressed juice
Over Yonder Outpost - Half Priced Boiled peanuts and free waterproof sticker. 25% off shirts and hats.
Pure Bliss Spa & Shop - 10% off spa service.
MORE REASONS TO COME BACK TO MADISON, GEORGIA
The best weekend of cycling happens here in Morgan County each spring. Come back to visit and sightsee along our scenic roads.
Madison Fest
Madison Fest is a free, day-long garden festival with plants for sale, handmade crafts and wares, live music, food, a beer garden and more.
Firefly Festival
Annual two-night festival the last Friday and Saturday of July. Friday features a kids night with games, bounce house, face painting and more – kids ticketed, adults free. Saturday includes a date night – adults ticketed, kids 12 and under free with an adult – where the Sensational Sounds of Motown electrify the night and get dancers on their feet.
Madison Town Park
July 28 & 29, 2023
Listen to live music, sample chili, shop for fresh produce and local crafts, and enjoy a variety of food and drink from fabulous vendors. The festival begins at 10 a.m. Be sure to hop in line by noon to grab your wristband for the chili tasting!
Madison Town Park
Camp Twin Lake’s annual fundraising bike ride that helps provide life-changing camp experiences for children with serious illnesses, disabilities, or other life challenges. After crossing the finish line, riders enjoy a celebration of their accomplishments including delicious food, beer, live music and a chance to explore Camp.
Choose from six scenic routes: 5, 15, 27, 47, 62 or 100 miles.
Register through Camp Twin Lake’s events page: https://www.camptwinlakes.org/
Chamber Music Festival
Globally renowned musicians take the stage during the annual Chamber Music Festival hosted by the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center.
Dance into the night with a fantastic, live band. Ticketed event – kids 13 and under free when accompanied by an adult. Alcohol is allowed at Saturday in the Park but must be decanted into plastic cups.
Madison Town Park
April 29, 2023 in Newborn, GA
https://www.hornyheadfishfestival.com/
Rutledge Summer Concert Series
Find live, free music in Rutledge Town Park during the Rutledge Summer Concert Series – every Friday from the first week of June to the first week of September. Bring a fold-up chair or picnic blanket and have fun.
Cotton Gin Festival
Just a few minutes from Madison, the Bostwick Cotton Gin Festival is an annual favorite featuring one of the longest tractor parades in the Southeast.
Spring & Holiday Tour of Homes
Delight in the unique opportunity to see inside some of Madison’s historic and impressive homes. Stroll through gardens in the spring or see the houses fully decked for the holidays. Tickets for the Tour of Homes sold through the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center.
Madison, Georgia
Holiday Tour, Dec. 1-2, 2023
Shop, Sip & Stroll
Get ready for the holidays at Shop, Sip & Stroll. Find deals and discounts at independently-owned stores, enjoy complimentary beverages, and stroll through an historic downtown with live music at various locations.
Downtown Madison, Georgia
Select Saturdays in November.
Holiday Parade & Caroling by Candlelight
Ring in the holiday season in small town style with Madison’s delightful Holiday Parade. Following the parade, head over to Town Park for an evening of festive music and caroling. Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus and the Elves will be on hand to hear Christmas wishes. Warm up with a creamy cup of hot chocolate and enjoy toasty marshmallows roasted over an open flame.
Downtown Madison & Madison Town Park
Fit & Fun Travel
Craving a different way to explore new places? Enjoy being active? If we are speaking your language, discover unique fit and fun ways to dive into history, nature and charming small towns when you travel to Madison, Georgia.
EMPIRE MILLS
Empire Mills is a historically preserved and restored 1913 cotton seed oil mill turned event venue, located in historic Madison, Georgia. You are sure to fall in love at first sight!
PLACES TO EAT IN MADISON, GEORGIA
Enjoy signature pizzas, pastas, wings, or an ice cold craft beer from Amici Brewing Co. Home of Amici’s original restaurant, Amici Madison features a full bar, patio and frequent live entertainment.
174 W Washington St, Madison, GA 30650
706-557-9021
HOURS
Tues-Thurs, 11AM–9PM
Fri-Sat, 11AM–10PM
Sun, 12–8PM
Mon, Closed
Deli, grocery and produce. Tasty sandwiches, soups, salads, plus a cool beer and wine bar. Outdoor seating too.
111 W Jefferson St, Madison, GA 30650
706-438-1505
HOURS
Mon-Sat, 10AM–8PM
Sunday, Closed
Fun little taco joint with bar, outdoor seating, and a friendly vibe!
140 E Washington St, Madison, GA 30650
706-438-1232
HOURS
Thursday, 11AM–9PM
Friday, 11AM–10PM
Saturday, 11AM–10PM
Sunday, Closed
Madison Chophouse Grille Steak house
202 S Main St, Madison, GA 30650
706-342-9009
HOURS
Sun-Thurs, 11AM–9PM
Fri-Sat, 11AM–10PM
Ricardo's Kouzzina
Fresh Mediterranean fare and seafood in a friendly atmosphere.
271 W Washington St, Madison, GA 30650
706-342-0729
HOURS
Tues-Thurs, 11:30AM–2PM, 4:30–8:30PM
Fri-Sat, 11:30AM–2PM, 4:30–9PM
Sun-Mon, Closed
Ice Cream
Coffee & Sandwiches
THINGS TO DO IN MADISON, GEORGIA
Summer Nights
Madison Town Park
218 W. Jefferson St, Madison, GA 30650
June 8, 2023, from 6-9:00 p.m.
Brought to you by Main Street Madison, enjoy free, live music from the SquirrelHeads with Shelby McLeod from 6-9:00 p.m. Get a drink from the beer garden hosted by Amici and dance on the great lawn. In addition to numerous local restaurants surrounding the park, there will also be some food trucks nearby.
Free Historic District Walking Tour
Dive into the fascinating history of Madison, Georgia, on this free, self-guided walking tour through the Historic District.
Tour Madison’s House Museums Dive into Madison’s past while visiting Heritage Hall, Rose Cottage or Rogers House. Each built at a different time in history with fascinating stories of the people who lived in them, tour one or all three with a $15 combo ticket. https://mchistorical.com/
Madison-Morgan Cultural Center
This 1895 Romanesque Revival schoolhouse has been transformed into a center for learning and the arts with historical exhibits, permanent and rotating galleries and musical performances by world-renowned musicians.
https://www.mmcc-arts.org/
Morgan County African-American Museum
Located in the heart of Madison’s historic district, Morgan County African-American Museum’s mission is to research, collect, educate, and preserve the history and art of the local African American culture.
https://mcaam.org/
Offers a wide range of recreational opportunities in a beautiful wooded setting. A lakeside beach is popular with swimmers during summer months, and more than 24 miles of trails are available for hikers and horseback riders.
Overnight guests can choose from fully equipped cottages or a modern campground. Hook-ups for RV campers.
5 Hard Labor Creek Rd, Rutledge, GA 30663
The Creek at Hard Labor is known for its challenging layout in a pristine, natural setting. Featuring Champion Bermuda greens and narrow tree-lined fairways, The Creek was named “4th sweetest deal in USA” by Golf Digest Frugal Golfer in 2010.
1400 Knox Chapel Rd, Social Circle, GA 30025
THINGS TO DO JUST OUTSIDE MADISON, GEORGIA
Georgia Offroad Adventures has over 100 miles of one-way trails for off-road rides, whether you have a SxS, ATV, or dirtbike.
2350 Randolph Church Rd #2016, Union Point, GA 30669
706-486-0091
202 N West St, Greensboro, GA 30642
706-920-1177
