23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Madison (CT)

Madison is a town in Connecticut, United States. It is tucked away in southeastern New Haven County.

Madison lies on the Long Island Sound Shoreline of Connecticut in a prominent location.

This town was once rated as one of the top beach towns in Yankee Magazine. Aside from the beaches, Madison consists of several attractions.

Madison displays a blend of urban civilization and local charm, making it an amazing town perfect for any vacation.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Madison, CT.

Things to Do in Madison, CT

1. Hammonasset Beach State Park

The Hammonasset Beach State Park is a two-mile beachfront located on the Long Island Sound. This beautiful recreational area is one of the best places to visit in Madison, CT.

The State Park is widely recognized as the biggest shoreline park in Connecticut and is an extremely popular tourist destination, welcoming about one million visitors annually.

The Hammonasset Beach State Park consists of an enormous campground that pleases those seeking a secure and beautiful place to camp.

Its campground, with coastal woodland and marshland, can accommodate over five hundred units.

The State Park also consists of a nature center with large grounds to carry out a wide range of beach activities.

Some fun activities here include boating, hiking, swimming, biking, fishing, picnicking, and more.

Address: 1288 Boston Post Rd, Madison, CT 06443, United States

2. The Shoreline Greenway Trail

If you want an amazing outdoor experience, consider visiting the Shoreline Greenway Trail.

The Shoreline Greenway Trail was officially opened to the public in 2014. Its Hammonasset passage rests in Madison, CT.

The Greenway came up as an action of New Heaven City in unity with other communities to develop pedestrian, bike, and wheelchair-friendly links.

The Shoreline Greenway Trail features bike lanes that take users to their destination. The Trail leads for nearly one mile. It is known as one of the area’s most frequented walking and biking trails.

This place is also a paradise for bird watching, so whenever you want to go outdoors looking for something fun to do, visit this place.

Address: Madison, CT 06443, United States

3. Creations

Creations, located in the middle of Madison’s downtown shopping district, is a fantastic retail outlet.

Creations promote beautiful works of more than 180 pieces made by various artisans in the country’s Northeast region.

As a retail space, Creations has a mission to search for everything unique and creative as well as celebrate beauty and position.

It is owned and operated by Vista Life Innovations, a nonprofit organization striving to sustain persons with disabilities.

All the funds gathered from the sales of products at Creations go into the programs and services of the organization.

Creations offers unique gifts of great quality. Every item available here has something that stands out from the rest. Shopping at Creations is one of the best things to do in Madison, CT.

 Address: 698 Boston Post Rd, Madison, CT 06443, United States

4. Field House Farm

This is a place that offers an eclectic combination of experience of both history and adventure in Madison, CT.

The Field House Farm is a family-owned farm located on the state shoreline. It features a farmhouse that dates back to 1720, and its grounds are now used to aid farm operations.

The property features an expansive garden used for production along with rearing several animals like pigs, chickens, alpine goats, donkeys, shetland sheep, and more.

The Field House Farm offers programs and courses for children and adults focusing on farm practices and animal care.

Address: 623 Green Hill Rd, Madison, CT 06443, United States

5. Meigs Point Nature Center

Meigs Point Nature Center, located around the enormous Hammonasset Beach State Park, is an attraction everyone loves to visit.

The Meigs Point Nature Center is an important and thrilling learning location that specializes in environmental sciences.

The facility is open to people of different ages. It is one of the most charming sites in the Park system of Connecticut.

The Center features an observation deck from which visitors can view the environment clearly.

The Meigs Point Nature Center offers several hands-on activities with a touch tank, which is open seasonally for guests to have an intimate experience with some of the small sea’s treasures.

You get to see a variety of water animals like turtles, crabs, snakes, amphibians, and crabs, which can’t be sent out into the wild.

The Meigs Point Nature Center runs schemes such as bird walks, canoe trips, science experiments, arts and crafts, workshops, beachcombing, and more. It is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Madison, CT.

Address: 1288 Boston Post Rd, Madison, CT 06443, United States

6. The Audubon Shop

Your list of fun things to do in Madison, CT, wouldn’t be complete without going on a tour with Audubon Shop. It boasts of being the number one bird-watching center in the state.

The Audubon Shop is owned and operated by a lovely couple, Jerry and Janet Connolly. It is found in an ancient house located close to the Long Island Sound.

The shop is also strategically located not too far from Hammonasset Beach State Park, which is known as one of the top birding spots in Connecticut.

Depending on the season, the Audubon Shop offers bird tours to bird lovers, bird feeders, and other birding materials.

The Audubon Shop features a fantastic collection of maps, books, and gear, such as telescopes, binoculars, tripods, and other accessories.

One of the best periods to visit the city is during fall migration when you can join experts for a tour of Hammonasset Beach State Park, where you will find different kinds of birds like waterfowls, Eagles, shorebirds, and so on.

Make sure you visit the park with your family and friends and enjoy the scenic view of birds roaming around.

Address: 907 Boston Post Rd, Madison, CT 06443, United States

7. Bar Bouchee

No city is complete without wonderful restaurants that offer citizens memorable dining experiences.

Bar Bouchee is a renowned restaurant popular for serving authentic, delicious, and affordable comfort fares.

This classic restaurant provides a personal and intimate environment, making it a perfect place where people can meet and hang out.

The operation of this place is motivated by “bounchons,” or community bistros, originating from Lyon, a city in France.

Bar Bouchee offers an extensive food menu featuring Pan Roasted Half Chicken, Black Angus Hanger Steak, Peach Financier, Vanilla Crème Brulée, and more.

The restaurant provides a nicely designed interior with comfortable seats and a welcoming ambiance for the sole pleasure of the guests.

Address: 8 Scotland Ave, Madison, CT 06443, United States

8. Chef Paul Barron

For whatever reason, you might be traveling to Connecticut; learning something new would be one of your best decisions.

Chef Paul Barron is open for locals and visitors interested in joining any of his cooking classes.

Chef Barron is known for offering a wide range of cooking classes, focusing his courses on teaching methods and procedures.

He doesn’t depend on teaching bulky recipes but on allowing the students to transmit what they learned into their everyday lives.

Chef Paul Barron offers these cooking classes only on Tuesdays, and each session extends for about three hours.

It would be best to opt for pre-registration before the current classes since only six persons are allowed for each class.

Address: 837 Boston Post Rd, Madison, CT 06443, United States

Also Read: Fun Things to Do in Stamford (CT)

9. Lenny & Joe’s Fish Tale

Lenny & Joe’s Fish Tale began as a casual roadside stand way back in 1979 with just four picnic tables for guests.

The owners of the restaurant made a promise back then to customers only to serve the best and freshest seafood.

They always make sure the prices of the meals are affordable to customers, offering quick services and a comfortable environment.

Lenny & Joe’s Fish Tale serves Royal Treat Sundae, Oreo Cookie, Reese’s Pieces Treat, Ice Cream Sundaes, Extra Sundae Toppings, Hot Fudge & Whipped Cream, and more.

They ensure everything they serve is prepared freshly daily onsite in order to give customers nothing but the best.

Address: 1301 Boston Post Rd, Madison, CT 06443, United States

10. Susan Powell Fine Art

Susan Powell Fine Art was founded by Susan Powell in 1981. It features eye-catching art pieces.

The owner of this prestigious gallery boasts of having more than forty years of experience working with various companies and brands.

She worked at the painting department of Doyle Auction as the former director, including at the Smithsonian Institution.

Susan Powell Fine Art features about fifty talented and award-winning artists, such as Ira Barkoff, Jeff Erickson, Harley Bartlett, and David Dunlop.

The company specializes in curating charming private artworks for any budget, including different kinds of art pieces.

Susan Powell Fine Art presents new presentations each month to promote the artists and satisfy the demands of collectors.

If you’re an art enthusiast, visiting this gallery should be on your itinerary of top things to do in Madison, CT.

Address: 679 Boston Post Road, Madison, CT 06443, United States

11. Rockland Preserve

Considering its beauty and natural gift, Rockland Preserve is a favorite destination for locals and tourists.

The preserve is known for its rocky hills, majestic grounds, and outstanding wooden areas, including steep gray cliffs and fascinating ledges.

The attraction can be accessed by walkers and hikers using the routes formerly used by the town’s earliest residents and were abandoned.

The Cone Pond can be found at the heart of the Rockland Preserve, encompassed by beautiful wildlife and unique flowers.

Rockland Preserve features single tracks open to both mountain bikers and runners, with a bike park consisting of rollers, pump tracks, a skills area, and more.

Address: Madison, Connecticut 06443, United States

12. Allis-Bushnell House and Museum

In a city like Madison, there are lots of things to discover, experience, and learn. One of the best ways to do this is by exploring Allis-Bushnell House and Museum.

Allis-Bushnell House and Museum is a loved attraction in the town that opened in 1785. It was previously the home of two significant families in Madison.

This Museum is unique compared to the rest as it offers visitors the opportunity to experience five different eras under one roof, from the colonial period until the 1920s.

Every room in the lower levels of the building carries about one period through decorative pieces, architectural elements, furniture, artworks, home tools, and more.

Allis-Bushnell House and Museum features tour guides who tell stories about life here during the Colonial Revival, Revolutionary War, the Civil War, and more.

Do well to visit Allis-Bushnell House and Museum and check out some of the displayed artifacts and historical data.

Address: 853 Boston Post Road, Madison, Connecticut 06443, United States

13. M&J Beach Grille and Seafood

For a splendid summer experience, grab a nice meal at M&J Beach Grille and Seafood, a restaurant proclaimed to serve the freshest seafood.

Due to the proximity of M&J Beach Grille and Seafood to the beachfront, visitors get to enjoy scenic views.

The restaurant offers several picnic tables outdoors on the sand, serving people deliciously made meals with fantastic views.

M&J Beach Grille and Seafood’s regular customers usually talk about their fish and chips featuring cooked fries, fresh breaded cod, and tangy colesaw.

Make sure you try out their fish and chips, which food lovers voted the number one on the whole shoreline.

 M&J Beach Grille and Seafood also offer avocado veggie wrap, sea salad, Hummel’s Big Bite Hot Dog, and more.

Regular visitors of this restaurant give credit to the distinct taste and appetizing appearance of the meals, including the exceptional customer service.

Address: 87 Surf Club Road, Madison, Connecticut 06443, United States

14. Cafe Allegre

A delicious and hearty breakfast is the perfect way to begin your mornings.

So, don’t fail to include a visit to Cafe Allegre in your list of top things to do in Madison, CT.

Cafe Allegre, an award-winning cafe, is located in the middle of Madison’s downtown district and is known for offering good food and services.

This family-owned and operated restaurant has been serving delicious treats for over forty-five years.

The kinds of food they serve are nothing short of delicious and sumptuous, along with a great show of hospitality.

Address: 725 Boston Post Rd, Madison, CT 06443, United States

15. Friends and Company

Whenever you’re famished and searching for a great place to dine, stop by Friends and Company, one of the most trusted eating points in Madison.

Friends and Company was established in 1980 and is located close to the charming East River.

The restaurant is popular for offering an upgraded American menu with a unique twist, making it stand out.

The owners of this business are dedicated to serving freshly made healthy delicacies onsite directly from scratch.

Friends and Company offers a comfortable and soothing atmosphere where you can spend time with your loved ones.

Visitors can enjoy delicious and refreshing drinks on their deck during summer, including a meal by the fire in winter.

Try out their Panko Fried Oysters, Herb Crusted Cod, Sweet Potato Burger, the New York Strip Steak, the Shrimp Piccata, and more.

Address: 11 Boston Post Road, Madison, Connecticut 06443, United States

16. Deacon John Graves House

Do you wish to travel back in time? Have the opportunity to take a ride through timeless history when you visit Deacon John Graves House.

Deacon John Graves House features one of the earliest homes constructed in the Easter settlements of Guilford.

The Museum was established in 1685. It has been informing the public about the fascinating and horrifying tales of the seven generations that lived in the house as their home up until 1979.

The historical site accurately tells the family’s history with massive details going through a logbook used by the first four generations of the family, which carries details about their lives.

Deacon John Graves House’s walls feature stories about the lives of the family, as well as the sorrows, joys, deaths, and the several battles they fought to survive.

If you visit the Deacon John Graves House, you can enjoy an exciting tour that gives you insights into the family. 

Deacon John Graves House is available for various events and guided tours for individuals and groups by appointment.

Address: 581 Boston Post Road, Madison, Connecticut 06443, United States

17. Scranton Memorial Library

Scranton Memorial Library was donated in 1901 to Madison town by Mary Scranton, a wealthy citizen.

This is the only community’s public library, which makes it of great significance up to date. After being in existence for over three decades, a wonderful department has been made for children.

The Library is an essential facility offering over eight hundred and fifty programs manually to various age groups.

Scranton Memorial Library offers little children storytime, workshops, and other exciting activities. The library provides a calm location for adults to carry out their normal work using the computers and free Wi-Fi.

Scranton Memorial Library is a fully equipped library with magazines, books, newspapers, and more for members to use.

Address: 801 Boston Post Rd, Madison, CT 06443, United States

18. Surf Club Beach

Surf Club Beach is a captivating attraction open to the entire public. It features clear, charming sand with a 365-meter arc.

The Surf Club contains about forty-five acres on the gorgeous Long Island, bordering the Madison Country Club and a peaceful residential region.

There is a collection of nice facilities, such as bocce courts, basketball courts, volleyball courts, sports fields, horse pits, and more.

The facility also consists of a sailboat and kayak launch, including a concession stand serving nice snacks and drinks.

If you think you’re ready to get outside for the major adventure, don’t hesitate to add exploring Surf Club Beach to your list of fun things to do in Madison, CT.

Address: 13 Surf Club Rd, Madison, CT 06443, United States

19. RJ Julia Booksellers

RJ Julia Booksellers is an independent bookstore that has existed for about thirty years.

The major aim of the bookstore is to find prominent writers and authors of the best-selling books in the town.

When you visit the place, you might get the opportunity to meet and greet several famous and upcoming authors.

RJ Julia Booksellers organizes events that are entertaining, private, and diverse. It is highly recommended you make reservations as they fill up pretty fast.

The owner of the store named it in honor of her grandmother, and the store was founded by her love for books, which she took from her dad.

Address: 768 Boston Post Road, Madison, CT 06443, United States

20. Great Wall Chinese Restaurant

You’re missing out if you haven’t eaten at Great Wall Chinese Restaurant in Madison.

Great Wall Chinese Restaurant is a wonderful Chinese restaurant that offers an array of meals. The meals served are made delicious with the original Chinese flavor, which does nothing but delight your taste buds.

They represent a typical traditional Chinese restaurant due to its interior designs, chairs, tables, and food.

Great Wall Chinese Restaurant takes you on a journey to China without having to actually travel several miles.

Their menu features Roast Pork Egg Rolls, Bar-B-Q Spare Ribs, Boneless Ribs, Chicken Fingers, Fantail Shrimp, Shrimp Rolls, and more.

Address: 508 Old Toll Rd #8018, Madison, CT 06443, United States

21. Madison Green Historic District

Madison Green Historic District has been in existence since 1705 when it served as a meeting spot for what was known as East Guilford.

After that, the historic district was converted to a village center. It was later proclaimed a town hall in 1826 after Madison was officially incorporated.

This attraction was added in 1982 to the National Register of Historic Places. It is known for its unique architectural design on its margin.

Madison Green Historic District is extremely popular because of Madison Green, which is the main highlight.

The historic district is surrounded by significant buildings, such as the first congregational place of worship constructed in 1838.

Other structures include Academy Elementary School, a community meeting building, Lee Academy, and Memorial Hall.

Address: Madison, CT 06443, United States

22. Jia Mei

Jia Mei means “Good food.” Dining at this restaurant should be top on the list of anyone who loves Chinese delicacies.

The restaurant has officially been open to the public for about two years. It has become one of the top Chinese restaurants.

The restaurant is dedicated to using only the freshest ingredients sourced locally in making its dishes.

Jia Mei offers more takeout due to its proximity to the Madison train station, featuring a nice and calm setting perfect for dining.

Some of their most delicious meals include Dumplings, Beef Fried Rice, Wonton Soup, Steamed Chicken and White Rice, Pork Fried Rice, Fried Banana, Curry Chicken with Onion, and more.

Address: 105 Wall St, Madison, CT 06443, United States

23. Madison Art Cinema

Still looking for what to do in Madison? See a movie at Madison Art Cinema with your friends and family.

Madison Art Cinema is a wonderful Madison attraction that offers a private and intimate environment for visitors to watch the latest local and international movies.

Its structure was first known as the Bonoff Theatre in 1912 as a one-screen cinema before another auditorium was later erected.

Community-based organizations also use the facility for fundraisers and other community gatherings.

Madison Art Cinema was formerly used as a meeting center and gymnasium before it was fully renovated into a cinema.

The Cinema features one-of-a-kind sound systems, large Television screens, concessions, and more.

Address: 761 Boston Post Rd, Madison, CT 06443, United States

Also Read: Fun Things to Do in Danbury (CT)

Plan Your Trip to Madison

Madison is a beautiful town that attracts visitors with various interests and needs, from outdoor adventures to food tours, recreational opportunities, historic pilgrimages, and more.

You won’t lack what to do in Madison, CT, with our well-curated list of things to do and attractions to explore in Madison, CT.