Madison County, New York: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Aerial view of Green Lakes State Park in Madison County, New York showing the vibrant blue-green meromictic lake surrounded by lush forest

Did you know that Madison County is home to one of only two meromictic lakes in New York State? These rare lakes, with waters that never completely mix, create a stunning blue-green color that appears almost otherworldly. This hidden natural wonder is just one of many surprises waiting for visitors in this charming region of Central New York.

Getting to Madison County

Located in Central New York, Madison County is easily accessible by car, with Interstate 90 (New York State Thruway) running through its northern portion. The nearest major airport is Syracuse Hancock International Airport, approximately 30 minutes from the county’s northern border.

For visitors flying in from further away, several options are available. Syracuse offers connections to major hubs across the United States, making it convenient for travelers from virtually anywhere.

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Once you arrive at the airport, you’ll want to rent a car to explore the county properly, as public transportation options are limited in this rural area. Having your own vehicle allows you to discover hidden gems at your own pace.

Best Time to Visit Madison County

Madison County experiences four distinct seasons, each offering unique attractions and activities. Your ideal visiting time depends on what you’d like to experience.

Summer (June-August)

Perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming at Green Lakes State Park, and exploring waterfalls. Summer also brings numerous festivals and farmers’ markets showcasing local produce.

Fall (September-November)

The landscape transforms with spectacular foliage colors. This is an ideal time for scenic drives, hiking, and visiting farms for apple picking, pumpkin patches, and harvest festivals.

Winter/Spring (December-May)

Winter offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities, while spring brings maple syrup celebrations at local farms and the first blooms of the season.

Autumn landscape in Madison County, New York showing vibrant fall foliage with red and orange trees lining a country road

Getting Around Madison County

Madison County’s rural character and spread-out attractions make having a car essential for visitors. The county features well-maintained roads that connect its charming towns and natural wonders.

While some attractions are within walking distance in towns like Cazenovia and Chittenango, most of the county’s highlights require driving between locations. The good news is that traffic is minimal, and the scenic drives between destinations are part of the experience.

Explore at Your Own Pace

Rent a car to discover all of Madison County’s hidden gems and scenic backroads.

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For cyclists, the county offers several bike trails, including sections of the Old Erie Canal State Historic Park trail, which provides a flat, scenic route perfect for casual riders.

Where to Stay in Madison County

Madison County offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to different preferences and budgets. From historic inns to modern hotels, you’ll find comfortable places to rest after a day of exploration.

The Brewster Inn

This historic Gilded-Age mansion in Cazenovia offers elegant rooms with stunning lake views. Dating back to 1890, the inn combines period charm with modern amenities and features an award-winning restaurant.

The historic Brewster Inn in Cazenovia, Madison County, New York, a beautiful Gilded-Age mansion with views of Cazenovia Lake

Other notable options include the Oneida Community Mansion House, which offers a unique opportunity to stay in a historic communal living space, and several charming bed and breakfasts scattered throughout the county’s picturesque towns.

For budget-conscious travelers, chain hotels can be found near the Thruway exits, particularly around Canastota and Chittenango. Vacation rentals are also increasingly available, offering privacy and often spectacular rural settings.

Top Attractions in Madison County

Madison County offers a diverse range of attractions that appeal to nature lovers, history buffs, and families alike. Here are some must-visit spots during your stay:

Natural Wonders

Chittenango Falls State Park

This 167-foot waterfall cascades over 400-million-year-old bedrock, creating one of the most picturesque scenes in Central New York. Hiking trails lead to various viewing points, including a footbridge at the base of the falls that provides spectacular photo opportunities.

The 167-foot Chittenango Falls in Madison County, New York with water cascading over ancient bedrock

Green Lakes State Park

Home to two meromictic lakes with their distinctive blue-green color, this park offers swimming, hiking, and picnicking opportunities. The lakes’ unusual color comes from their unique chemistry, where the water layers never completely mix—a rare natural phenomenon worth experiencing.

Historical Sites

Lorenzo State Historic Site

This beautifully preserved 1807 estate in Cazenovia offers a glimpse into the life of John Lincklaen, the founder of Cazenovia. Tour the mansion with its period furnishings, explore the formal garden, and visit the carriage house with its collection of antique carriages.

Oneida Community Mansion House

Once home to the Oneida Community, a utopian religious society founded in 1848, this massive building now serves as a museum where visitors can learn about this fascinating social experiment. You can even stay overnight in rooms that once housed community members.

The historic Oneida Community Mansion House in Madison County, New York, a large brick building that once housed a utopian religious community

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Family-Friendly Activities

Madison County offers plenty of attractions that will delight visitors of all ages, making it an excellent destination for family trips.

The Wild Animal Park

Located just north of Chittenango, this 14-acre zoo houses an impressive collection of animals including gray wolves, Bengal tigers, and grizzly bears. The interactive parakeet enclosure, where birds land on visitors to feed, is particularly popular with children.

Children feeding colorful parakeets at The Wild Animal Park in Madison County, New York

More Family Favorites

  • Critz Farms – Offering seasonal activities from maple syrup production in spring to apple picking and pumpkin patches in fall, plus a brewing company for adults.
  • All Things Oz Museum – Celebrating Chittenango native L. Frank Baum, author of “The Wizard of Oz,” with an extensive collection of memorabilia.
  • Delphi Falls County Park – A beautiful two-tier waterfall with picnic areas and wading opportunities in the crystal-clear water.
  • Dining and Local Cuisine

    Madison County’s agricultural heritage translates into excellent farm-to-table dining experiences and local food products worth seeking out during your visit.

    Top Dining Spots

  • Madison Bistro – Award-winning burgers and steaks in a farm-to-table setting, with locally sourced ingredients.
  • Ray Brother’s BBQ – Mouth-watering slow-cooked meats smoked over local woods for 5-14 hours, with live music often featured.
  • The Brewster Inn Restaurant – Fine dining with lake views in a historic mansion setting, featuring an award-winning wine selection.
  • Local Food Products

  • Jewett’s Cheese House – Specializing in aged New York cheddar, with varieties aged from 6 months to 6 years.
  • Kriemhild Dairy – Farm-owned dairy producing grass-fed butter and other dairy products, with a self-serve store operating on the honor system.
  • Critz Farms Brewing and Cider Company – Award-winning ales, ciders, and hard ciders made from farm-grown ingredients.
  • Various aged cheddar cheeses on display at Jewett's Cheese House in Madison County, New York

    Outdoor Activities and Recreation

    Madison County’s diverse landscape offers numerous opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.

    Hiking and Nature Trails

    The county features several excellent hiking options, from the trails around Green Lakes and Chittenango Falls to the Stone Quarry Hill Art Park, which combines outdoor art with natural beauty across its 104 acres and four miles of trails.

    Hiking trail through Stone Quarry Hill Art Park in Madison County, New York with outdoor sculptures visible among trees

    Seasonal Recreation

    Summer Activities

  • Swimming at Green Lakes State Park’s beach
  • Fishing in the county’s numerous streams and lakes
  • Cycling along the Old Erie Canal State Historic Park trail
  • Winter Activities

  • Cross-country skiing on designated trails
  • Snowshoeing through scenic winter landscapes
  • Ice fishing on frozen lakes (weather permitting)
  • Practical Tips for Visitors

    Make the most of your Madison County adventure with these helpful tips:

    Weather

    Central New York experiences all four seasons distinctly. Summers are generally pleasant with temperatures in the 70s-80s°F. Winters can be cold and snowy, with temperatures often below freezing. Spring and fall are mild but can be unpredictable—layered clothing is recommended.

    Local Etiquette

    Madison County residents are typically friendly and welcoming. Rural areas observe a slower pace of life—embrace it rather than rush. When visiting farms or self-serve stands operating on the honor system, respect their trust by paying accurately for products.

    Planning Ahead

    Many attractions have seasonal hours or are weather-dependent. Check websites or call ahead before visiting, especially in off-peak seasons. Some rural areas have limited cell service, so download maps in advance.

    Scenic country road in Madison County, New York with rolling hills and farms in the background

    Annual Events and Festivals

    Madison County hosts several signature events throughout the year that showcase local culture, history, and products:

    Madison-Bouckville Antique Week

    Held each August, this is one of the largest antique events in the Northeast, drawing thousands of dealers and collectors. The main show field and surrounding areas fill with vendors offering everything from fine antiques to vintage collectibles.

    Vendors and shoppers at the Madison-Bouckville Antique Week in Madison County, New York

    Other Notable Events

  • Oz-Stravaganza – Chittenango’s annual celebration of hometown hero L. Frank Baum, author of “The Wizard of Oz,” featuring parades, costume contests, and special guests.
  • Madison County Hop Fest – Celebrating the county’s hop-growing heritage with craft beer tastings, live music, and educational presentations.
  • Maple Weekend – Held in March, local maple producers open their facilities for tours, demonstrations, and tastings of fresh maple products.
  • Why Madison County Should Be Your Next Destination

    Madison County offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and rural charm that makes for a refreshing escape from busy city life. From the otherworldly blue-green waters of Green Lakes to the thundering cascade of Chittenango Falls, from farm-fresh cuisine to fascinating historical sites, this hidden gem in Central New York promises authentic experiences that will create lasting memories.

    Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural discoveries, family fun, or simply a peaceful retreat in picturesque surroundings, Madison County delivers with genuine hospitality and without the crowds of more famous destinations. Pack your sense of adventure and prepare to be surprised by all that awaits in this delightful corner of New York State.

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