Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Madison, Maine

Situated in central Maine’s Somerset County, the town of Madison boasts a population of slightly over 4,000 inhabitants and is equidistant from the Atlantic coast to the east and south, New Hampshire to the west, and Canada to the north.

The town was established in the early 1800s and, for generations prior, was inhabited by the Norridgewock and Abenaki Native American communities.

Just a brief drive from several of the state’s most popular historical and natural destinations, Madison provides an excellent opportunity to experience the ruggedness and charm of New England that attracts out-of-state visitors.
Below are 15 activities to enjoy in and around Madison.

1. Historical Societies

In contrast to most cities and towns that opt for a single historical society, Madison is home to two, both of which operate small museums accessible to the public.

The museum of the Madison Historical and Genealogical Society is housed in the Old Point school building and features a diverse collection of historical artifacts including clothing, photographs, tools, and household items that were commonly utilized in earlier centuries.

The town’s second facility is situated on East Madison, next to the fire station.

Historically, a substantial portion of the region’s economy relied on the Kennebec River, which served as a vital transportation route as well as a significant food source; thus, many of the exhibits highlight towns that once flourished along the river.

2. Lakewood Golf Course

Maine’s spring and summer climate is ideally suited for outdoor activities, with golf being one of the primary attractions for those visiting from different regions of the country where conditions can be exceedingly warm, especially during June, July, and August.

Nestled amidst some of the state’s most picturesque landscapes, Lakewood Golf Course ranks among the area’s most frequented golfing destinations.

Previous patrons have reported that the 18-hole course is meticulously maintained, features breathtaking mountain vistas, and presents a significant challenge.

It even includes a challenging 660-yard par six, so it is advisable to warm up that Big Bertha with a hearty breakfast.

It is wise to secure tee times ahead of your visit, especially during peak periods.

3. Maine’s State Theater

Founded almost 120 years ago, Maine’s State Theater in East Madison has been captivating audiences since its inception. Although the venue has undergone numerous renovations since then, it still retains much of its original character and allure.

Initially named the Lakewood Theater, it boasts the longest continually running summer production program in the nation.

With offerings that include live music, theatrical productions, musicals, and even children’s performances, there is something for everyone. For those wishing to extend their outing, the Lakewood Inn Restaurant is among the region’s most recommended dining establishments.

4. Somerset Abbey

Madison’s Somerset Abbey is among the most ancient and well-preserved examples of its kind in the state, now serving as a prominent community performing arts venue that attracts crowds throughout the year.

Characterized by stunning architecture, intricate woodwork, and exquisite stained glass, the abbey retains much of its original aesthetic and hosts a grand pipe organ that is nearly a century old.

The venue organizes an array of performances spanning comedy and drama to musical concerts. During the delightful spring and summer seasons, one or two events are typically scheduled each week.

For the latest events, check online or consult a local resident.

5. North Star Orchards

Conveniently located on Orchard Road near Route 43, North Star Orchards serves as an excellent destination for those interested in immersing themselves in the outdoors without spending extensive time traveling.

This family-owned farm features a working orchard where visitors can pick their own apples, along with a year-round gift shop stocked with local produce and tempting prepared food items, including cider, pie, and baked goods.

The orchard offers magnificent views of nearby mountains and rolling hills, particularly popular during the fall season when numerous apple varieties are at peak ripeness.

6. Colony House Inn

Originally constructed in 1929, during a time when Madison was nestled in the heart of Maine’s lush forests, the Colony House Inn became a favored summer retreat for individuals residing in major eastern cities like Boston, New York, and Philadelphia.

This inn is an ideal location for visitors seeking a unique accommodation experience, particularly those weary of conventional chain hotels devoid of character.

Overlooking picturesque Lake Wesserunsett, the Inn provides guests with a range of recreational activities, including golf, hiking, swimming, and fishing.

7. Father Rasle Monument

According to historians, the first European explorers to encounter the Madison area were Jesuit priests traveling to establish a monastery in what is now Augusta.

In an era when many perceived Native Americans as a threat to be eradicated, Father Rasle formed a bond with the indigenous communities and advocated for the defense of their ancestral territories, which positioned him as a traitor in the eyes of the majority of white settlers.

The monument honoring Father Rasle, located in Madison, is open for public visitation without charge. It offers a unique glimpse into a lesser-known aspect of New England history and is well worth a few moments of your time.

8. Waterville Opera House

For nearly 120 years, the Waterville Opera House has served as a premier venue for a wide array of performing arts.

Set in an 800-seat auditorium that maintains its historical ambiance, the venue has been upgraded over the years to include state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, resulting in a harmonious blend of classic and modern.

The Waterville Opera House offers a variety of educational and instructional programs throughout the year as well.

Known for its picturesque setting, reasonable pricing, and high-quality productions, the Waterville Opera House is an excellent choice for spending an enjoyable evening.

9. Colby College Museum of Art

While numerous small liberal arts colleges feature museums and galleries, the Colby College Museum of Art stands out prominently.

In addition to serving as a traditional museum, it hosts a variety of instructional and educational events year-round; many of which are free and accessible to the public.

The museum’s exhibitions and programs are continually evolving, frequently featuring temporary exhibits from other institutions, ensuring visitors may experience something unique with each visit.

Admission to the museum is complimentary, and taking a stroll around Colby’s beautiful campus is highly recommended during your visit.

10. Maine Film Center

Frequently undervalued, film is one of the most admired contemporary mediums for artistic expression, and the Maine Film Center is dedicated to its preservation and promotion.

A significant aspect of their mission involves engaging youth with the art of filmmaking; to this end, they host a plethora of educational and instructional initiatives, many led by renowned artists and educators.

The Railroad Square Cinema is recognized nationally as one of the most prestigious independent theaters, and is among the oldest as well.

Consult their website’s event calendar to discover what’s scheduled during your time in the area.

11. Maine International Film Festival

For over twenty years, the Maine Film Center has annually hosted the Maine International Film Festival.

Held over ten days each July, this festival has become one of the area’s most sought-after artistic events, attracting audiences from across the nation.

Over 100 films are showcased each year, featuring productions from around the globe.

Differentiating it from many independent film festivals, the Maine International Film Festival provides a myriad of opportunities to interact with actors, producers, and performers, offering a unique and personal insight into the film industry and the complexities of producing a motion picture.

12. Bates Dance Festival

Regardless of the time of your visit to scenic central Maine, various annual festivals will likely be available; among these, the Bates Dance Festival in Lewiston is particularly notable.

This event takes place in Pettigrew Hall on the Bates College campus in Lewiston at the close of spring.

The festival comprises multiple programs ranging from amateur to professional performances and encompasses various age groups as well.

Alongside dance, a variety of other visual and performing arts will be represented, so visit their website for specific details.

13. Lewiston-Auburn Greek Festival

Set to take place during the first weekend of September, the Lewiston-Auburn Greek Festival is organized by Lewiston’s Greek Orthodox Church, which has been serving the community for over a century.

Historically, many of the area’s mills employed immigrant laborers, a significant number of whom are of Greek descent. Although many of their descendants have relocated to larger cities such as Boston, certain cultural traditions have persisted within the community.

The Greek Festival celebrates all things Greek, featuring music, games, religious insights, and historical exhibits, along with a delectable array of Greek cuisine that frequently takes center stage at the event.

14. Great Falls Brew Fest

There is something inherent about New England that contributes to its reputation for producing exceptional beer.

In recent years, preferences have shifted from the flavorless offerings of national mega breweries, prompting many beer enthusiasts to seek out local and regional craft breweries that deliver higher-quality products.

Since its inception in 2014, the Lewiston-Auburn community has hosted the Great Falls Brew Fest. Although it began on a small scale, it has evolved into one of the region’s largest and most favored events of its kind.

The festival now features selections from 50 breweries, complemented by a variety of food options, games, and live entertainment.

15. Kennebec River

Lakes and rivers have historically played crucial roles in the lives of Maine’s inhabitants, with the Kennebec River flowing through numerous historic towns.

Over the years, this river has served diverse purposes such as transportation, power supply for mills, commercial fishing, and recreational activities.

Renowned for offering some of the best fishing opportunities in the state, the Kennebec River and its tributaries provide options for whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, and camping for both locals and visitors throughout much of the year.

A selection of guided tour options are available, many of which are situated in the Madison region. For those inclined to self-explore, it remains feasible to discover relatively secluded stretches of river.