Inside: Discover Extraordinary Living
Boasting beaches, historic landmarks, a vibrant cultural scene, and a pedestrian-friendly downtown, Madison, CT exudes the essence of upscale coastal living. The picturesque Connecticut shoreline town offers a well-balanced mix of quaint charm and modern amenities that have made it a popular destination for both homebuyers and visitors. Notable among its attractions are the Madison Art Cinema, excellent restaurants, a highly reputable school district, and the historic E. C. Scranton Library — designed by the architect Henry Bacon, who also designed the Lincoln Memorial. In addition to its idyllic waterfront setting, Madison offers easy access to farms and woodlands to the north and is conveniently positioned about one hour from Hartford, 30 minutes from New Haven, and about two hours from New York City.
Dining
Madison Beach Hotel
94 West Wharf Rd, Madison
Dining at this posh Long Island Sound waterfront hotel includes several fantastic options, well worth a visit even if you’re not a hotel guest. Coastal elegance is the vibe at The Wharf, which serves up classic New England cuisine and an acclaimed brunch in a fine-dining environment. The restaurant also includes a popular bar and wine room with an extensive selection of spirits, specialty cocktails, craft beers on tap, and wines by the glass. For a more casual option, the Porch is an al-fresco spot with ocean views and a delectable menu.
Bar Bouchée
8 Scotland Ave, Madison
This charming French bistro-style restaurant boasts a warm ambiance — think tiled floors and imported Parisian zinc bar — complemented by traditional, home-style French comfort food crafted from locally sourced ingredients. The wide-ranging menu features favorites like charcuterie boards, oysters, escargot, savory tarts, and Parisian gnocchi. A neighborhood favorite, Bar Bouchee is a boisterous and fun spot sure to please even the pickiest of foodies.
Shopping
RJ Julia Booksellers
768 Boston Post Rd, Madison
This oasis for book lovers has served as a Madison institution for more than 30 years. As much a community hub as a place to get lost in the world of words, RJ Julia stocks an impressive collection of books across various genres and hosts more than 300 events a year including regular author events, book signings, and community gatherings. The thriving independent bookstore also boasts an almost hidden eatery serving lunch entrees, light dinner fare, and coffees and sweets.
Parks & Recreation
Hammonasset State Beach
1288 Boston Post Rd, Madison
No summer in Madison is complete without a trip to Hammonasset State Beach, one of Connecticut’s most popular beaches (more than three million people visit each year!). The state’s largest shoreline park, Hammonasset stretches more than two miles, offering ample room for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors also enjoy walking the boardwalk, picnicking, birdwatching, and exploring Hammonasset’s nature center. Admission is free for residents.
Salt Meadow Dog Park
1362 Boston Post Rd
Madison welcomes four-legged companions, too, at Salt Meadow Dog Park, which provides a safe and fun space for dogs to socialize and play off-leash. The park offers separate areas for large and small dogs, keeping visits stress-free for Madison’s pup parents. The dog park is part of the larger Salt Meadow Park, where residents frequent the sports playing fields, walking path, hiking trails, picnic areas, kayak launch, and natural amphitheater overlooking the water.
Deacon John Grave House
581 Boston Post Rd, Madison
History enthusiasts relish the Deacon John Grave House, an iconic Colonial-era dwelling, built in 1685, that stands as a testament to Madison’s heritage. Offering a window to the past, the historic house offers guided tours and exhibits, giving visitors the chance to explore the story of seven generations of one Madison family. Working across the generations as farmers, haulers, soldiers, innkeepers, shoemakers, dressmakers and weavers, the family’s meticulous entries, kept in account books, shed a rare light on what daily life was like from their early Colonial beginnings up to the 20th century.
