Visit Madison County

Located in the heart of Central New York, Madison County offers travelers a welcoming mix of scenic countryside, historic villages, outdoor recreation, and authentic Upstate New York charm. Positioned between the cities of Syracuse and Utica, the county is an ideal destination for relaxing weekend getaways, cultural exploration, and year-round adventure.

Outdoor enthusiasts will quickly discover why Madison County is considered one of Central New York’s hidden gems. The breathtaking Chittenango Falls State Park features a dramatic 167-foot waterfall cascading through a wooded gorge. Scenic hiking trails, overlooks, and picnic areas make it one of the most photographed natural landmarks in the region.

Nearby Cazenovia Lake and Erie Canal offer even more outdoor recreation. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and peaceful lakeside relaxation. Scenic countryside roads wind through farmland, forests, and rolling hills—perfect for exploring during every season.

Madison County’s charming communities add even more character to the visitor experience. The picturesque village of Cazenovia sits along the shores of its namesake lake and features historic architecture, boutique shops, art galleries, and year-round events. Hamilton, home to Colgate University, offers a vibrant small-town atmosphere with lively restaurants, arts, and cultural events.

The county’s rich heritage is also celebrated through its attractions and festivals. Chittenango is proudly known as the birthplace of L. Frank Baum, author of The Wizard of Oz, and hosts the annual Oz-Stravaganza Festival. In Canastota, sports fans can explore the world-famous International Boxing Hall of Fame, honoring legendary fighters and boxing history.

From scenic waterfalls and lakes to vibrant villages and cultural attractions, Madison County offers visitors an unforgettable Central New York travel experience.

Top Things to Do in Madison County, NY

Madison County offers a wide variety of experiences for travelers looking to explore Central New York’s natural beauty, charming communities, and unique attractions.

Visit Chittenango Falls State Park
One of the most impressive waterfalls in New York State, this 167-foot cascade plunges through a scenic gorge surrounded by hiking trails and overlooks.

Explore the Village of Cazenovia
Stroll through one of Upstate New York’s most picturesque villages filled with boutiques, art galleries, cafés, and beautiful lake views.

Discover the International Boxing Hall of Fame
Located in Canastota, this world-renowned museum celebrates the legends and history of professional boxing.

Attend the Oz-Stravaganza Festival
Each summer, the village of Chittenango celebrates the legacy of The Wizard of Oz with a colorful festival featuring parades, performances, and family activities.

Enjoy Recreation on Cazenovia Lake
Boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing make this scenic lake a favorite destination for outdoor recreation.

Bike the Erie Canalway Trail
This historic multi-use trail follows the route of the Erie Canal and offers scenic biking and walking opportunities.

Best Places to Visit in Madison County

Cazenovia
A charming lakeside village known for its historic downtown, boutique shopping, art galleries, and beautiful views of Cazenovia Lake.

Hamilton
A lively college town anchored by Colgate University, offering restaurants, cultural events, and a vibrant village green.

Chittenango
Famous as the birthplace of Wizard of Oz author L. Frank Baum and home to the annual Oz-Stravaganza Festival.

Canastota
Known worldwide as the home of the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

Cities and Villages in Madison County

Cazenovia
Often considered one of the most scenic villages in Central New York, Cazenovia offers lakeside beauty, historic homes, local boutiques, and vibrant cultural events.

Hamilton
Home to Colgate University, Hamilton combines small-town charm with a lively arts scene, unique shops, and excellent dining.

Chittenango
A historic village known for its Wizard of Oz heritage and close proximity to Chittenango Falls State Park.

Canastota
A welcoming community rich in sports history and home to the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

Outdoor Adventures in Madison County

Madison County is an ideal destination for travelers who enjoy outdoor recreation and scenic landscapes.

Chittenango Falls State Park
One of New York’s most impressive natural attractions featuring hiking trails and dramatic waterfall views.

Delphi Falls County Park
This natural beauty features two cascading waterfalls nestled in a peaceful valley. Visitors can explore the challenging 1/3 mile Rim Trail, or take the ADA accessible lower falls trail for a scenic view of lower Delphi Falls.

Cazenovia Lake
A peaceful destination for boating, kayaking, fishing, and lakeside relaxation.

Erie Canalway Trail
A scenic biking and walking trail that follows the historic Erie Canal corridor.

Popular Tourist Attractions

International Boxing Hall of Fame – Canastota
A world-class sports museum honoring boxing legends and the sport’s rich history.

The Wild Animal Park – Chittenango
One of the largest animal parks in New York State featuring hundreds of animals and family-friendly exhibits.

Stone Quarry Hill Art Park – Cazenovia
A unique outdoor sculpture park combining contemporary art with scenic nature trails.

All Things Oz Museum – Chittenango
Explore the birthplace of the author L. Frank Baum who created the magical land of Oz.

Oneida Community Mansion House
A National Historic Landmark, the Mansion House invites you to explore, relax, and experience history firsthand.

Gerrit Smith Estate National Historic Landmark - Peterboro
A National Park Service Network to Freedom Underground Railroad site, a Heritage NY Underground Railroad site, and a Madison County NY Freedom Trail site.

Festivals & Events in Madison County

Madison County hosts a variety of festivals and community events throughout the year.

Oz-Stravaganza Festival – Chittenango
One of the largest Wizard of Oz themed celebrations in the country.

Lavender Festival - Cazenovia
Celebrate what Farmstead 1868 cherishes most—our love for farming, family, art, home, and all things made by hand.

Madison-Bouckville Antique Week - Bouckville
New York’s largest antiques & collectibles show

Local Food, Breweries & Farm Experiences

Madison County’s agricultural heritage is reflected in its local food scene, craft beverages, and farmers markets.

Visitors will discover:

●      farm breweries featuring locally grown ingredients

●      maple syrup producers and seasonal sugarhouses

●      family farms and farm-to-table experiences

●      farmers markets offering fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan foods

These local flavors provide a delicious way to experience the region’s rural traditions and hospitality.

Scenic Drives in Madison County

Madison County’s countryside offers beautiful drives filled with rolling hills, farmland, and picturesque villages.

Cazenovia Lake Scenic Drive
A peaceful drive around the lake featuring scenic views and historic homes.

Scenic Route 20
Rolling hills, red barns, and open farmland create some of the most scenic rural landscapes in Upstate New York.

Plan Your Visit to Madison County, New York

Planning a trip to Madison County is easy thanks to its convenient location in Central New York.

Best Time to Visit
Madison County offers year-round attractions. Summer brings festivals and lakeside recreation, fall features spectacular foliage, winter offers peaceful landscapes, and spring highlights waterfalls and outdoor exploration.

Getting Here
Madison County is located:

●      30 minutes from Syracuse

●      2 hours from Rochester

●      3.5 hours from Toronto

●      about 4 hours from New York City

Where to Stay
Visitors will find a range of accommodations including historic inns, bed-and-breakfasts, lakeside lodging, boutique hotels, and countryside vacation rentals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Madison County, NY

Where is Madison County NY located?
Madison County is located in the heart of Central New York between the cities of Syracuse and Utica.

What is Madison County known for?
The county is known for Chittenango Falls State Park, Cazenovia Lake, the International Boxing Hall of Fame, and the Oz-Stravaganza Festival.

When is the best time to visit Madison County?
Madison County is beautiful year-round, with summer festivals, fall foliage, winter recreation, and spring outdoor adventures.

What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Madison County?
Visitors enjoy hiking, waterfalls, boating, kayaking, fishing, biking, and scenic countryside drives.