Discover One of the "Most Beautiful Towns in the World"
The small town of Madison, Georgia, is not just one of the most beautiful places in America, it has been recognized as one of the most beautiful towns to visit in the world. Located just an hour east of Atlanta, Madison is an easy getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city to experience a town full of culture, charm and enchantment.
You don’t have to take our word for it though; Madison has been receiving accolades since 1864 when it was deemed the “most cultured and aristocratic town on the stagecoach route from Charleston to New Orleans” in the Guide to Georgia.
Keep reading to see why Southern Living, Budget Travel, Architectural Digest and more top publications recommend Madison, Georgia, as one of the most beautiful destinations to visit in the world!
Southern Living's "28 Best Small Towns In Georgia For A Quaint Escape"
“Dreamy Madison has been doubling as a movie and TV set since the 70s. Remember it from My Cousin Vinny, Goosebumps, or Hidden Figures?”
Architectural Digest's "The 55 Most Beautiful Small Towns in America"
“When you think of a quaint Southern town with magnolia trees and antebellum homes, Madison—60 miles east of Atlanta—is just that. One of Georgia’s largest historic districts lies in Madison.”
NCTravelGuides’ “120 Most Picturesque Small Towns in America”
The NCTravelGuides team conducted an extensive study to identify the 120 most picturesque small towns in America that are absolute must-visit destinations this summer. Their research analyzed 500 small towns, evaluating them across several key criteria, including search trends, popularity with photographers, and popularity for photography with the general public. Here’s what they had to say about Madison, which made the list:
“Madison, located in the heart of Georgia, is home to charming restaurants, picturesque quaint streets, and great parks. From pretty antebellum houses to gorgeous gardens, you can find beautiful places in the historic downtown area of the town. The impressive buildings that you can find in Madison, including the Morgan County Courthouse, make the town a must-visit for those that like seeing beautiful architecture.”
The Travel's "14 Most Beautiful Towns in America"
“Madison boasts beautifully oak-lined streets, some of the most ancient National Historic Districts, incredible restaurants, colorful shops, and many historic sites for history buffs to explore. The Southern charm in this town is second to none.”
World Atlas’s “2024's 7 Most Beautiful Small Towns In Georgia”
“Madison, Georgia, is known for its storybook homes, colorful flowers, and adorable shopping. History buffs won’t want to miss the Morgan County Historical Society and Heritage Hall, where “you’ll find period furnishings and architecture. You can also visit the Apalachee Schoolhouse, which was built in 1911 and still has most of its original materials. If you love to eat, check out Benny Paul’s Soul Food, where you’ll find the best baby back ribs, fried chicken, and cornbread in town. Or enjoy the sizzling steaks and atmosphere at the Madison Chophouse Grille.
Madison is only an hour’s drive from both Atlanta and Augusta, so it’s a great small-town stop if you’re visiting the larger metropolitan areas in the state.”
Only In Your State's "Take This Roadtrip through Georgia's Most Picturesque Small Towns for an Unforgettable Experience"
“When we talk about picturesque small towns, Madison, Georgia always comes to mind. It’s deserving to say the least, especially with all the luminous Antebellum architecture around every corner. Enjoy the renowned restaurants, unique boutiques, and dazzling attractions of one of the most charming small towns in Georgia.”
Budget Travel's "World's 16 Most Picturesque Villages"
“Norman Rockwell meets Gone with the Wind in Madison, Georgia. Legend has it that General Sherman refused to burn down the town during his March to the Sea because it was so pretty. (The more likely reason was that Madison was home to a pro-Union mayor, but no one who’s been there questions the ‘too beautiful’ description.) Restored antebellum homes still stand alongside fragrant gardens and plenty of independent boutiques, restaurants, and inns. The small village is also known for its museums, covering fine art, history, and African American heritage.”
Style Blueprint's "Small Towns We Love: 48 Hours in Madison, GA"
“The picturesque town of Madison, Georgia, looks like it comes straight out of a movie. From where to eat, stay, shop — and one exceptional way to unwind — here’s how to spend 48 hours in this charming Southern city!
Some small towns seem right out of a movie set, with a quaint downtown lined with shops and restaurants, historic architecture, and best of all, a slower pace to take it all in. The picturesque town of Madison, Georgia — about an hour from Atlanta and close to Lake Oconee — offers all this and more. (And you may actually recognize it from film and TV shows such as Hidden Figures, The Vampire Diaries, Goosebumps, and Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol II.) One night in Madison could provide a nice dose of all they have to offer, but to really unwind, plan on two. Here’s a suggested itinerary.”
Ready to plan your trip to Madison, GA?
You can browse itineraries for all interests, including but not limited to arts & culture, outdoor recreation, history & heritage, or even discover favorite movie sites on the film tour. Madison is the perfect day trip, but an even better weekend getaway.
Sojourn in the heart of the town at a boutique hotel, a cozy bed and breakfast in the historic district, or check out the top-rated hotels convenient to I-20 with our full listing of places to stay.