Madison County
A Move to Madison is Only Natural
In Madison County, nature takes center stage. Bordered by three rivers, access to outdoor activities like swimming, snorkeling and paddling is unmatched. People travel from all over the country to visit the natural wonders of the county, like the blue springs in Madison, Florida. The area has a rich cultural history, with countless historic landmarks being preserved across the region. Take the time to learn about Madison’s past, build part of Madison’s future through an innovative career, or dive into the abundance of natural resources the region has to offer.
- Culture & History
- Outdoor Recreation
- Education
Preserved Local Gems
Madison County is rich in historical markers that local government and community members have worked hard to preserve. The Four Freedoms Monument resides in the town of Madison and represents the four freedoms that President Franklin D. Roosevelt stated in one of his many famous speeches: freedom of speech and expression, freedom of worship, freedom from want and freedom from fear. In addition to monuments, there are also many examples of historic architecture. St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, completed in 1881 features beautiful stained-glass windows and is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Apart from the church, Downtown Madison is home to several houses and mansions that are over 100 years old.
Inland Adventures
Manatee County is not the only place to spot manatees. Madison Blue Springs State Park is home to more than 500 manatees. Voted the No. 1 swimming hole in the nation, this state park is the perfect location to take a dip in the warm spring water, enjoy the tranquil weather in Madison or go hiking along the nearby Withlacoochee River. A little further down the river, the Four Freedoms Trail is a 12-mile, paved and multi-use trail. People travel from around the county for nice shady walks, biking and horseback riding. For camping enthusiasts, Ragan’s Campground & Waterpark provides fun for the entire family. The park boats pools, waterslides, playgrounds and a catch-and-release fishing pond.
A Personalized Approach
Madison County is home to a diverse range of educational options for all ages. The Madison Creative Arts Academy has been an A-rated school for the last four years by the state of Florida. Students can enjoy a variety of academic subjects ranging from engineering to jazz and graphic design, allowing them to truly explore their interests. For post-secondary education, the region is home to North Florida College, a small college that prioritizes individualized and hands-on educational options for students.