Madison blends outdoor recreation with deep agricultural roots
Beyond Madison, Florida's historic downtown, are rolling hills occupied by fields and grazing livestock. "It's a rural, farming community with horses and cattle," says Preston Miller, a resident and experienced real estate agent with Southern Land & Homes. "Madison has a quaint, historic downtown area with cobblestone bricks. There are great restaurants and antique shops." A steam-powered motor is on display off Range Avenue, which pays tribute to the town's history in cotton and tobacco farming. Madison is also a definitive outdoor recreational hub; state parks are nearby, while county trails are inside the community. The area is also the seat of Madison County, named in honor of the fourth U.S. President.
Parks, state forest and golfing support outdoor fun
Four Freedoms Park, located downtown, displays a monument honoring a World War 2 hero and Madison resident. Bicyclists can hop on one of two trailheads at the park. Madison County 100 Mile Loop extends around the region. The Four Freedoms Trail, popular with horseback riders, leads to the Georgia border. Madison RV Golf and Country Club features a 9-hole course and an on-site resort for mobile campers. "Madison has a lot of outdoor recreation and equestrian activities. There's Madison Blue Spring State Park," Miller says. The state park's main attraction is a cold and crystal-clear swimming hole. Visitors can also go snorkeling in the underwater cavern or take a boat to explore the Withlacoochee River. The waterway meets the Suwannee River about 17 miles away, near Suwannee River State Park. Miller adds that crappies, redfish, brim and bass are in the local waterways. "And scalloping is a big deal here. You really don't need much equipment, just some gloves and a bucket," Miller says. Twin Rivers State Forest, about 13 miles away, offers another scenic route for equestrians.
Ranch homes and historic houses, in addition to weather risks
Miller says that Madison primarily has ranch-style houses and manufactured homes. There are also Minimal Traditional dwellings and various historic residences near downtown. Buyers looking to build a dream home or start a homestead can find lots available spanning from an acre to over 20 acres. Some of Madison's smaller dwellings can range in price from $60,000 to $150,000. Homes over 1,500 square feet typically cost around $165,000 to $400,000.
Miller says, "the area is more high and dry," meaning homes have a lower risk of flooding, though it is still possible. The area also has a history of hurricanes and tropical storms.
Madison has downtown events, eateries and storefronts
The downtown historic buildings house local shops, service providers and restaurants. Residents easily park along the town center's streets and walk to nearby businesses. Others flock here for Madison County's Down Home Days festival and parade in April. More storefronts are throughout the community. Farmers Cooperative, Inc. and Tractor Supply Co. serve the area's agricultural needs. Popular dining stops include O'Neal's Country Buffet and Grumpy's Diner on Main.
Public and charter schools provide options to learners
Madison County Central accepts kindergarteners to eighth graders; the K-8 school has a C-minus rating on Niche. Madison County High receives a B-plus. Local children may also enroll in the charter schools offered by the Madison County School District. Madison Creative Arts Academy has a B rating while James Madison Preparatory Charter High is rated a B-plus. Graduating high school seniors may attend the local public institution, North Florida College.
A historic church, a local hospital and nearby travel routes
The community is home to several houses of worship. St. Mary's Episcopal Church dates back to the mid-1800s. Madison County Memorial Hospital provides general care and emergency room services. The Madison Shuttle, operated by Big Bend Transit, runs a public route for seven hours every other weekday; most locals travel by car. The Florida-Georgia border awaits an estimated 10-mile drive to the north. Interstate 10 leads to Downtown Tallahassee in about 50 miles. Miller notes that locals often visit the Florida Gulf community of Steinhatchee, which is roughly 65 miles away.
Written By
Ashley Kennedy
