Nestled against the shoreline of Connecticut's Long Island Sound, and just a 30-minute drive from New Haven, Madison offers a postcard-perfect example of New England picturesque. From days spent shopping at the independent stores and eateries in the town's charming downtown to relaxing along the unspoiled coastline at Hammonasset Beach State Park, ample activities and attractions allow travelers to explore at their own pace. If you're planning to stay a while, Madison vacation rentals are the perfect way to stay close to the action, offering a relaxed base for your getaway, whether traveling with family, friends or both.
Do you want to find things to do during your stay? Although it can be tempting to stay in your comfortable vacation rental, you'll want to experience everything that makes Madison a fun place to get away. Here are some of the most popular attractions to see, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
Indoors or outside, Madison offers a quintessential New England experience. The town's quaint downtown features independent dining spots and boutique stores selling handcrafted bird boxes, not to mention an old-fashioned movie theater and a world-famous bookseller. Travelers keen to soak up more of the same can explore nearby New Haven, while those who prefer natural surroundings can find their perfect spot on the sand along the 2 miles of beachfront at Hammonasset Beach State Park. Over the summer, free events such as S'mores on the Shore movie nights and Wednesday-night concerts are a lovely way to end the day.
Madison weather is fairly typical of New England. Daytime temperatures over the summer months of July and August can soar toward 90 degrees, although breezes floating in from Long Island Sound can prevent the stuffy air of further inland. Despite the appeal of spending sun-drenched summers in Madison vacation rentals, there's little debate that the best time to visit anywhere in New England is during fall. Brilliant colors start to turn the foliage into a dazzling display of red, orange and yellow - and the daytime temperatures are still plenty warm enough to get outside and enjoy the show.
The appeal of the unspoiled sandy beach at Hammonasset Beach State Park can't be understated but travelers willing to travel a little further afield will find numerous natural delights on the menu. The East River Wildlife Area, located at the edge of Madison's western border is home to all manner of creatures, including American oystercatchers and majestic great blue herons, making it the perfect spot for wildlife watching and photography. To the northeast of the town, the 16,000-acre Cockaponset State Forest offers hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking for much of the year, and cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in winter.
The nearest airport is in New Haven, CT (HVN-Tweed - New Haven Regional), located 16.5 mi (26.5 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you could book a flight to New London, CT (GON-Groton - New London), which is 27.6 mi (44.4 km) away.
Whatever you're seeking in a vacation, you'll find a rental in or around Madison that fits you like a glove. These are some of our favorites:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Madison vacation rental for you.
If you've been busier than an ant in a picnic basket, you deserve to escape for a couple of glorious days. Leave work early on Friday and live it up at one of these weekend getaways in or near Madison:
Studio apartments are a simple yet stylish option, ideally suited for traveling sweethearts or solo stays. Spend your days getting acquainted with your surroundings and your nights chilling out in your comfy hideaway. These vacation rentals in or near Madison are sure to please:
Whether you're looking for a small apartment for you and a friend or a villa big enough for the whole family, there's no shortage of short-term rentals in and around Madison. These retreats make a comfortable base for a quick trip:
Whether spent in a cabin, a cottage or a condo, a romantic weekend getaway is an excellent way to add some fire to your relationship. Whisk your sweetheart away for a couple of days at one of these top escapes in or near Madison:
Big groups mean gigantic fun. They also mean finding someplace that'll comfortably fit your whole gang. Check out our large group vacation rentals in or around Madison and get everyone together under the same roof:
Nothing says fun and frivolity like a pool does. Dig out your inflatable flamingo and browse these rental houses in or near Madison that come with this must-have amenity:
Curious what the weather is like in Madison? It has a humid subtropical climate, with average summertime temperatures ranging from 65 ºF to 80 ºF. If you're seeking a little more inspiration on places to stay in this exciting destination, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to scroll through our entire range of Madison vacation rentals.
Whether your perfect escape is high in the hills or by the beach, you'll have so much more fun if you share it with those closest to you. Choose one of these large family vacation rentals in or near Madison and bring the whole crew:
When you want to explore your surroundings, there are plenty of family-friendly attractions nearby to keep everyone happy. Lighthouse Point Carousel, Connecticut Children's Museum and Shepaug Eagle Observation Area should be top of your agenda.
Crackers, chocolate, marshmallows and a campfire are the four ingredients you need to make a tasty snack and epic vacation memories. If you love the sound of huddling around a fire pit nibbling on s'mores, look into these retreats in or around Madison: