Central Business District Walking Tour

Central Business District Walking Tour

Madison, Indiana 47250, United States

Created By: Visit Madison, Inc.

Tour Information

While the riverfront was known for its industry and factories, the inner part of Madison held shops and businesses. They have changed hands many times over the years and many buildings are used for very different purposes now. Despite this, the buildings still retain their historical significance and beauty today. Madison has always had the idea of “shopping local” and continues this tradition. Look around and see all the different businesses that serve both locals and tourists alike.

Walking Tour Developed by: The Cornerstone Society Inc. Established 1988


Tour Map

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What You'll See on the Tour

Many small businesses and shops line Main Street. You can find anything from clothing to a sweet treat. Businesses may change, but the facade of these historical buildings have remained nearly the same since their construction.
322 West St. c. 1865 This is Madison’s oldest (standalone) tavern in town since its opening in 1867. It earned the name of Shipley’s in the 1940s when the Shipley family purchased it. The business has changed hands many times since then... Read more
The Madison Courier was established in 1837 and was family owned from 1849 to 2020. It is the second oldest newspaper in Indiana and is still published today.
301 West St. Despite not being a feedmill anymore, the equipment for processing feed remains. Look to the roof of the building to see various original machinery. It was once known as Irwin’s and then Lamson’s.
100 E. Second St. c. 1935 This building formerly housed the Irwin Farmer’s Store and Irwin Motor Co. It was a Hudson automobile and Reo truck dealership. It still has its garage doors on the south side. It’s one of Madison’s only exam... Read more
Corner of Second St. & Mulberry St. The Madison Hotel was torn down by the 1940’s. It was also known as the Jefferson Hotel. It is now a large parking lot.
301 Mulberry St. c. 1834 This is Madison’s oldest and longest running hotel and tavern. The tavern portion was originally on the second floor while the lobby and parlor area were on the first floor. The building retains its ornate feature... Read more
316 Mulberry St. c. 1830 The bakery was run by the Hentz Family from 1912 to 1980. It was an important staple to downtown Madison. Front counter with baked goods pictured on the back.  On the side of the building is a large mural painted i... Read more
208 E. Second St. It was a Greyhound Bus Station and a White Star Bus Station. It now houses the Thomas Family Winery.

 

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