Explore the Outdoors in Madison and Perry
With beautiful views of Lake Erie, entertainment in a historical venue and wineries galore, Madison and Perry, Ohio, have much to offer any visitor.
Relax and unwind at one of 30-plus wineries in the Grand River Valley. Known as Ohio’s Wine Country, Grand River Valley sits 5 miles from the Lake Erie shore and produces 50 percent of grapes grown in Ohio, thanks to fertile soil and the region’s micro-climate that creates the perfect environment for grape production. When visiting the Grand River Valley, the closest places to stay and eat are in Madison, Ohio. Eight of the wineries and vineyards in this region are also in Madison, each with something special to offer including stunning natural views. Travel to Europe without a passport while tasting the Italian wines and Italian-inspired dishes at Baci Winery or sipping on a European varietal or craft beer set to live music at Cask 307. Explore 175 acres of vineyards at Debonné Vineyards, the largest estate winery in Ohio. Grand River Cellars offers a vast dining menu to pair with a glass of wine — check the events calendar for their Signature Wine Pairings in the Wine Cellar. Delight in panoramic views at Laurentia Vineyard and Winery while enjoying estate wines served with locally inspired food, then take a break under the pavilion at Maple Ridge Vineyard. Stonegait Winery offers wine flights so you can sample more of their expansive wine list. Pack a picnic to enjoy at Silver Crest Cellars and pair it with a dry red wine, the winery’s specialty. There are also many upcoming winery events to attend at Grand River Valley wineries to include in your visit.
When you’re visiting our Ohio wineries, there’s plenty to do while staying nearby. Walk along sandy and cobble beaches of the Lake Erie shoreline and take in the 40-foot-high beach bluffs at the Lake Erie Bluffs in Perry. Hike through wetlands, meadows and undeveloped lakefront areas to the beach, named one of the 25 best hikes to beaches in the U.S. by Outside Magazine. Once you’re there, fishing, birding and kayaking opportunities await. Take in a stunning sunrise or sunset view at the coastal observation tower. This 50-foot tower has multiple viewing platforms and a top deck with 360-degree views, providing unparalleled sights of the lake and surrounding areas, plus opportunities for spotting bald eagles. Host an unforgettable event at the reservable shelter, complete with parking, restrooms, gravel trails to scenic overlooks and access to a natural beach.
Nestled in the woods just minutes from the lakeshore, the historic Rabbit Run Theater in Madison provides entertainment for theater enthusiasts of all ages. Originally a charming 19th century horse barn, Rabbit Run was converted into a theater by the Klump family in 1946 with the removal of horse stalls and addition of two icehouses acting as the box office and green room that are still in use today. Many well-known actors have graced the stage, including Marge Redmond, Hume Cronyn, Jessica Tandy and Jim Backus. Today, this historic barn theater is run by the Rabbit Run Community Arts Association and offers opportunities to take in a performance or participate in classes on dance, music and visual arts. The summer season is the most popular, complete with musicals, plays, a youth production and more.
For more beautiful views of the Lake Erie shore, tee up for a game of golf at Madison Country Club. This 18-hole course, nicknamed “The Hidden Jewel on Lake Erie,” is known for its elegant landscaping based on a design from Ohio course architect Sandy Alves, complete with his signature features of narrow fairways and demanding water shots. Take lessons from a golf professional or join a golf league. The club also hosts corporate tournaments, fundraising events and groups of all sizes for your event needs, including tournament setup, scoring, special events and contests, full-service catering and more.