Visiting Madera

Welcome to Madera: The Heart of California. Strategically located along Highway 99 in the San Joaquin Valley, Madera blends small-town warmth with access to iconic outdoor destinations. Whether you're passing through or staying a few days, this is a place where local festivals, aviation history, and natural beauty intersect.

Discover Madera

• Madera Wine Trail – Taste the region in every sip. Sample local varietals and meet passionate vintners making waves for Madera County. Visit themaderawinetrail.com for wineries and events.
• Madera County Museum & Historic Courthouse – Located in the old courthouse building in Courthouse Park, the museum tells the story of Madera’s agricultural roots and pioneer heritage.
• Lions Town & Country Park – A community gathering place with walking paths, open green space, playgrounds, and live events like Movies in the Park.
• Historic Downtown Madera – Shop local, dine local, catch seasonal events like the Christmas Parade of Lights, and soak up small-town charm.

Events That Define Madera

• Pomegranate, Fruit & Nut Festival – A fall celebration of Madera’s agricultural heritage featuring live music, food vendors, crafts, and family fun.
• Christmas Parade of Lights – Holiday spirit comes alive downtown with illuminated floats, marching bands, and local groups.
• Old Timers Day Parade & Celebration – A long-standing community tradition featuring a parade and festival in Courthouse Park.
• Madera District Fair – A Central Valley staple every September: concert stages, carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, and local food.
• Madera Drive-In Theatre – One of the few remaining drive-in theaters in California. Catch first-run films under the stars at its location on E. Lincoln Avenue.
• Madera Speedway – High-octane short-track racing for the whole family. From weekly events to marquee races, this track has been a local legend for decades.
• Gathering of Warbirds Reunion & Classic Car Show – Held at Madera Municipal Airport, this event showcases vintage warbirds in flight, static displays, and a classic car show. In past years, attendees have seen P-51 Mustangs, P-47 Thunderbolts, and more — a true celebration of aviation history and community pride.

Explore Nature & Outdoor Highlights

• Yosemite National Park – Just 90 minutes northeast via Highway 41. Majestic cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias await.
• Bass Lake – A beautiful mountain lake destination for boating, fishing, swimming, and scenic relaxation.
• Millerton Lake State Recreation Area – A short drive east opens up opportunities for boating, picnicking, camping, and lakeside escapes.
• Nelder Grove – In western Madera County lies this grove of giant sequoias. Though access is rugged, the grove remains one of the hidden gems of the Sierra.
• Wassama Round House State Historic Park – Located in the Sierra foothills of Madera County, this restored roundhouse serves as a cultural heritage site with occasional demonstrations and events.

Where to Stay & Dine

Lodging is concentrated near major roads like Highway 99 and Cleveland Avenue, giving you a comfortable base with convenient access to all local attractions. Options include national chains, locally-owned motels, and boutique inns.

Dining is eclectic and regionally flavored — from taquerias and family-run diners to wine-country restaurants. For updated listings, visit Visit Madera County.

Plan Your Visit

Whether it’s your first time or a return trip, Madera offers more than just a stopover. It’s a place of community and connection — watch warbirds soar, enjoy small-town festivals, or use Madera as your launch to the Sierra. We hope your time here gives you reasons to come back.

For event calendars, maps, and visitor assistance, visit Visit Madera County or stop by the Madera County Visitor Center at 40307 Highway 41, Oakhurst, CA.