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close up shot of a small basket of fresh grapes at a farmers market near Madison VA

3 Great Outdoor Activities You Can Drive to Near Madison, VA

Madison, VA, nestled in the heart of beautiful mountains and foothills, offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities. What better way to explore it all than by getting behind the wheel of a tough and rugged 2023 Ford Explorer, 2023 Ford Escape, or 2023 Ford Ranger with ample space for outdoor equipment, shopping, and the whole family? So hit the road and discover all the fun that awaits you outside. Image From Pixabay 1. Shop Local at the Madison County Farmers' Market The Madison County Farmers' Market in Hoover Park at 1110 Fairground Road in Madison is producer-only and one of the best markets for miles around. It's one of those lovely old-fashioned markets where everyone in town gathers on Saturdays to catch up and buy produce grown on farms in the area and homemade goods from local bakers who pick and prepare their wares just hours before the market, ensuring that they offer only the freshest goods. It's a vibrant market with beautiful views over the Blue Ridge Mountains, full of friendly and helpful vendors who always have time for a chat. There's free parking and a safe area where your little ones can run around and play while you browse for fruits, veggies, specialty meats, and freshly baked goodies. Best of all, the vendors even offer online orders for pick-up. more 2. Climb Old Rag Mountain to Admire the View Take Route 231 North to the Berry Hollow Parking area on Weakley Hollow Road, just over 14 miles away, to climb to the summit of Old Rag Mountain. It's a strenuous and long six to seven-hour hike, and while extremely rewarding, it's a physically demanding route that can be dangerous, so plan properly. Along the way, you will see rare and endangered plant life that can only thrive in this landscape of rugged granite boulders. Once you've reached the top of Old Rag Mountain, your efforts will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic 360-degree views that will leave you in awe. 3. Discover Nature in Shenandoah National Park Head 29 miles down the road to 22591 Spotswood Trail in Elkton to spend time in the breathtaking Shenandoah National Park, a vast 200,000-acre wilderness offering a wealth of natural beauty and animal life. Over 500 miles of trails, with 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail, wind past cascading waterfalls, through lush wooded valleys, and over sprawling fields covered in wildflowers. You can enjoy a short leisurely stroll through the woods, tackle one of the longer trails for a backcountry camping trip to secluded areas in the park, or saddle your horse and ride down 180 miles of rocky mountain trails. The park has over 90 mountain streams teeming with 40 fish species and 70 streams with brown, rainbow, and native brook trout, and your can pitch your tent at one of five campgrounds, each with unique features and amenities. Explore Madison's beautiful natural surroundings, appreciate the spectacular views, and buy from the farmers' market to support the hardworking local farmers, bakers, and makers. While driving around town, swing by Madison Ford today and take one of the brand-new SUVs for a test drive.

Up close shot of a delicious juicey thick burger with melted cheese and beautiful leafy greens on a sesame bun.

3 Great Spots With the Best Burgers in Driving Distance of Madison, VA

Living in Madison, VA, you are never far away from some excellent grub. Food from all corners of the globe can be easily found around town, however, even with all these choices, sometimes, nothing beats a delicious burger. Luckily, here in Madison, we have some of the best burgers in the state! Whether you're looking for a messy gut-buster or a high-end, gourmet burger, here are a few of our favorite places you should check out. Image obtained from Pexel Pig 'N Steak Everyone loves a good BBQ. There's something beautiful about tender, smokey, slow-cooked meats, and putting them in a burger is even better! It's this that makes Pig 'N Steak so special; their burgers are packed full of delicious, home-smoked meats. Located at 313 Washington Street, this place isn't just famous for its burgers, as there are also tons of great BBQ platters that are great for sharing with friends and family. Mad Local American Eatery Located at 218 North Main Street, Mad Local American Eatery is the place to go for all things American. The joint specializes in messy sandwiches and massive burgers, such as the Military Veteran; a huge burger made up of 3 beef patties topped with American cheese, pickles, salad, and mayo. On top of the excellent sandwiches and burgers, there are also some incredible sides and sharers, such as the hangover fries and popcorn shrimp. Mad Local American Eatery is situated in a quaint building at 218 North Main Street, and it often gets pretty busy. If you can't find a seat, then don't worry, as all the amazing food here is available for takeaway too! And, with the new stain-resistant ActiveX seats fitted as standard on the new Ford EcoSport, you can pull up somewhere nice to enjoy your burger without worrying about damaging your upholstery. Miranda's Restaurant If you're looking for great, local food, Miranda's Restaurant is easily one of the best in the area. Situated at 217 North Main Street, opposite Mad Local American Eatery, this unassuming, laid-back joint serves up a huge assortment of American classics such as Philly cheesesteak subs, country fried steak, fried catfish, and, of course, some absolutely incredible burgers. When it comes to great burgers, not many places in the state surpass the quality of these spots. From slow-cooked BBQ sandwiches at Pig 'N Steak to huge burgers at Mad Local American Eatery, there's something on this list for everyone! We'd love to hear your thoughts on these spots, so come visit us at Madison Ford after your food to let us know how it was while checking out our impressive selection of new and used cars.

Fresh made bread close up | Madison, VA

7 Favorite Local Bakeries Near Madison, VA

Nothing kick-starts the mind and body like the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked bread. The only thing better is tasting that first sip and biting into a lighter-than-air croissant. Similarly, there is nothing better to 'fill the corners' after dining out than a cake or pastry just out of the oven. Happily, there are several bakeries in the Madison, VA area to help you start or finish your day. Here's a shortlist featuring seven of the best. 1. Cake Krums Located inside The Green Giraffe on Wolftown-Hood Road in Madison, Cake Krums is a confectionary featuring cupcakes, pastries, and cookies. Enjoy a quick bite while browsing through the Giraffe's collection of knick-knacks and personalized t-shirts, or sit down for a soup, salad, coffee, or espresso. All baked goods are made on the premises daily. Cake Krums also bakes and delivers 'quarantine cakes' for friends or loved ones who must self-isolate. Let them know they're in your thoughts. 2. Missy Moodies Sweet Treats Named for the proprietor's granddaughter, Missy Moodies offers everything from cakes, pies, and confections to fresh bread, cinnamon rolls, and candy apples. Items are available in the store, on Caroline St in Orange, or by specialty order. more 3. Sandy's Sweet Treats On Celt Road in nearby Stanardsville, Sandy's specializes in custom orders for weddings, birthdays, and other special occasions. Her motto is, "If you can think of it, I can make it!" 4. Albemarle Baking Company Combining sweet treats and artisan breads, Albemarle is a strictly take-out shop on Main Street in Charlottesville. The bread menu rotates daily while pastries shift from croissants, muffins, and scones in the morning to freshly baked cookies in the afternoons. Albemarle also features a variety of delicious cakes and accepts custom orders for weddings and other events. 5. Heritage Bakery and Cafe Heritage is proud of "making Harrisonburg sweeter one pastry at a time." Featuring indoor and outdoor dining for patrons who'd prefer to sit rather than grab and go, the bakery on South Main offers a breakfast and lunch menu. The establishment also schedules intimate classes (1-2 people) in macaron making and cake decoration. Custom lessons can also be requested. 6. Anita's Decadent Delights Located in Bridgewater, Anita offers a full range of baked sweets, including muffins, cupcakes, cookies, brownies, pound and layer cakes, and breads, as well as a gluten-free menu. She accepts orders for weddings and events, too, but it's her donuts that are especially renowned throughout the Shenandoah Valley. 7. Krecek Kakes Another establishment with indoor and outdoor dining, Krecek Kakes of Gordonsville offers a full breakfast and luncheon menu of sandwiches, soups, and quiches to accompany its delectable desserts, as well as a full range of coffees and iced drinks. Try the house specialty Angel Konfections, with a portion of your purchase donated to a worthy cause. As you can see, there is no shortage of local bakeshops in the vicinity. With your tastebuds piqued and the rest of the day ahead, come into Madison Ford for a test drive. We can promise you one sweet ride.

Where to Find the Best Mexican Food Near Madison, VA

Get all the best flavors from south of the border right here in the Madison, VA area when you visit the restaurants we highlighted below. Each of them puts their own spin on this much-loved cuisine to deliver you some of the best Mexican food you can get anywhere. Try out any of the places from our list and we guarantee you'll walk away smiling and satisfied. more Where to Find the Best Mexican Food Near Madison, VA El Agave Delicious and authentic food is waiting for you right here in our neighborhood from the chefs at El Agave. Their nachos make the perfect start to your meal, with tortilla chips piled high and dressed with all the toppings you could ask for. Their shrimp fajitas is the perfect meal for anyone who likes seafood, with a sizzling plate of fillings to go with the tortillas they serve you. La Naranja Fresh Mexican and Tex-Mex food makes for some delicious eats when you stop in at La Naranja. One of the most popular types of tacos they have to choose from is their al pastor tacos. The contrast between the savory vertically roasted pork and the chunks of sweet pineapple makes for a flavor combination we absolutely adored. Their homemade tamales are also definitely worth checking out when you visit this spot. Los Tres Hermanitos A unique dining experience guided by the principle of maintaining a good relationship with their local community makes your visit to Los Tres Hermanitos a memorable one. Though they’re not your normal sit and serve restaurant, their food is made to order. We recommend their asada fries, with a cheesy mix of queso and mozzarella with lettuce, pico de gallo, sour cream, and your choice of meat. Follow it up with xhango, Mexican cheesecake chimichangas, for dessert! La Chiapaneca Winner of the “2020 Best Food Truck Award” in the Best of Your Hometown Culpepper Star Exponent, you already know the food at La Chiapaneca is going to be top notch. They won't fail to deliver on that promise no matter what dish you order here. Our go-to meal here is their carne asada tacos, but you can’t go wrong with anything on their menu.  If you are looking for great Mexican food with a hint of Salvadoran flavor, this is the place for you. My Avocado Mexican Grill with A Mediterranean Twist My Avocado Mexican Grill with a Mediterranean Twist is a fast casual restaurant that offers a twist to your usual Mexican cuisine with the addition of Mediterranean food and a vegetable and smoothie option. You can also build your own burrito or burrito bowl to get a meal of your own creation, choosing from their list of proteins and toppings to create the flavor you want. Save room for dessert, because the pastries are made fresh daily from all natural ingredients and will delight your sweet tooth. Great food and exceptional service are both waiting for you at these top-notch Mexican restaurants. For a great deal on a new or pre-owned vehicle and that same standard of exceptional service, come to our dealership. Visit us today at Madison Ford, where we treat all of our customers like they're a part of the family!

7 Favorite Lunch Places in Madison, VA

There are so many great places to grab lunch that it can be difficult to decide where to eat. Let's take a look at some of the best lunch places in Madison, VA. more 7 Favorite Lunch Places in Madison, VA 1. Mad Local American Eatery Mad Local American Eatery, located at 218 N Main St, Madison, VA, is an all-American style restaurant and has quickly become one of the most popular lunch spots in Madison. The menu is simple, which makes it quick to choose what you want during the lunch rush. They specialize in a little bit of everything from cheeseburgers to seafood, and they have great sides to choose from. With their vegetarian options, everyone can enjoy something off the menu. 2. Miranda’s Restaurant At 217 N. Main Street, you'll find Miranda’s Restaurant, a quaint little cafe with home like feel, a modest bar, and a cozy outdoor seating area that is both dog friendly and perfect for relaxing. The menu will appeal to your pallet with your choice of American or Italian cuisine, as well as vegetarian and gluten free options. If you are looking for a nice place to take your family that offers comfort food that will make you think you are eating a home cooked meal, Miranda’s Restaurant is exactly where you want to be. 3. The Bavarian Chef If you prefer something a little different from the standard soup-and-sandwich lunch spot, head to 5102 S. Seminole Trail. The Bavarian Chef features classic German and European fare such as weiner schnitzel, Bavarian sausage, and forelle müllerin’. Known for their hearty meal options and family style sides, you are guaranteed to leave with a full stomach. If you like appetizers, try the Hungarian gulaschsuppe, cream of wild mushroom soup or oompa shrimp, which is lager battered with sweet & spicy sauce. 4. Yoder’s Country Market 2105 S. Seminole Trail is home to Yoder’s Country Market, a local market spot known for selling locally grown meats and produce with a café that serves breakfast and lunch. While you shop, grab a freshly made sandwich, salad, or smoothie, all made from fresh daily from scratch. Don't miss the Sandwich of the Week when you visit, which will be a sandwich not offered regular menu. 5. Pig N Steak Pig N Steak at 313 Washington St. is a favorite lunch spot for locals because of their fast service and fair prices, but it is their food that really draws the crowds. Don’t let their absence on menu mislead you, steak options are available, you just have to ask your server. Their barbecue is hickory smoked straight off the pit, it keeps people coming back for more. Don't miss it! 6. Giovanni’s Italian Eatery Giovanni’s Italian Eatery is located at 2679 S. Seminole Trail. This restaurant features a simple yet satisfying menu that serves authentic Italian food. Try one of their famous strombolis or gourmet pizzas for lunch. Follow up with an Italian cannoli or chocolate mousse for dessert. 7. Vintage Restaurant The Vintage Restaurant in The Inn at Willow Grove is an upscale restaurant that resides at 14079 Plantation Way in Orange, VA right outside of Madison. This elegant eatery is housed inside a three-story 18 th century plantation house with a beautiful patio option that makes dining a relaxing pleasure. While it's easy to get lost in the stunning decor, it is the food that really shines. Their Sunday brunch menu features dishes like steak and eggs benedict, jumbo shrimp and grits with andouille sausage, and crushed avocado toast along with fresh salads, and delicious desserts. While you're in the area, you might like to take a look at the well-stocked inventory of vehicles at Madison Ford. They are ready and willing to help you get into the vehicle of your dreams.

Cheeseburgers, fries, drink, and ketchup on a table

Where to Find the Best Burgers in and Around Madison, VA

Madison, VA has been a crossroads of history for over 11,000 years. Early settlers of the town in the 18th century included English, German, Scottish, and Irish families, and many descendants of these families still live in Madison today. For those who love the outdoors, Madison is a wonderful place to visit due to its beautiful mountains and foothills. For those who are foodies, we have also created a list of where to find the best burgers in and around the town! more Where to Find the Best Burgers in and Around Madison, VA 1. Graze to Griddle Graze to Griddle is located in the nearby town of Culpeper and launched in the winter of 2019. The restaurant serves 100% grass-fed beef burgers as well as fries, cheese curds, and drinks. Some of Graze to Griddle's available burgers include an Original "Graze" Burger, a Chicken Burger, and a Chorizo Sausage Burger. The restaurant also has an option where you can build your own burger with a mix of complementary and/or premium toppings. 2. Tastee-Freez Tastee-Freez is a fast-food restaurant that is located directly in Madison. The restaurant serves burgers, soft-serve ice cream, sundaes, freezees, shakes, floats, hot dogs, and sandwiches. Some of Tastee-Freez's available burgers include a Big Tee Burger, a Big Country Burger, a Tastee Cheeseburger, and a Tastee Burger. If you're looking to pair your burger with something sweet, consider ordering the restaurant's banana split! 3. The Wolf's Fixins Barbecue The Wolf's Fixins Barbecue is located in the town of Ruckersville and is a locally owned, independent barbecue restaurant. The restaurant is open every day except for Tuesdays and sells a variety of starters, barbecue, and burgers. Available burgers include the BYO Wolf Burger, where you can choose what toppings you would like to add on top of your hamburger patty and what side you would like, and the Smokehouse Burger. 4. Jackleg Sandwich Despite its name, Jackleg Sandwich sells a lot more than just sandwiches! Jackleg Sandwich is located in Culpeper and serves various appetizers, pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, salads, sides, and desserts. All of the restaurant's burgers are served with a side of potato chips or a side salad. Available burgers include the OG, the Appalachian, the Steakhouse, and the El Paso, which you can choose to order as a single or double. 5. Mad Local American Eatery Mad Local American Eatery is located in Madison and is an American eatery serving local beef, chicken, pork, seafood, and produce. The restaurant is veteran-owned and operated and offers the option to order online. Mad Local American Eatery serves appetizers, salads, burgers, sandwiches, sides, and drinks. If you're looking for something spicy, consider trying the restaurant's Bringing the Rain burger, which is topped with 50-Caliber hot sauce! Once you've found the perfect burger you've been craving and your stomach is full and happy, it is a great time to search for the new car you've been wanting. Stop by Madison Ford today and browse our selection of Fords! We are devoted to serving our customers to the best of our ability and offer only the highest quality cars.

Scoops of ice cream

5 Fantastic Spots for Ice Cream Near Madison, VA

When you live in a place like Madison, VA, there are certain things that you should never be without. One of those is ice cream! It is the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day. Whether you are looking for chocolate, vanilla, or fruity flavors, Madison has some delicious options that will leave you wanting more! If you are in town and want to take advantage of these yummy spots then check out the following list. more 5 Fantastic Spots for Ice Cream Near Madison, VA 2. Dairy Queen Dairy Queen is the perfect place to go when you're craving something sweet. They have all your favorite flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. But they also have some unique flavors that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. One of their newest flavors is called “Cookie Dough Blizzard,” which tastes just like cookie dough! It's so good you'll want to lick the spoon! 2. Ben & Jerry's Ben & Jerry's is the place to go for all your favorite cones. They have over 20 flavors, with something for everyone! They have been around for decades, and they're still going strong. Ben & Jerry's make their own waffle cones and serve them up in cups or cones, sundaes, shakes, malts, and more. Stop by today to try some of their famous flavors like Americone Dream or Cherry Garcia! 3. Grammie's Ice-Cream Grammie's has over 20 different flavors to choose from! You can't go wrong with their most popular flavor, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, try one of their more unique flavors like Maple Bacon or Coconut Lime Sorbet. Whether it's vanilla or chocolate chip, strawberry or mint-chocolate chip, their range is sure to please! Come on in and enjoy some delicious scoops that suit your mood best. 4. Moo Thru Moo Thru is one of the newest additions to our small town. They have plenty of flavors of cone and sorbet, including vegan options! Their cones are made fresh in front of you with any flavor combination you can imagine. And they also offer dairy-free soft serve so everyone can enjoy their delicious treats. 5. Flotzie's Soft Serve You don't have to go far for your next scoop of cream- just stop by one of their locations in Madison. They're open late every night so you can enjoy a cone after dinner or on your way home from work. And if you need something to wash it down with, they've got some great coffee options too! They have something for everyone, from the classic vanilla soft serve to the decadent chocolate soft serve with whipped cream. Their most popular flavor is probably the strawberry cheesecake soft serve topped with graham crackers and whipped cream. We hope that you have enjoyed this list of the best spots to treat your sweet tooth in Madison, VA. If you are looking for a new car, we also would love to help. Visit Madison Ford today and one of our sales representatives will be happy to show you some options on your next vehicle purchase.

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