Explore the Madera Wine Trail to tour and sample some of the state's finest wines. During the late 1800s, settlers planted grapes to make wine in Madera, making the county one of the earliest wine producing regions in California. Grab a wine trail map and take a free tour of the many vineyards such as Agajanian Vineyards, Chateau Lasgoity, Ficklin Vineyards and more. Wine tastings and other events are also available. Purchase passport wine glasses from any of the participating wineries to sample current and vintage wines while indulging in food pairings and enjoying some local art shows and live music along the way. As of February 2011, passport wine glass fees range from $20 to $25 each.
Experience Madera's culture and heritage by visiting some of the museums and art exhibits in the county. Places of interest include Inanna's Gift Studio and Gallery, Children's Museum of the Sierras, Quady Winery Exhibits and Madera County Historical Society Museum. Quady Winery hosts various exhibits including the Annual Revillier Art Exhibition in mid-February. View works of local artists including contemporary fine art, sculptures and photography as you sample some wines and and offerings of chocolates and other sweets. Tickets cost $20 to $25, as of February 2011.
Attend budget-friendly events while you're in the area including the Sierra Arts Trail Yosemite Foothills Open Studio Tour, Coarsegold Peddlers Fair and Indian Fair Days. The Sierra Art Trails Open Studio Tour displays art works and crafts in the making. Watch local artists make art in the process using a wide range of media such as sculpture, painting, jewelry, photography, woodcarving, glass, ceramics and more. This annual event takes place in the beginning of October and features a week-long free preview exhibit. The admission fee is $18, as of February 2011, which includes a tour catalog that lists artists and viewing locations.
Visit the Yosemite National Park, about two hours away from Madera, for a wide array of recreation. Enjoy hiking, rock climbing, backpacking, biking, fishing, swimming and rafting in the wilderness park's 1,200 square miles. View natural sights like waterfalls, ancient giant sequoias, meadows and deep valleys, all for an entrance fee of just $20 per car.
Take advantage of lodging offers and promotions during your budget vacation to Madera. Check the Madera Chamber of Commerce website for special hotels and motels discounts. Inquire about special discounts that you may qualify for; the Springhill Suites Madera has special rates for AAA and CAA members, government and military personnel and seniors.
