Madeira has merited quite a few “Best ofs” throughout the years from Business Week, Cincy Magazine and US News and World Report. The community has many spirited citizens who work diligently to preserve a friendly neighborhood setting. One of the prime attractions to this neighborhood is the wide choice in housing including ranch styles, cape cods, colonials, contemporaries as well as newly constructed homes and lifestyle condominiums. The business district is a draw for shopping, coffee breaks and dining. Madeira is the perfect choice for those interested in the convenience of a suburban community that is located just 12 miles from Fountain Square in downtown Cincinnati.
A remaining link to the early history of this lovely little village is the railroad station which is the focal point of many activities. Daniel Bates originally arrived in the area in 1787 and purchased land in 1804. From 1788-1794, John Cleves Symmes surveyed and sold land in Hamilton Count including Madeira. In 1866 the railroad through Madeira was completed and the stop was called John Madeira after the local landowner and treasurer of the railroad.
There are excellent shopping facilities in Madeira and one need not leave the village for ordinary needs. There are branches of several major banks and many fine restaurants and local shops in the community. Also, five minutes away is Kenwood Towne Centre and Sycamore Plaza. Besides branches of Cincinnati’s three largest department stores, Nordstrom’s, Macy’s and Dilliard’s, there are 100+ smaller shops and restaurants in these malls.
There are three parks located in Madeira. Sellman Park features a baseball diamond and soccer field, playground, tennis courts, basketball courts along with a picnic grove. McDonald Commons Park is 17 acres and has baseball and soccer fields, playground area, tennis, batting cage,and a picnic shelter. The Nelle V. Hosbrook Bird Sanctuary is a great place to walk or hike with its two-acre wooded setting and trails. Madeira has an attractive membership swim club and the 36-hole, private Kenwood Country Club is a short drive away. There are several school playgrounds that accommodate an abundant outdoor sports program in season. Tennis may be enjoyed at many outdoor courts as well as the air-conditioned private Camargo Racquet Club. Madeira is known for its festive 4th of July parade and people line up their chairs early to get a good seat to watch. The community also offers several festivals along Miami Road in the heart of downtown Madeira throughout the year. Residents enjoy concerts in the park during warmer months.