Madison,
Madison is the capital city of Wisconsin and a vibrant hub for culture, education, and outdoor activities. It is known for its picturesque lakes, including Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, which offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and waterfront dining. The city is home to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, bringing a youthful energy and diverse range of academic and cultural events.
Madison also boasts a thriving food scene, with farmers markets, local breweries, and restaurants serving up a variety of cuisine.
Places to visit
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Downtown
morning:Start your day with a visit to the Wisconsin State Capitol building, marvel at its stunning architecture and learn about its history. Then grab a delicious breakfast at Marigold Kitchen, known for its farm-to-table fare.
afternoon:Explore the vibrant State Street, lined with unique shops and local boutiques. Visit the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art to admire its diverse art collection and enjoy lunch at Graze, offering a farm-to-table experience.
evening:Savor a delightful dinner at Heritage Tavern, known for its upscale Midwestern cuisine. After dinner, head to the Memorial Union Terrace to enjoy the beautiful sunset over Lake Mendota and experience a lively atmosphere for a night-out.
Nature and History
morning:Embark on a morning hike at the University of Wisconsin Arboretum to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the scenic trails. Later, make a stop at Lazy Jane's Cafe & Bakery for a tasty brunch prepared with locally-sourced ingredients.
afternoon:Visit the Olbrich Botanical Gardens to admire its stunning landscapes and serene beauty. Then, explore the historical exhibits at the Wisconsin Historical Museum and grab a quick bite at Ian's Pizza, known for its unique and delicious slices.
evening:Enjoy a relaxing dinner at The Old Fashioned, famous for its classic Wisconsin fare. Afterward, head to the Essen Haus for an authentic German experience and enjoy live music and a wide selection of beers for a night-out.
Lake Activities
morning:Start your day with a kayak or paddleboard adventure at Lake Wingra, surrounded by picturesque views and tranquil waters. Afterward, enjoy a delightful breakfast at Bassett Street Brunch Club, known for its creative and tasty brunch dishes.
afternoon:Continue your lake exploration with a visit to the UW-Madison Lakeshore Nature Preserve, where you can hike along the lakeshore and admire the diverse ecosystem. Grab a casual lunch at Mickies Dairy Bar, a beloved spot for breakfast and lunch classics.
evening:Dine at Eno Vino Wine Bar & Bistro for a fantastic dinner with panoramic views of the city. Then, head to the Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co. for a lively atmosphere and a variety of craft beers for a night-out.
Art and Culture
morning:Spend your morning exploring the Chazen Museum of Art, featuring a diverse collection of artworks from various time periods and cultures. Later, stop by Short Stack Eatery for a delicious and hearty breakfast, featuring local and sustainable ingredients.
afternoon:Discover the renowned Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Monona Terrace, offering stunning views of Lake Monona and unique architecture. Then, visit the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art to delve into modern art and enjoy a relaxed lunch at Graze, known for its farm-to-table dishes.
evening:Savor an exquisite dinner at Cento, where you can enjoy contemporary Italian cuisine. After dinner, head to the Memorial Union Terrace to savor local beers, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere for a memorable night-out.
Madison Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Cheese Curds
A quintessential Wisconsin dish, cheese curds are bite-sized nuggets of fresh cheese that are breaded and deep-fried to golden perfection. They can be found at numerous establishments across Madison, including the Old Fashioned and The Tipsy Cow.
Must-Try!
Bratwurst
Madison's German heritage is showcased in its love for bratwurst, a flavorful sausage made from pork and beef. Try a delicious bratwurst at the iconic State Street Brats or at the Dane County Farmers' Market.
Fish Fry
A Friday night tradition in Madison, the fish fry typically features beer-battered cod or perch, served with coleslaw, rye bread, and a side of potato pancakes. Explore the Old Feed Mill or The Avenue Club and Bubble Up for an authentic fish fry experience.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Dane County Farmers' Market
One of the largest producer-only farmers' markets in the country, the Dane County Farmers' Market offers an array of fresh produce, local cheeses, baked goods, and ready-to-eat treats, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts.
Food Carts on Library Mall
For an eclectic dining experience, head to Library Mall, where food carts line the streets, offering an assortment of global cuisines, from Korean bibimbap to Mexican street tacos.
Things to do in Madison
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Madison
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!