Madison is a place where tradition meets innovation. It is much more than just a college town and state capital.
Madison is also a place where families come to spend time on the lake, friends gather over food and drinks, and art and history lovers can enjoy live music and an abundance of museums.
There’s always something going on here, from farmers markets to outdoor concerts, so everyone, regardless of age, feels at home.
Activity Center
Wisconsin may be rooted in history and tradition, but it excels in science, art and fun.
Explore the main campus of the University of Wisconsin, founded in 1848. It is always a hub of activity, even when there are no classes taking place.
Watch a UW football or basketball game and see what Badger spirit is all about. Spend an evening at Collins Recital Hall for a musical performance or a day strolling through the Chazen Art Museum, then explore the outdoor Allen Centennial Gardens. Also check out the hands-on science exhibits and events in the Discovery Building on campus.
A day spent at the State Capitol doesn’t have to be history. After exploring the interior of the dome-shaped capital, decorated with works of art and mosaics, climb to the observation deck and enjoy a 365-degree view of the city center. Then grab a bite to eat at a tavern or farm-to-table establishment near the capital square.
For more family fun, check out the polar bear exhibit at Henry Vilas Zoo and explore the Olbrich Botanical Gardens. Both attractions are open all year round.
A day spent on or near the water is always a good idea; cruise Lake Mendota in a rental boat, enjoy one of Madison’s 12 beaches, or go snowshoeing on the frozen lake in the winter.
Breweries, farm-to-table products and more
Our capital is home to a diverse culinary scene; bring elastic pants.
Our agricultural heritage is deeply rooted in our farm-to-table restaurants, local farms and vineyards, and farmers markets.
From cottage cheese to fish chips and sausages, our culinary scene is not only fresh, but also diverse. For local beer and wood-fired pizza, dine at Full Mile Beer Co. &Kitchen. Offering a taste of Asian cuisine, visit K-Peppers, run by a Korean family trained by some of the best chefs in South Korea.
For a sweet treat, stop by the Babcock Hall Dairy Store, which offers 22 ice cream flavors, including limited-edition options like salted caramel toffee.
Don’t miss local produce at the Dane County Farmers Market, where you’ll find fresh cheeses, baked goods and more.
Interesting accommodation, access
Tradition and innovation are also entering the hotel scene, with everything from quaint guesthouses to city-style accommodations.
Stop by Graduate Madison with college-style décor inspired by the UW campus just a block away. Amenities include a 24-hour fitness center with Peloton bikes, complimentary bike rentals, and a camp-inspired rooftop bar.
For a conventional stay with outdoor adventures, book a room at the Hickory Knoll Farm Bed & Breakfast, located on a working horse farm just outside Madison and close to trails and bike paths.
And if you have a favorite chain and loyalty points to apply, you’ll find plenty of comfortable and recognizable hotels throughout the city.
Madison is easily accessible by car or plane. If you’re heading into the city from Milwaukee, hop on Interstate 94. Coming from Chicago? Take I-90 straight to Madison. If you plan by plane, Dane County Regional Airport is a 15-minute drive from downtown. You can also fly into Mitchell International Airport and drive from Milwaukee.
Any time is a good time to visit Madison. So come make some memories and choose Madison as your home away from home.
