Top Activities
in Madison, WI
Get Ice Cream at the Terrace
Head over to the terrace at the Memorial Union for some of the best ice cream in the city from Babcock Dairy Store. With its stunning lake views and cozy atmosphere, it's the perfect spot to relax, indulge in a scoop (or two), and enjoy the sun!
Henry Vilas Zoo - Free!
For a relaxed outing, visit Henry Vilas Zoo—and it’s free! Just a short trip from downtown, the zoo is home to a variety of animals and offers a great way to spend some time outdoors. Whether you're an animal lover or just looking to enjoy a peaceful walk, it's a nice spot to explore during your time in Madison.
Rent E-bikes & Bike the Lake Loop
Take advantage of the city's bike-friendly vibe by renting an e-bike from one of the many Madison B-cycle stations located throughout the city and surrounding areas. Cruise the scenic Monona Lake Loop for a beautiful ride with stunning lake views, charming parks, and vibrant neighborhoods. It’s a fun way to explore Madison at your own pace!
Dane County Farmers' Market
The Dane County Farmers Market is a must-see while you're in Madison! It's one of the largest and most vibrant farmers markets in the country, offering fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and unique finds. Located around the Capitol Square every Saturday morning, it’s a perfect spot to explore, grab a bite, and experience the charm of Madison. We recommend checking it out during your visit!
Attend a Madison Mallards Game
If you’re in the mood for some quirky fun, check out the Madison Mallards! It’s not just baseball—it’s a full-on experience of goofy mascots, wild fan interactions, and plenty of cold beer. Watching the ducks play ball might not sound that exciting, but trust us, it’s a Wisconsin tradition you'll enjoy.
Trolley Pub Madison
If you’re looking for a truly Wisconsin way to drink and explore, hop on the Trolley Pub Madison! It’s a pedal-powered bar on wheels—because why walk when you can drink and pedal at the same time? Grab some friends, hop aboard, and cruise around downtown with a cold one in hand. It’s the perfect way to embrace Wisconsin’s love for beer and bikes!
Spend Time on the Lake
With four beautiful lakes to explore, Madison is a perfect place to spend some time on the water. Rent a kayak or paddleboard from Brittingham Boats to explore Lake Monona or take a pontoon ride on Lake Mendota.
Hike One of the Many State Parks
Madison and surrounding is home to several beautiful state parks, like Governor Nelson State Park and Governor Dodge State Park, perfect for hiking, picnicking, or just enjoying the outdoors. For those willing to travel a bit further, Devil's Lake State Park offers stunning views, varying difficulty trails, and swimming for people and dogs!
Enjoy Music at Concerts on the Square
Listen to live music at Concert on the Square Wednesday nights! This free event includes a fun twist: it's the only event on the Capitol lawn where typical outdoor liquor laws are not enforced, so BYOB and make it a picnic! Just bring your snacks, drinks, and a blanket for fun with family/friends.
Hangout at Madison’s Night Market
Check out the Madison Night Market on Thursday nights for a laid-back evening of local eats, crafts, and live music. It’s a chill way to explore what the city has to offer, with a mix of food trucks, artisan goods, and great vibes.
Get food and drinks downtown
Madison offers a great variety of food and drink options, from casual spots serving up local favorites like cheese curds to upscale restaurants and cocktail bars. No trip to Wisconsin is complete without a New Glarus Spotted Cow, sold only in Wisco… people literally traffic this beer across state lines.
Check out our favorite local restaraunts and bars.
UW Madison & State Capitol
Take a stroll around the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus and the Wisconsin State Capitol. Look for Bucky the Badger around campus!
Fun fact: The Capitol is the tallest building in Madison because city laws prevent any building from being taller than the Capitol’s dome.
A list of our favorite restaurants, bars, & cafes
Lucille’s Madison - Upscale pizza & cocktails on capitol square
Cooper’s Tavern - Upscale Irish food & cocktails on capitol square
Madison Sourdough - Bright, airy café serving house-made bread, pastries & brunch close to downtown
Ancora Cafe and Bakery - Cozy breakfast and brunch spot in downtown
Dhaba Indian Bistro - Cozy, family-run restaurant serving classic North Indian dishes. 15 minutes from downtown
Eno Vino Downtown - Rooftop wine bar with small plates and view of the capitol square
The Harvey House - Elegant downtown supper club inspired by vintage railcar dining, offering upscale Midwest fare - co-founded by a Top Chef alum
Bandit Tacos - Trendy counter-service taco joint in downtown
Heritage Tavern - Inventive American fine dining with a seasonal, locally sourced menu in downtown
Marigold Kitchen - Bright breakfast and lunch café in downtown
The Great Dane Pub & Brewing - Casual brewpub with pub fare, house-brewed beer, and a relaxed vibe
Lombardino’s Restaurant - Charming Italian spot with old-school flair and classic pasta dishes close to downtown
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants - Upscale chain known for wine pairings and contemporary American food. 20 minutes from downtown
Tornado Steakhouse - Classic Wisconsin steakhouse with a retro vibe and late-night menu in downtown
Himal Chuli - Cozy and beloved spot for traditional Nepalese & Himalayan comfort food in downtown
Sugar River Pizza - Casual spot known for creative specialty pizzas, hearty portions, and a laid-back atmosphere. 20 minutes from downtown
The Globe - Contemporary cuisine with international flavors in a relaxed space downtown
Fairchild - Elevated, locally driven tasting menus in an intimate and stylish setting close to downtown
Rajni Indian Cuisine - Family-owned restaurant serving flavorful South Indian specialties. 20 minutes from downtown
Campo di bella - Farm-to-table restaurant about 25 minutes outside of downtown
The Boathouse - Lakeside dining with views of Lake Mendota and classic Wisconsin fare
Genna's Lounge - Classic downtown cocktail bar with cozy vibes and Capitol views
Sencha Tea Bar - Trendy café offering a wide selection of bubble teas, loose-leaf brews, and matcha drinks
State Street Brats - Campus-area sports bar famous for its red bratwurst and game day energy