Madison Is Known for Its Lakeside Capitol — and Its Farmers’ Market Is the Largest in the Nation
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The best things to do in Madison, Wisconsin, include exploring Lost City Forest and seeing the Olbrich Botanical Gardens. From refreshing lakes to incredible architecture, there’s something for every traveler to enjoy.
Madison is Wisconsin’s fun-loving capital city and capital of all things nature, art, and culture. The city’s tourism industry has been growing at around 7% since 2016, and there are plenty of reasons for this.
You’ll enjoy a small city that’s full of epic things to do and explore. Its downtown area is sandwiched between two massive lakes, and there are endless forests and parks surrounding the city. There are even Hindu temples and some of the best golf courses in the country.
Whether you love dining on fresh-caught trout and local sweet corn or mountain biking through thick forests, Madison’s got you covered. We put together our favorite sights and experiences, prioritizing the ones top-rated on Google. Below are the 12 top things to do in Madison, Wisconsin.
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Highlights at a Glance
Explore Downtown’s Architecture
Downtown Madison is ground zero for fun and excitement. It’s also where you’ll find the city’s most impressive buildings. From the Wisconsin Capital Building to the Capitol Theater, you’ll see some of the Midwest’s coolest designs.
Start by walking along State Street to admire the Victorian buildings and architecture. Then, walk to the Mansion Hill Historic District to see iconic mansions and homes.
Check out beautiful buildings such as Mansion Hill Inn, one of the area’s most revered hotels. Then, walk along the lakeshore to the University of Wisconsin to see the iconic Red Gym. End by walking along State Street in the evening to enjoy the exciting nightlife with locals.
Read also: Most Beautiful Cities in the US
Explore the Lost City Forest
The Lost City Forest is a preserved forest near the University of Wisconsin, Madison Arboretum. In this peaceful location, you’ll find a network of stunning trails and hidden creeks. Plus, wildlife is abundant, especially wild deer.
Visit the Lost City Forest during the fall for one of the state’s best fall color shows. You’ll walk miles of trails surrounded by verdant reds, yellows, and oranges.
The Arboretum hosts guided hikes and wildlife activities throughout the warmer months of the year. Visiting the forest with the Arboretum plant experts is a unique experience not to miss!
Read also: Most Scenic Hikes in the US
Experience the Olbrich Botanical Gardens
The Olbrich Botanical Gardens is one of the country’s best botanical gardens for learning about northern climate plants. Through expertly curated exhibits and gardens, you’ll learn about the natural environment of Madison and beyond.
Start in the Sunken Garden, a formal English Garden full of wild herbs and flowers. Then, stroll through the Shade Garden to see river birch and dozens of species of wildlife. Then, head to the other gardens through a network of paths.
One of the highlights of the botanical gardens is the Royal Thai Pavilion, a giant reconstruction of a traditional Thai pavilion. It’s the only traditional Thai pavilion in the continental US and was gifted by the Thai government.
Read also: Beautiful Gardens in the US
Shop at the Dane County Farmers’ Market
The Dane County Farmers’ Market is a great place to buy local produce and chat with locals. Every Saturday and Wednesday, you’ll rub shoulders with the city’s top chefs and foodies.
Grab fresh produce, including local apples and berries. Try the area’s popular sweet corn and talk to the vendors about their farms and boutiques.
Try the locally made sweets and pies. You can also sample local Wisconsin cheeses, some of the best in the country! In summer, don’t miss live music and other events during the market.
Read also: US Cities That Are Perfect for Foodies
Attend an Annual Festival
Madison’s festivals are year-round and full of amazing things to see and do. You’ll dance to live jazz or see Santa handing out hugs. No matter when you visit, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
In summer, the city hosts the Madison Jazz Festival and the ever-popular Beer, Bacon & Cheese Fest. In the fall, don’t miss the 2024 Harvest Fest to try spooky-themed desserts and produce.
In the winter, the city transforms into a winter wonderland full of Christmas markets and cheer. Check out the Holiday Fantasy in Lights and the locally popular Starkweather Winter Solstice Celebration.
Read also: Offbeat US Attractions
Enjoy the Free Chazen Museum of Art
The Chazen Museum of Art is not only free but full of over 20,000 art pieces! The University of Wisconsin runs the museum and always produces an expertly curated show.
You’ll see impressive collections of modern and classical art. From interactive exhibits to mind-altering artistic spaces, this museum is a hit for anyone who loves art.
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The permanent art collection includes some of the country and state’s top artists. You’ll see famous paintings from artists such as Gail Singer. You’ll also see historical artifacts such as mosaics and pottery from Rome, Greece, and Asia.
Read also: Hidden Treasures in the US
Explore the City’s Culinary Legacy
Madison’s culinary legacy lies in more than just cheese. Some of the best chefs in the Midwest and beyond gravitate here for the fresh produce and excellent lake fish. And of course, the cheese is good too!
Most chefs start at the Dane County Farmers’ Market for ingredients. Then, they bring back the bounty to kitchens all over the city. Local favorites include the Short Stack Eatery and Bistro 525.
The city is one of the best places to try farm-to-table dining. Places such as Pasture and Plenty serve amazing dishes with fresh local ingredients. Come to the city hungry, it’ll change your life!
Read also: Surreal Places You Won’t Believe Are in the US
Sip on Craft Beer and Cider
Madison’s craft beer and cider scene is off the charts. It was voted as one of the best cities in the world to drink in by PUNCH magazine. From brewpubs to trendy bars, this college town pulls out all the stops when it comes to libations.
Downtown, check out craft beer staples such as The Lone Girl Brewing Company Taproom and Working Draft Beer Company. There are also tons of brewery tours and beer-related events to enjoy.
Every August, don’t miss the Great Taste of the Midwest festival. This fun beer and cider-centered event is not to be missed!
Read also: Must-Visit US Cities
Visit the Science Museums
As a college town, Madison’s science museums are truly magnetic. You’ll find everything from chemistry-inspired educational centers to geology museums. If you love science or are traveling with young brainiacs, you’ll have plenty to see and discover.
Start at the Geology Museum. The University of Wisconsin runs this fantastic museum and has a whole host of wonderful exhibits. Travel back in time and see dinosaur bones and extinct life that used to call Wisconsin home.
Nothing beats the Madison Children’s Museum if you’re traveling with kids. You and your family will love the interactive exhibits and well-curated spaces where visitors of all ages can explore.
Read also: Unique US Museums
See Frank Lloyd Wright’s Great Works
Architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural wonders are all over Madison. He went to middle and high school in Madison. After becoming a famous architect, he returned to the city to create some of his most impressive works.
Start at the Monona Terrace, a sprawling futuristic terrace and convention center that links Lake Monona with the capital building. This grand building was drafted by Wright, but it wasn’t completed until 1997.
After seeing the terrace, check out his former residence, Taliesin. The 800-acre estate is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can tour the massive house and learn about his holistic approach to architecture.
Read also: Beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the US
Enjoy the Lakes
Madison may be located far from Lake Michigan, but it’s one of the best destinations for freshwater recreation. The city is sandwiched between Lake Monona and Lake Mendota. There are dozens of other smaller lakes near the city limits.
In the summer, explore the lakes via kayak or boat. Try fishing for bass, walleye, and perch. Then, enjoy the sunsets on a lakeside beach for the ultimate relaxing experience.
In winter, the lakes freeze, and locals hit the ice for winter sports and ice fishing. It’s so cold in the lakes that you can take a snowmobile on them during the winter peak.
Read also: US Lake Destinations
Visit the Wisconsin State Capital
The beautiful Wisconsin State Capital is one of the largest state capital buildings in the country. Its famous dome, sculptures, and architectural designs make it a must-see landmark in the city.
It was built in 1904, shortly after a fire burnt down much of the original capital building. Its impressive granite dome is the largest in the US and the only dome in the world made from granite.
The best way to get to know the capital building is by taking a guided tour. Every day, you can tour the inside of the building and see its stunning interior halls. In the spring, summer, and fall, don’t miss the observation deck on the sixth floor for 360° views of the city.
Read also: Must-See US Landmarks
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