When I visited Madison, I was blown away by how much this city packs in—lakeside views, amazing food, and a mix of culture and nature that’s hard to beat. These Madison activities and attractions gave me such a great feel for the city, whether I was looking for something peaceful, playful, or totally local. No matter what kind of getaway you're planning, Madison has something that’ll surprise you.
Highlights:
- Tour the stunning Wisconsin State Capitol – I loved the free tours and the view from the dome was totally worth the climb.
- Stroll through the Arboretum or Olbrich Gardens – Both were peaceful escapes with gorgeous scenery and winding paths.
- Explore State Street and Capitol Square – I found great local shops, tasty eats, and live music without even trying.
- Bike the Lake Monona Loop – The views were amazing, and renting a paddleboard on Lake Mendota was such a fun way to cool off.
- Visit the Henry Vilas Zoo and Madison Children’s Museum – Perfect for families, but honestly, I had just as much fun as the kids.
Best Things to Do in Madison, WI
Wisconsin State Capitol - Admire the grand dome and explore free exhibits on a fascinating trip.
Madison Museum of Contemporary Art - See modern works and explore rooftop views during a quick cultural visit.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens - Walk through blooming landscapes and admire colorful plants on a beautiful spring day.
Camp Randall Stadium, University of Wisconsin - Cheer for the Badgers and enjoy the electric atmosphere on a fun weekend.
University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum - Explore scenic trails and discover native plants during a peaceful retirement outing.
Chazen Museum of Art - Look at global art and explore creative spaces on a thoughtful trip.
Allen Centennial Garden - Admire floral designs and stroll peaceful paths on a sunny summer visit.
Madison Eats - Taste local dishes and explore food tours for a flavorful stuff experience.
La Taguara -
Gail Ambrosius Chocolatier -
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)