Things to Do in Middleton, WI
Searching for the best things to do in Middleton, Wisconsin? Well, you are in the right place! This was such a peaceful Midwest retreat! I thought it was wonderfully charming with its rolling green hills, some of the best Wiscnsin lakes, scenic bike trails, and warm, small-town character. I also loved the cozy neighborhoods, exploring the nature preserves, and getting to know the vibrant food-and-drink scene in town.
I drove from Madison (just 15 minutes) and spent a long weekend at a welcoming lakeside inn in "The Good Neighbor City". I strolled through the picturesque Pheasant Branch Conservancy, where bubbling springs and wetlands attract sandhill cranes and deer.
One of my favorite things to do was going for a walked along the beautiful paths connecting Middleton to Lake Mendota and Madison. Visiting the award-winning National Mustard Museum was also a highlight!
Downtown Middleton stood out with its boutique shops, cafés, and craft breweries. I also explored Lakeview Park’s gardens and my favorite sunset views, and ended each evening dining on farm-to-table Wisconsin specialties. Here are my favorite things to do in Middleton that I hope you'll love too.
Why Should You Trust These Vacation Ideas?
The United States is our home and we started this website over 30 years ago. After decades of travel writing and five years of non-stop travel, our content is based on real-world experience.
1. National Mustard Museum
This was one of those quirky attractions that instantly put a smile on my face and kept me entertained for hours.
I loved walking through the exhibits and seeing shelves lined with more than 6,000 mustards from around the world—it felt like stepping into a flavorful treasure chest.
I thought the displays were both funny and fascinating, mixing mustard history, odd facts, and playful humor in a way that made learning genuinely fun.
I enjoyed browsing the gift shop afterward, where I found unique mustards, gourmet snacks, and silly mustard-themed souvenirs that I couldn’t resist taking home.
I appreciated how family-friendly the museum was, with interactive exhibits and a lighthearted atmosphere that made it enjoyable for kids and adults alike.
I especially loved that the museum didn’t take itself too seriously—there was a joyfulness to every corner, from the “Poupon U” merchandise to the whimsical artwork on the walls.
I found it convenient that the museum was located right in downtown Middleton, making it easy to pair a visit with nearby shops and restaurants.
I thought the founder’s passion for mustard shined through in the collection and storytelling, which gave the place such a personal and authentic charm.
For me, the National Mustard Museum was a hidden gem—fun, flavorful, and one of the most unique museums I’ve ever visited.
- Address: National Mustard Museum, 7477 Hubbard Ave, Middleton, WI 53562
- Hours: Typically 10am–5pm
- Price: Free entry; mustards $4–$10
What I loved best:
My favorite part was the tasting bar, where I could sample everything from sweet and smoky to spicy and bold varieties, discovering flavors I never even knew existed.
2. Pope Farm Conservancy
Chris and I both absolutely love the Pope Farm Conservancy, and have been many times. This was my favorite place to visit in Middleton for natural beauty!
We started by parking at Pope Farm Conservancy, which already felt like a hidden gem the second we arrived.
Walking in first thing, we followed the main trail and the open prairie views were the best introduction, with rolling hills, tall grasses, and this quiet magic everywhere.
I remember stopping early just to breathe it all in, because the experience felt so calm and underrated, like one of those places you dream about.
Next we wandered deeper along the paths, and we kept saying how amazing and affordable this spot is for families, couples, or even a romantic walk.
We spent a lot of time near the overlook area, which was my favorite, because you could see farmland stretching out and it felt spectacular and peaceful.
Later we explored the shorter trails, which were interesting and unique in how they loop through prairie and wooded areas, definitely see in my photos.
There was this cool breeze and vibrant wildflowers everywhere, and it honestly felt like the absolute best nature break without leaving the Madison area.
We sat on a bench for a while, talking, and that simple moment became one of the most joyful parts of the whole day.
After that we walked slowly back, noticing birds and butterflies, and it felt like such an unusual but brilliant idea for a local conservancy.
What makes Pope Farm Conservancy special is how it feels both exciting and relaxing at the same time, which is not easy to find.
- Address: 7440 W Old Sauk Rd, Verona, WI 53593
- Hours: Sunrise to sunset
- Price: Free
- Pope Farm Conservancy website
What I loved best:
Pope Farm Conservancy stood out as the kind of scene that made me pause and just breathe it all in!
I found it convenient that the conservancy was close to town, making it an easy place to stop by whether for a quick walk or a longer hike.
3. Middleton Area Historical Society Depot Museum
Inside the old depot, the air carried a trace of oiled wood and paper archives, and this place felt like the favorite local secret.
I stood by an antique ticket window, picturing travelers stepping onto platforms decades ago.
I loved how the building itself told a story, with its vintage architecture and carefully preserved details that made me imagine the days when trains were the lifeline of the community.
My favorite thing to do was exploring the exhibits filled with artifacts, photos, and memorabilia that highlighted everyday life in Middleton through different eras.
I thought the railroad displays were especially fascinating, with historic equipment and stories that captured how travel and commerce shaped the town’s growth.
I enjoyed learning about the local businesses, schools, and families that built the area, all showcased in thoughtful displays that brought history to life.
- Address: 1811 Parmenter St, Middleton, WI 53562
- Hours: Seasonal; typically afternoons
- Price: Free, donations welcome
- Middleton Area Historical Society Depot Museum website
What I loved best:
Middleton Area Historical Society Depot Museum was my favorite historical attraction in town!
In addition, I appreciated the intimate size of the museum, which made it easy to take my time and absorb each story without feeling overwhelmed.
4. Middleton Players Theatre
This was my favorite place to visit for a fun evening out with my husband.
The stage lights came up on a lively community cast, the air still carrying that backstage scent of paint and sawdust. I leaned forward in my seat, enjoying the energy at Middleton Players Theatre.
- Address: Middleton Performing Arts Center, 2100 Bristol St, Middleton, WI 53562
- Season: Shows throughout the year
- Price: $15–$25 per ticket
- Middleton Players Theatre website
Seeing a performance at The Nitty Gritty was my favorite thing to do to end the day.
What stood out for me was the friendly community atmosphere.
5. Craftsman Table and Tap
Tucked away on Frank Lloyd Wright Ave, this place was my favorite spot for a relaxed lunch on the patio in the summer.
I ordered a plate of braised short ribs, the meat tender enough to yield at a nudge of the fork, the sauce rich and aromatic.
- Address: 6712 Frank Lloyd Wright Ave, Middleton, WI 53562
- Hours: Lunch and dinner daily
- Price: $15–$30 per entrée
What we loved best:
My son had a hamburger that he still talks about, with their homemade pickles and leafy greens."
6. 1847 at the Stamm House
What stood out to me here was that we were able to combine an amazing meal with a historic setting in a 19th-century building.
The building’s stone walls seemed to hold the cool of the evening. My roasted chicken came with herbs crisped in butter, and I lingered over each bite beneath a warm glow of pendant lights.
- Address: 6625 Century Ave, Middleton, WI 53562
- Hours: Dinner daily; brunch on weekends
- Price: $20–$35 per entrée
What we loved best:
The truffle fries served with garlic aoli were a real standout here!
7. The Nitty Gritty
Locals told me about this place for lunch and it quickly became one of my favorite stops in Middleton for a lively lunch.
Walking in, we noticed the vibrant colors, loud energy, and that unusual Wisconsin pride vibe that made it feel fun and exciting right away.
The walls were packed with memories and photos.
We grabbed a booth first and that was a brilliant idea because it let us take everything in while ordering drinks.
I went with one of their famous mugs which was affordable and honestly part of the magic of the place.
The burgers came out next and they were my favorite part, easily the absolute best comfort food experience we had all weekend.
We talked about how this place is perfect for a family stop or even a casual romantic night if you like fun chaos.
After eating, we walked around inside and checked out all the quirky details that make The Nitty Gritty so unique and interesting.
It felt like one of those most underrated stops in Middleton that locals know is cool but visitors might miss.
We loved how close it was to parks and shopping, making it an easy add-on to any weekend plans.
- Address: 1025 Middleton St, Middleton, WI 53562
- Hours: Lunch to late evening
- Price: Burgers and sandwiches $10–$15
What we loved best:
For me, the burgers were a standout at The Nitty Gritty for our family lunch.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, we've found that buying the America the Beautiful Pass is cost effective.
