Things to Do in Middleton, WI
Searching for the best things to do in Middleton, one of my favorite places to visit Wisconsin? Well, you are in the right place! Chris and I spent a week here and this was such a peaceful stop on our Midwest road trip! I thought it was so lovely with its rolling green hills, some of the best Wisconsin 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. There are heaps of amazing things to do here! This is exactly why I decided to share my favourite things in Middleton so that you can use my guide as an inspiration to plan your own road trip.
I drove from Madison (just 15 minutes) and spent a long weekend at a welcoming lakeside inn in "The Good Neighbor City" (as it's nicknamed). First thing, I strolled through the picturesque Pheasant Branch Conservancy (my #1 thing to do in Middleton), where bubbling springs and wetlands instantly made me feel more relaxed. You can see sandhill cranes and deer.
My second favorite thing to do in Middleton was going for a walked along the beautiful paths connecting Middleton to Lake Mendota and Madison.
Downtown Middleton stood out with its boutique shops, cafés, and craft breweries. I also explored Lakeview Park’s gardens (my #3 thing to do in Middleton) for my favorite sunset views, and ended each evening dining on farm-to-table Wisconsin specialties. Here are the rest of my favorite things to do in Middleton as a local guide that I hope you'll love too.
National Mustard Museum
This was one of those quirky attractions that instantly put a smile on my face and kept me entertained for hours. It is my #4 favorite thing to do in Middleton and I think it's a must-see road trip stop.
I loved walking through the exhibits and seeing shelves lined with more than 6,000 mustards from around the world. Honestly, 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 recommend browsing the gift shop afterward. I found unique mustards, gourmet snacks, and silly mustard-themed souvenirs that I couldn’t resist taking home for my family and friends.
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.
You'll find it convenient that the National Mustard Museum was located right in downtown Middleton, making it easy to pair a visit with nearby shops and restaurants. You literally can't miss it!
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.
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.
Pope Farm Conservancy
Chris and I both absolutely love the Pope Farm Conservancy (my #5 thing to do in Middleton), and have been many times. This was my one of my favorite vacation ideas for natural beauty and I hope you love it too!
We started by parking at Pope Farm Conservancy, which already felt like a hidden gem the second we arrived. I instantly thought our journey was worth it!
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.
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.
What I loved best:
Pope Farm Conservancy stood out as the kind of scene that made me pause and just breathe it all in! Seeing all the birds and butterflies was my favorite highlight.
Middleton Area Historical Society Depot Museum
Inside the old depot (my #6 thing to do in Middleton), the air carried a trace of oiled wood and paper archives, and this place felt like the favorite local secret.
First thing, I stood by an antique ticket window, picturing travelers stepping onto platforms decades ago.
After, we enjoyed 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.
What I loved best:
I enjoyed learning about the local businesses, schools, and families that built the area, all showcased in thoughtful displays that brought history to life, my favorite highlight.
Middleton Players Theatre
This was my favorite place to visit for a fun evening out with my husband. I leaned forward in my seat, enjoying the energy at Middleton Players Theatre (my #7 thing to do in Middleton).
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 late summer (my #8 thing to do in Middleton).
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.
What we loved best:
My son had a hamburger that he still talks about, with their homemade pickles and leafy greens.
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 at 1847 at the Stamm House (my #9 thing to do in Middleton) came with herbs crisped in butter, and I lingered over each bite beneath a warm glow of pendant lights.
What we loved best:
The truffle fries served with garlic aoli were a real standout here!
The Nitty Gritty
Locals told me about this place and it quickly became one of my favorite stops in Middleton for a lively lunch. I think it's worth stopping here even if you are just passing through on a road trip.
Walking into The Nitty Gritty (my #10 thing to do in Middleton), we instantly noticed that the walls were packed with memories and photos.
I recommend grabbing a booth so you can relax and take everything in while ordering.
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.
What we loved best:
I think that The Nitty Gritty is on of the best things to do Middleton, especially since it's so close to parks and shopping, making it an easy add-on to any weekend plans.
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.
