Madison, Wisconsin is a vibrant city full of culture, history, and outdoor activities. Located in the heart of the Midwest, Madison is a great destination for visitors looking to experience the beauty of America's Dairyland.
Home to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the city is known for its lively student atmosphere, diverse cultural attractions, and year-round outdoor recreation. From music and art festivals to hiking and biking trails, Madison offers something for everyone. Visitors can explore the city's beautiful lakeshore parks, visit the iconic State Capitol building, or take a stroll down State Street for some of the best shopping and dining in the area.
For a unique experience, visit one of Madison's many farmers markets or take a boat tour of the area's lakes and rivers. In the summer, visitors can take part in outdoor activities like kayaking, sailing, and swimming. In the winter, Madison is a great place to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
No matter what time of year you visit, Madison has something for everyone. From its diverse culture to its outdoor recreation, Madison is a great place to explore and experience all the Midwest has to offer.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Downtown: Madison’s downtown area is a vibrant hub of activity, with a wide variety of restaurants, shops, nightlife, and cultural attractions.
2. University of Wisconsin Campus: Home to the University of Wisconsin, this area offers plenty of student-centered amenities, including a large variety of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.
3. East Side: Boasting an eclectic mix of classic and modern architecture, this neighborhood offers a variety of great restaurants, bars, shops, and more.
4. State Street: Located between the University of Wisconsin Campus and the Capitol Square, this popular street features plenty of restaurants, bars, shops, and attractions.
5. Capitol Square: Surrounded by State Street and the downtown area, the Capitol Square is a great place to explore and experience the history of Madison. It is home to the State Capitol, the Governor's Mansion, and a variety of museums, galleries, and parks.
1. The Wisconsin State Capitol - This historic building is the centerpiece of Madison, and is the seat of government for the state of Wisconsin. It is a beautiful building that has been designated a National Historic Landmark.
2. Olbrich Botanical Gardens - This botanical garden features 16 acres of outdoor display gardens and a conservatory with tropical plants, ferns, orchids, and more.
3. Henry Vilas Zoo - This free zoo houses over 800 animals from around the world in naturalistic habitats.
4. University of Wisconsin-Madison - The University of Wisconsin-Madison is a top-ranked public research university located in the heart of Madison.
5. State Street - This pedestrian-only street is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
1. Cheese Curds: Cheese curds are a local delicacy in Wisconsin, and Madison is no exception. Made from deep-fried cheese curds, they are a savory, salty snack often served with ranch or marinara dipping sauces.
2. Bratwursts: Bratwursts are a popular German-style sausage found throughout the Midwest. In Madison, they are often served on a bun with sauerkraut or onions.
3. Fish Fry: Fish fry is a regional tradition in Wisconsin and Madison is no exception. Fish fry typically includes battered and fried cod or walleye served with tartar sauce, coleslaw, and french fries.
4. Babcock Ice Cream: Babcock Ice Cream is a local favorite made on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus. It comes in a variety of flavors, including chocolate almond, cherry amaretto, and coffee caramel.
5. Fried Cheese Curd Pizza: Madison's local pizza places offer this unique and delicious combination of cheese curds, red sauce, and mozzarella cheese on a thin crust. It's a favorite among locals and visitors alike.