Things To Do
Madison Farmer's Market
Before the wedding, enjoy breakfast on the state Capitol square at the largest, most diverse farmers' market in the Midwest (only open on Saturdays). There are so many vendors that you can get full on free samples! Yes, buy the hot spicy cheese bread from Stella's!
Wisconsin State Capitol
Take a free tour of the State Capitol, or just walk around and inside for free. Did you know that no building in Madison is allowed to be taller the state Capitol? It is built on the highest point on the isthmus in Madison.
Memorial Union
Drink a beer or eat Babcock ice cream at the University of Wisconsin Student Union on Lake Mendota while sitting in an iconic sunburst chair. You just need an alumni or current student to buy the beer for you.
Chazen Museum of Art
If you need some air conditioning and want to see some good art, check out this museum that takes about two hours to go through.
Henry Vilas Zoo
FREE zoo (legitimate AZA accredited zoo, not some dinky fake zoo). Check out its pride and joy, the red panda. Then, go to the park next door to play inside the giant shoe!
Rent a bcycle and ride around town instead of driving
check out the website to see where the stations are and how to pay for them. it's pretty fun!
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
visit the botanical gardens or the biodomes
James Madison Park
go swimming in Lake Mendota at the beach for free!
University of Wisconsin-Madison
tour the University of Wisconsin-Madisonand learn how to become a Badger!
Eat at a traditional Wisconsin Supper Club
Supper clubs really only exist in Wisconsin. What makes a restaurant a supper club? They offer brandy old fashioned sweet cocktails, have a relish tray or salad bar, offer delicious ice cream cocktails for dessert, and they only serve supper. Look for these details when you try to find an authentic one to visit. I trust this website's list of supper clubs.
State Street
Visit the funky artisan shops, art galleries, and restaurant and bars on this pedestrian-only (and buses) street that spans from the state Capitol to the university.