Things To Do
Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center
Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center boasts a fantastic view of Lake Monona. The Terrace is free to visit, and has an exhibit about Frank Lloyd Wright's vision for the city of Madison, as well as a unique gift shop that features Wright-inspired items.
Wisconsin State Capitol
We highly recommend visiting the Wisconsin State Capitol while in Madison! The building is open to the public daily and is an awe-inspiring sight (both inside and out). Located in the heart of Madison, connecting the East and West sides of Madison via the isthmus, the Capitol is the highest point of the city and is visible miles away. Pro tip: we highly recommend going on Saturday morning to catch the Dane County Farmers Market, which takes place on the square!
Dane County Farmers Market
The Dane County Farmer's market is the largest producer-only farmers’ market in the country, and takes place every Saturday morning on the Capitol Square. We highly recommend checking it out! Grab a drink at one of the coffee shops on the square and enjoy perusing local produce, baked goods, fresh-cut flowers, honey, and art. (Please note: Saturday morning ONLY!)
Memorial Union
Craving a drink, a bite, or some ice cream? Check out the Memorial Union, one of the most beloved and historic destinations on UW-Madison’s campus. The Union overlooks Mendota lake and often has live music on the patio.
Henry Vilas Zoo
The Henry Vilas Zoo is one of few admission-free, community-supported zoos across the country. The zoo is home to 650 animals from all over the world, including 20 endangered species.
State Street
The State Street pedestrian mall is a must-see. Connecting the UW-Madison campus directly to the Wisconsin State Capitol, the road is lined with shops, clothing stores, restaurants, and bars. Cars are not allowed on State Street, so it's also a great bike route!
Picnic Point
Picnic Point, a nearly mile-long peninsula along Lake Mendota’s south shore, is among Madison’s most distinctive features and is probably the most popular destination in the Preserve. The peninsula is home to several Native American burial mounds, and is a peaceful walk to a beautiful view of the Mendota Lake and the Madison isthmus.
UW-Madison Arboretum
The UW-Madison Arboretum houses 1,200 acres of tallgrass prairies, savannas, wetlands, several forest types, flowering trees, shrubs, and a world-famous lilac collection. Within the preserve is a network of 17 miles of trails. (Fun fact: this is where Aisha & Chris had their engagement photos taken, as seen on the Save the Date!)
Explore Madison by E-Bike!
Madison has a huge network of bike paths, making the city very bike-able. There are electric bikes offered by BCycle installed around the city which make it easy to get around. Biking is our preferred mode of transport in the summertime! Our favorite routes are riding along the Monona Lake shore, riding to Picnic Point from the Memorial Union, or heading up State Street to the Capitol!
Brittingham Boats
If you want to get on the water, you can rent a kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or paddle-boat at Brittingham Boats! You will have access to Lake Monona, where you can see the Capitol and the Monona Terrace, or paddle around the Monona Bay.