Things To Do

Dane County Farmers' Market

We highly recommend checking out the largest producer only farmers market in the US Saturday mornings in the Capitol Square. Browse around 275 local vendors including produce, meats, baked goods and of course…cheese! The market gets extremely busy. If you would like to avoid crowds we recommend arriving early. Saturdays 6:15am-1:45pm

Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Emily and Jorin love exploring these beautiful gardens. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the quail living in the conservatory!

Memorial Union

Probably one of the best hangout spots downtown, enjoy the university made ice cream, a beer, or if you’re feeling adventurous rentals like paddle boards or kayaks are available.

Chazen Museum of Art

This University museum has an extensive collection that offers a little is something for everyone. Exhibits span diverse cultures and periods. One of Emily’s favorite places when she was a student, admission is free!

Henry Vilas Zoo

Picnic Point

Take a nice long walk or bike ride along the lakeshore path from Memorial Union to Picnic Point to enjoy some nature in the middle of town and enjoy views of downtown from across the lake.

Madison Children's Museum

Bloom Bake Shop

Madison Sourdough

Paul's Pel'meni

A favorite late night food, they serve beef or potato dumplings. Ordering your dumplings with “the works” is highly recommended.

Fromagination

When in Wisconsin, one must eat cheese. This is Emily and Jorin’s favorite cheese shop in the city. Sample cheeses and other local goodies, or take a sandwich to go and have a picnic on the Capitol lawn.

Ian’s Pizza Madison | State Street

A Madison staple, get pizza by the slice featuring some outrageous toppings.

Cento

Marigold Kitchen

Tempest Oyster Bar

Bandit - Tacos & Coffee

Middleton

If you’d like to explore outside of downtown Madison, visit our town! Take a stroll at Pheasant Branch Nature Conservancy, check out the little downtown, and stop by our favorite coffee shop Vitruvius.