Kristen & John
Things To Do
State Street
State Street is the beating heart of Madison's downtown. It's an 8-block pedestrian zone that stretches from the eastern side of UW-Madison's campus all the way to the capitol building, and it's got restaurants, bars, and shops galore!
Memorial Union Terrace
The Terrace is a UW-Madison warm weather staple for chill vibes, good beer, and amazing views of Lake Mendota. Fun fact: we had our first date there; needless to say, it went well ;)
Dane County Farmer's Market
Madison's farmer's market is the best we have ever been to; it wraps around the state capitol building, filling up the entire Capitol Square! There's nothing better than spending your Saturday morning with Stella's spicy cheesy bread, toasty cheese curds, and a bouquet of fresh flowers!
Picnic Point
Picnic Point is a peninsula that has a beautiful view of downtown Madison from across Lake Mendota. It's an easy, scenic walk from the start to the end of the peninsula. Be sure to pack some snacks!
Lakeshore Path
Lakeshore Path is a scenic paved and dirt bike/pedestrian path hugging Lake Mendota. In college, we both lived in the dorms right next to this path and each spent many study breaks there. The path connects Memorial Union all the way to Picnic Point, so choose your adventure of how far you want to take it!
Paddling on Lake Monona
Getting out on the water is part of what makes a Madison summertime so special! You can rent paddleboards and kayaks from Brittingham Boats and paddle out onto Lake Monona for iconic downtown Madison views.
Restuarants we love
Paul's Pelmeni - Russian pierogis. This place only has 2 things on their menu (beef or potato pierogis), so you know they do it well! This was our go-to comfort food in college. Dotty Dumpling's Dowry - Great burgers, and even better cheese curds. If anyone tells you that there are better cheese curds in Madison, they're wrong! Ian's Pizza - Pizza with unique topping combinations (think flavors like mac 'n cheese, taco, and Thanksgiving). Chen's Dumplings - Get the pork and chive dumplings. If you're not convinced, then ask Dan McShane (John's dad) about it. The list goes on and on...
Bars we love
Genna's Lounge - a chill bar close to the Capitol building that is one of our favorites! The Ivory Room Piano Bar - two words: dueling pianos. I/O - a super sweet arcade bar on Willie St (Williamson St for long). We love a bar with a good activity. Eno Vino - a fancier restaurant/wine bar with an elevated view of the Capitol building! Their outdoor patio is incredible. Whisky Jack's Saloon - NOT A REAL RECOMMENDATION, but we did have our first kiss and say our first "I love you" there. Side note: it will be full of college students dancing on a sticky floor. Nice.