One of the most iconic locations on the UW-Madison campus, the Terrace features a ton of outdoor seating with a gorgeous view of Lake Mendota. There's no better place to eat a brat, drink a beer, and watch the sunset. If you've never tried a true Wisconsin cheese curd, this is your golden opportunity: you can find them inside the Memorial Union at Der Rathskeller. Ice cream can be found at the Daily Scoop (also inside). For those feeling adventurous, Outdoor UW offers kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddleboard rentals right on site.
The Wisconsin state capitol is regarded as one of the prettiest state capitols in the country. They offer several free guided tours each day, giving an opportunity to learn more about its history. Fun facts (in no particular order): The building is radially symmetric, with four wings connected by the center. The dome is the largest granite-built dome in the world It is the tallest building in Madison - legislation prohibits any building's height from exceeding the support columns on its dome
One of Madison's most beloved summertime activities. The Dane County Farmers' Market is the largest producers-only farmers' market in the U.S., featuring fresh produce, flowers, cheese, meat, baked goods, food carts, and handmade arts. The market is held every Saturday morning from 6:15am to 1:45pm on Capitol Square in downtown Madison. Seowon recommends trying the spicy cheese bread from Stella's Bakery, beef jerky, and cheese curds. If you're arriving in Madison early, it's a perfect way to enjoy the wedding morning!
Great lakeside walking path which leads up to a panoramic view of Lake Mendota. A very popular place to go for a walk!
Located just east of the Capitol Square, Williamson Street (A.K.A. Willy Street) is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood filled with restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and unique gift shops. Some of our favorite spots—Ahan and Lazy Jane’s Cafe & Bakery—are right on Willy Street. If you enjoy local arts or are looking for a souvenir, check out Hatch Art House. They have local artists' handmade products, including small art prints, jewelry, and Wisconsin-shaped magnets.
Our favorite Korean restaurant in Madison. Their specialty is soft tofu stew - we can't get enough of it! They also have bibimbap, Korean BBQ, and other classic Korean dishes. Note: it can be busy! Our advice is to arrive early.
Wonderful Southeast Asian fusion restaurant - our favorite order is the Drunken Noodles. For reference: John has never ~not~ ordered them when he comes here; Seowon was brave and got the Praram Long Song last time, and she liked it.
Our favorite sushi spot in Madison. A little on the pricier side, but worth it! Our favorites are the Salmon Lover, Mermaid, and Tiger rolls. For your reference, the rolls are a bit bigger: we find that 3 rolls split between the two of us is the perfect amount. Your mileage (and appetite) may vary, though!
Delicious and affordable sushi! Very close to Cordial or the Mason Lounge if you want some drinks after eating.
If you want some amazing pho, this is the place for you. Probably one of our most attended restaurants in the area!
German beer hall serving brats, beer, and the biggest pretzel you've probably ever seen.
Local chain offering a variety of pub food and drinks - nothing too fancy, but if you're craving a nice burger or something fried this is a good place to go!
Best sandwiches in Madison, hands down. Note: only open for lunch (10:30am-2:30pm) on weekdays.
Classic Italian restaurant with great atmosphere. Note: only open for dinner!
Modern Italian restaurant with pasta, pizza, and other great options. Seowon recommends the carbonara. A reservation is highly recommended.
High end supper-club style restaurant offering exceptional food. Our favorite is their signature Lake Superior Walleye served with spaetzle and a creamy horseradish sauce. We highly recommend it! Also, the pavlova for dessert is a must try.
Classic local steakhouse with an old-school vibe.
Delicious Turkish food! We really enjoyed both the lamb and adana (beef) kebabs, along with their appetizer plate (with hummus, babganoush, ezme, and haydari).
Great restaurant for fast-casual Mediterranean food. We recommend the F-bomb chicken rice bowl (we didn't come up with the name!), which gives you chicken shawarma, falafel, majadra rice, chopped salad, and hummus.
Our most frequented pizza place in Madison. A local chain offering a variety of specialty pizzas. We really enjoy the Hawaii Pie-O (Hawaiian style pizza with additional fun toppings) - don't judge us, pineapple haters!
Iconic pizza chain offering pizza by the slice with many creative topping combinations. Great for late night pizza cravings - we highly recommend the BBQ chicken pizza with a side of their store-made ranch. Absolutely divine combo.
Downtown brunch restaurant with great omelettes and other classic breakfast foods!
Cute brunch spot with all the classics and more, as well as vegan/vegetarian options. Seowon really likes the Speedy Eggwich!
This is the coffee shop that John has visited the most in Madison - it's really good! They also have delicious breakfast/lunch options. You can't go wrong!
Cozy downtown coffee shop with a unique vibe (as well as panini sandwiches and baked goods). Features a variety of unique latte flavor combinations. Seowon's favorite is the Monkey Mocha (featuring banana and chocolate), and John's is the Rehab Mocha (with Amaretto, Irish Cream, and chocolate).
Great Milwaukee-based coffee chain offering coffee and breakfast fare all day (or at least until 6pm). Yummy coffee, pastries, and breakfast burritos/sandwiches. If you're in the mood, we recommend you try their Famous Chorizo breakfast burrito and/or Chocolate Croissant!
Our favorite cocktail bar in Madison! The espresso martini is a must try, but you really can't go wrong with anything on their menu. They also have a collection of mocktails too!
Cozy beer bar with a large selection of draft beers.
Gin-focused bar serving delicious cocktails along with some great appetizers and entrees.