Isabel & Joseph
Things to Do and Places to Eat
Dane County Farmers Market
One of the reasons we love Madison so much is how Wisconsinites really take advantage of every non-winter month. On Saturday mornings, local farmers and other vendors take over the streets surrounding the capital for the weekly farmer's market. You can find delicious scones, taste Wisconsin cheeses, eat fresh plums and apples and even do yoga on the capitol lawn! If you are in town Saturday morning, you shouldn't miss taking part of this Madison tradition.
Henry Vilas Zoo
If you have kids (and even if you don't) you'll have so much fun at the Henry Vilas Zoo. This zoo is AZA-accredited, very walkable, and best of all free! (Parking is free and easy too!) There is a small restaurant inside the zoo with things like chicken tenders and hotdogs and a place to get coffee and ice cream. This zoo includes a primate house and a herpetarium (reptiles and amphibians!). They of course have badgers (the state animal) but Izzy's favorite are the polar bears!
Memorial Union Terrace
The Terrace is a beautiful place to sit by the lake and hang out. They often have live music, movie nights, and stands to buy food, ice cream, and drinks. There is a nearby parking garage and street parking.
Wingra Boats
Rent Kayaks or paddle boards and hang out on a beautiful Madison lake.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Beautiful outdoor grounds you can explore for free! Great place for kids to get out their energy from long plane or car rides. Also great for pictures. The indoor tropical experience is nice but small and costs $6/person.
James Madison Park
Beautiful park on the Lake near downtown Madison. Have a picnic, sunbathe, or play on the playground. You can walk to the capital afterwords or downtown for lunch or dinner.
Madison Sourdough
Joey's favorite breakfast place. Street parking only. They have outdoor/indoor seating and THE BEST fresh bread. It's no secret how good this place is so get there early!
Lucille's
Great place for Lunch or Dinner! Good views of the Capital and yummy pizza.
Settle Down Tavern
Our favorite burgers in Downtown Madison! And they have a yummy and unique drink selection. You HAVE to try the ghost pepper french fries!
Salvatore's Tomato Pies
Best Pizza in Madison! The first restaurant we went to when we moved here! They have multiple locations but the Livingston restaurant has a more upscale menu with more than just pizza. Our favorite pie is the Woodsman!