Saturday Morning 7am-1pm The Dane County Farmer’s Market is one of our favorite weekend activities. The DCFM is the country’s largest producer-only farmer's market, and is a must-do for anyone visiting from out of town. Be sure to go early, buy a pastry from Stella’s bakery, and grab a coffee from Michelangelo’s on State Street to complete the morning.
This Madison staple is a wonderful place to grab a beer and a bite to eat while sitting by the lake front and watching the sunset. Sometimes you’ll be able to catch a local band or a movie showing on the stage by the water. It isn’t a trip to the terrace without a scoop of Orange Custard Chocolate Chip from Daily Scoop! We recommend parking in the Helen C White garage or the State Street Campus - Lake Street garage.
This free botanical gardens is a great place to take a relaxing stroll. You can’t miss the Thai pavilion, which is covered in real gold. Afterward, head across the street to the Olbrich Biergarten for a beer and a snack next to Lake Monona.
This expansive art museum has a little bit of everything. Located right on campus, you’ll find rotating exhibits and even a coffee shop inside. Plus it's free!
If you have several spare hours on a nice day, we highly recommend the 45 minute drive to Devil’s Lake for kayaking, hiking, swimming, a picnic, or even paddle boating. The North Shore has a nice concession stand, and is where you can find boat rentals. Hiking up the bluffs gives you some amazing views. There is an entrance fee of $13 per car.
The Henry Vilas zoo is open year-round and free for visitors. The Vilas Park right next door is one of our favorite parks in Madison and is a great picnic spot if weather permits.
An outdoor shopping area on the West side of town. Here you’ll find some great restaurants, lots of shopping, and even Target. Sarra recommends Cafe Hollander for food.
Lucille is Sarra and Tyler’s favorite date-night restaurant! This is not your traditional pizza restaurant, instead serving up fun twists with Wisconsin toppings like corn or cheese curds. Lucille is right off the Capitol square and is a great place for dinner and drinks. Sarra’s favorite is the brunch pizza on the weekends, while Tyler loves a pepperoni jalapeño pizza.