Greater Madison Area Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally beautiful Greater Madison Area with this comprehensive travel guide. Find out about the best places to stay, things to do, food and drink, and much more.


Introduction to Greater Madison Area

Situated in Southwest Wisconsin, the Greater Madison Area is a cultural hub of the Midwest. Known for its vibrant arts scene, history, and natural beauty, there’s plenty to be explored in this region. The state capital, Madison, is a bustling college town and a must-visit for those who love history, architecture, and good food.

List of Places to Visit in Greater Madison Area

Here are some of the best places to visit in Greater Madison Area:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Wisconsin State Capitol: This majestic building is a symbol of Wisconsin’s political history and features stunning architecture and design.
  • Olbrich Botanical Gardens: Take a stroll in these stunning gardens and enjoy the beauty of nature.
  • Chazen Museum of Art: Get your fill of arts and culture at this free museum with a collection of over 20,000 objects.
  • Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin: Marvel at the architectural genius of Frank Lloyd Wright at his iconic Taliesin home and studio.

Natural Attractions of Greater Madison Area: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Devil’s Lake State Park: This park is a great place for hiking, camping, and scenic views of the lake and surrounding rock formations.
  • Henry Vilas Zoo: Take a break from the city and get up close with nature at this free zoo, home to over 800 animals.
  • Governor Nelson State Park: Enjoy the outdoors with hiking and biking trails, beaches, and picnic spots at this peaceful park.
  • Olbrich Park: A hidden gem in Madison, this park offers stunning views of Lake Monona and a great place for swimming, boating, and picnicking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Greater Madison Area

The Greater Madison Area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the area:

  • Capital City State Trail: This 17-mile trail connects the suburbs of Fitchburg and Middleton and offers scenic views and a great workout.
  • Ice Age Trail: This 1,200-mile trail spans across the state of Wisconsin and offers some of the most stunning views in the region.
  • Military Ridge State Trail: This 40-mile trail connects Dodgeville and Madison and is great for both hiking and biking.
  • Pheasant Branch Conservancy: This beautiful park offers a variety of trails for hiking and biking, with stunning views of nature and wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Greater Madison Area: Activities and Tours

From food tours to kayaking adventures, the Greater Madison Area has a lot to offer. Here are some of the top things to do in the area:

  • Wisconsin Brewing Company Tour: Learn how beer is made at this local brewery and enjoy delicious brews.
  • Madison Eats Food Tours: Get a taste of Madison’s culinary scene with this fun and informative food tour.
  • Wisconsin Boat Rentals: Explore the beautiful lakes of the Greater Madison Area with a rented boat or kayak.
  • Olbrich Botanical Gardens Tour: Take a guided tour of these stunning gardens and learn about the various plants and flowers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Greater Madison Area

Here’s a week-long itinerary to help you plan your trip to the Greater Madison Area:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Wisconsin State Capitol and downtown Madison.
Day 2 Take a hike in Devil’s Lake State Park and enjoy the beautiful views.
Day 3 Go on a food tour and taste the best of Madison’s culinary scene.
Day 4 Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin and take a tour of his iconic home and studio.
Day 5 Spend a day at Olbrich Botanical Gardens and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Day 6 Rent a boat or kayak and explore the lakes of the Greater Madison Area.
Day 7 Relax and enjoy a day at one of the many parks in the area.

Food and Drink Scene of Greater Madison Area

The Greater Madison Area is known for its diverse food scene and local craft breweries. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cheese curds: No trip to Wisconsin is complete without a taste of these delicious fried cheese curds.
  • Bratwurst: Wisconsin is known for its love of bratwursts, and you can find them in many local restaurants and bars.
  • Fish fry: This Friday night tradition is a must-try in the Greater Madison Area, featuring delicious battered fish and sides.

Local Beverages

  • Spotted Cow: This popular beer from New Glarus Brewing Company can only be found in Wisconsin and is a hit among locals and visitors alike.
  • Old Fashioned: Wisconsin’s take on this classic cocktail is a mix of brandy, soda, and muddled cherries and oranges.
  • Sprecher Root Beer: This locally brewed root beer is a great non-alcoholic option and can be found in many restaurants and bars around the area.

Where to Stay in Greater Madison Area: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The Greater Madison Area offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and tastes. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • The Edgewater: This luxurious hotel offers stunning views of Lake Mendota and a host of amenities and activities.
  • HI Madison: Located in the heart of the city, this hostel offers affordable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
  • Mansion Hill Inn: This elegant bed and breakfast is located in a historic mansion and offers a cozy and comfortable stay.

What to Buy in Greater Madison Area: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

The Greater Madison Area is famous for its local products and souvenirs that make for great gifts and mementos. Here are some of the must-buy items:

  • Wisconsin cheese: There’s a reason why Wisconsin is known as the “Cheese State.” Bring home some locally made cheese and enjoy the taste of Wisconsin at home.
  • Beer: Local craft breweries offer a variety of brews that make for great gifts for beer lovers.
  • Local art and crafts: Visit the many art galleries in the area and bring home a piece of local art or craft.

Local Culture and Customs of Greater Madison Area

Wisconsin is known for its friendly and welcoming people, and the Greater Madison Area is no exception. Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting the area:

  • Greetings: It’s common to greet people with a smile and a handshake or hug, depending on your relationship with them.
  • Tipping: It’s customary to tip around 15-20% at restaurants and bars.
  • Respect local events: The Greater Madison Area hosts many local events and festivals throughout the year. Respect the local culture and traditions during these events.

Best Time to Visit Greater Madison Area

The Greater Madison Area is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests and preferences. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Spring (March-May): The weather is mild, and the flowers are blooming. It’s a great time for hiking and outdoor activities.
  • Summer (June-August): The weather is warm, and there are many outdoor festivals and events taking place.
  • Fall (September-November): The fall foliage is stunning, and it’s a great time for hiking and scenic drives.
  • Winter (December – February): The region experiences cold winters, but it’s a great time for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Greater Madison Area

Here are some do’s and dont’s when visiting the Greater Madison Area:

Do:

  • Enjoy the local food and drink scene.
  • Explore the beautiful parks and lakes.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places.
  • Be disrespectful to local people and traditions.
  • Ignore the state’s traffic laws.

Safety and Health

Here’s what you need to know about safety and health in the Greater Madison Area:

Safety in Greater Madison Area

The Greater Madison Area is generally safe, but it’s always advisable to take precautions when travelling. Here are some tips:

  • Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
  • Keep your valuables in a safe place and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Follow the state’s traffic laws and avoid distracted driving.

Health in Greater Madison Area

The Greater Madison Area has excellent healthcare facilities and services. Most travellers don’t need any special vaccinations or precautions, but it’s always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before travelling.

Getting to Greater Madison Area: Transportation Options and Logistics

The Greater Madison Area is easily accessible by air, bus, and car. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Greater Madison Area

  • Dane County Regional Airport: This airport is located just five miles from downtown Madison and offers domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Greater Madison Area

  • Greyhound Station: This station is located in the heart of downtown Madison and offers bus services to many destinations.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Renting a car is a convenient way to get around the Greater Madison Area and explore its many attractions.

How to Get Around in Greater Madison Area

The Greater Madison Area has a variety of transportation options, including:

  • Biking: The city has many bike-friendly trails and routes that make it easy to get around on two wheels.
  • Public transportation: The city buses offer affordable and convenient transportation options for getting around the city.
  • Car rental: Renting a car is a great way to explore the Greater Madison Area and its many attractions.

Where to Go Next from Greater Madison Area: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

The Greater Madison Area is surrounded by many beautiful destinations and excursions that are worth exploring. Here are some of the best:

  • Milwaukee: A vibrant city just under two hours away from Madison that’s known for its breweries, museums and festivals.
  • Wisconsin Dells: A popular vacation destination just an hour away from Madison which offers a variety of water parks and outdoor activities.
  • Door County: A scenic peninsula that offers beautiful views of Lake Michigan and a host of outdoor activities.

Conclusion

The Greater Madison Area is an excellent destination for those looking for a mix of culture, history, and outdoor beauty. With its stunning parks, friendly locals, and diverse food and drink scene, you’re sure to have a memorable trip to this fascinating region of Wisconsin.



    Columbus
    Madison
    Portage
    Wisconsin Dells