If you’ve never been to the capital city of Wisconsin, it’s time to book your trip! Home to the University of Wisconsin, Madison is a vibrant college town, rich with history and a youthful vibe. Things are finally reopening and the tulips are in bloom!

As the nation’s leading dairy producer, there’s no shortage of cheese, or beer. Some of the best local craft breweries are in the Badger state. The people are friendly and easy going, even if you are a Minnesota Gopher fan, like me. After nearly 15 years of living here, I’ve found plenty of reasons to cheer for this town, except on college game days.

Madison’s picturesque capitol square is the perfect place to start your tour. It’s nestled between Lakes Mendota and Monona, one of only two major U.S. cities built on an isthmus. Once you see the lakes from a distance, you’ll want to find a way to get on the water for the best views of the city.

A foodie destination that practically invented the farm-to-table concept, you really can’t go wrong with any restaurant. Easy to navigate on foot or bike, you’ll want to walk or cycle everywhere. Today, I’m sharing a few of my Madison faves to help make your next visit one to remember.

Eat & Drink

Cooper’s Tavern-Upscale Irish pub serving international selection of beer and wine in a cozy setting. Catch your favorite European soccer here while you sample traditional Irish fare along with contemporary cuisine. My faves are the tomato bisque and grilled cheese.

The Old Fashioned-A Madison institution serving some of the best cheese curds, bloody Mary’s and of course their signature old fashioned cocktails. My other faves here are the Walleye and the Lazy Susans filled with Wisconsin classics.

Osteria Papavero-Cozy, quaint restaurant serving authentic Italian cuisine and extensive wine list. Creative chef’s menu changes daily, offering fresh pasta, seafood, meats and salads. My faves are the fresh pasta, burrata salad, mushroom stew and the famed Budino dessert.

Sardine-Charming French bistro and lively bar in a former warehouse filled with character on Lake Monona. Serving French inspired seasonal farm-to-table entrees and fresh oysters. World class pastry chef creating masterpieces daily. Inventive cocktails. My faves here are the duck confit salad, rock crab shrimp cakes for brunch and the red derby cocktail. Reopening May 19th, after a being closed for over a year.

State Street Brats-A Badger game day tradition not to be missed. Home of the world famous “Red Brat” originally created by a local butcher in the early 50’s. A casual, fun spot to meet with friends any day of the week serving a wide variety of other sports bar specialities.

Tempest Oyster Bar-We love this sleek, stylish seafood restaurant that offers ample indoor and outdoor seating. Serving an inventive menu of fresh seafood, meats and vegan entrees. Expert mixologists on hand to create any cocktail you desire. Save room for dessert. My faves here include the surf and turf combos for value and taste, fish dip appetizer, fresh seafood and pear upside down cake.

Tornado Steakhouse-Old school steakhouse with a rustic supper club vibe serving classic chops, seafood and cocktails. Come hungry for the hearty portions large enough to share. My faves are the shrimp cocktail, steaks, wedge salad and martinis.

Young Blood Beer Company-Wide variety of small batch beers to sample with a whimsical menu of street food and snacks. Highly recommended by a friend who is a craft brew connoisseur.

Play

Capitol Square-Enjoy stunning lake views from multiple locations, as you stroll this quintessential small town. Start in the heart of the city and wander down any street to find an array of shopping, dining or events. Host to farmer’s markets, art fairs, and concerts. The State Capitol is open to the public weekdays from 8am to 6pm. Weekends and holidays from 8am to 4pm. However public tours won’t resume until July 6, 2021. Register for future group tours of 10 or more by contacting Capitol Tours.

Dane County Farmer’s Market-A beloved tradition, inspired by Europe’s open markets, has grown to be recognized as America’s largest producers only farmer’s market. Held on the Capitol Square Saturdays from April until October 6:15am to 1:45pm. Arrive early to discover all the treasures from local artisans to fresh produce and plenty of food stands to tempt your tastebuds!

Memorial Union Terrace-A must for any Madison visitor, the historic Memorial Union Terrace offers some of the best views of Lake Mendota. Soak up the sun as you sit in the iconic sunburst chairs and you sip a local ale, or sample the homemade Babcock Hall ice cream. Don’t forget to snap a photo at the giant sunburst chair with friends and family. The union is now officially open to the public again for all to enjoy! Catch sensational sunsets and live music at night.

University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum-Explore 1,200 acres of protected prairies, woodlands, wetlands and shoreline. Widely recognized as the site of historic research in ecological restoration and conservation. On site teaching and research program began in the early 1930’s. The university restored the existing fields and pastures that were practically barren. Now, because of their efforts, the Arboretum is considered one of Madison’s most scenic spaces. Grounds open year round to visitors from 4am to 10pm, free admission.

Biking & Hiking-Madison’s trail system covers more than 200 miles and has been ranked as one of the top cycling towns in the country. Map out your trip with suggestions from Destination Madison. Rent a bike from one of the following shops: BCycle , Machinery Row Bicycles, or Budget Bicycle Center.

Boat-Explore Madison’s 15,000 acres of lakes by boat or kayak for the best views of the city. Rent one yourself, book a group charter or hop on a public cruise. Here are some of the many options to choose from:

Betty Lou Cruises-Group charters and public cruises on Lakes Mendota and Monona.

Madison Boats-Pontoons, stand up paddle boards, kayaks and canoe rentals.

Skipper Bud’s-Boat rentals, floating docks and water sport accessories.

Shop

Anthology-Creative and crafty stationary, Wisconsin themed gifts and more. Support local artists and get inspired to become one with all the tools you can find here.

August-A boutique with a pulse on the latest fashion. Feeling like splurging on fancy shoes and trendy threads? Then this is the spot for you.

Fromagination-Discover a cheeselover’s paradise, filled with gourmet artisan foods, including my favorite Quince & Apple, to please your palate. Check out our recent feature on the couple behind the brand that sold their first jar of preserves here. Order deluxe deli sandwiches and salads to go for a picnic on the square.

Little Luxuries-A reminder that the best things really do come in small packages. Experience the thrill of gift giving again. You’ll find something for everyone here.

Stay

AC Hotel by Marriott Madison Downtown-Hip new hotel with posh rooms, rooftop bar and restaurant offering amazing capitol views from dawn til dusk. Try the calamari fries and charcuterie plate with award-winning local cheeses. Walking distance to everything on the square. Fitness center and onsite parking.

Edgewater Hotel-Classic, elegant lakefront lodging with roomy suites, fine dining and spa. Charter a boat and a captain through the concierge for the best tour of Madison from the water. Walking distance to Memorial Union and the State Capitol. Valet parking on site.