Madison, Dane County, WI
Curated, ready-to-follow plans for getting out and doing something memorable this week.
Explore downtown Madison without breaking the bank. Discover state history at the free Wisconsin Veterans Museum on Capitol Square, sit down for a scratch-made breakfast at Marigold Kitchen, and finish with a quiet stroll along the Lake Mendota shoreline.
Spend a tranquil Madison afternoon immersing yourself in the diverse ecosystems of the UW Arboretum, a signature local experience. Fuel up beforehand with a comforting lunch, then unwind with a beautiful lakeside walk to round out your day.
Start your day with an educational and completely free tour of Madison's iconic State Capitol building, admiring its grand architecture and learning about local history. Afterward, walk over to Marigold Kitchen for a delicious, budget-friendly breakfast or brunch, perfect for fueling up. Conclude with a relaxed stroll along State Street, browsing the unique shops as they open.
Start your morning with an engaging visit to the Geology Museum, where kids can marvel at dinosaurs and glowing rocks. Afterward, enjoy a casual breakfast at a family-friendly cafe. Wrap up the morning with some outdoor play at a nearby park, perfect for burning off energy.
Indulge in an afternoon of art at the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, appreciating the modern exhibits. Follow it with a romantic dinner at a farm-to-fork Italian restaurant, known for its exquisite pasta and wine. Conclude your date with a leisurely walk, enjoying the downtown atmosphere.
Begin your afternoon date with a delicious meal before immersing yourselves in the serene landscapes of the University of Wisconsin–Madison Arboretum. Wander through diverse ecological communities, then transition to an elegant evening with a gourmet dinner at a celebrated local restaurant.
Start your Madison evening with cocktails near the historic Orpheum Theater before catching a live performance. After the show, enjoy a sophisticated dinner with views of the Capitol, making for a memorable date night downtown.
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the UW-Madison Arboretum, taking a refreshing walk through diverse habitats. Recharge with a casual meal at a local cafe, then enjoy a scenic lakeside view for a tranquil afternoon.
Bring the family for an exciting afternoon exploring the free Henry Vilas Zoo, seeing animals up close. Afterward, enjoy a casual, kid-friendly meal nearby, concluding with some playtime at a scenic park.