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The Best Places to Get Tatted in Madison

Posted on July 9, 2024   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Ava Wojnowski

Ava Wojnowski

side by side images of two tattoos, one shows a red and black bird, the other shows a black and white flower in a vase

According to the Pew Research Center, nearly one third of American adults have a tattoo. (Left: Ash Armenta / Lost Lakes Tattoo, Right: Bronywn / Lost Lakes Tattoo)

There’s no shortage of tattoo shops in Madison for anyone looking for some fresh ink. But trying to figure out where to go can be difficult with this many options. Here’s a look at (some) of the various tattoo spots in Madison and their specialties.

525 N. Sherman Ave. | The seven artists at Lost Lakes Tattoo bring a variety of styles to the people of Madison. It is important to the artists that the tattoo is something that they specialize in or are passionate about. Check out each artist’s page to make sure your idea is a good fit. This shop is an appointment only establishment.

6808 University Ave. | If you are looking for a tattoo spot that specializes in fine line tattoos, Pretty in Ink is for you. Along with fine line tattoos, they also do permanent makeup tattoos. The business also won Best Tattoo Shop in the 2023 Madison People’s Choice awards. 6808 University Ave.

931 E. Main St. | This spot is a 50% Native-owned and 100% queer-owned tattoo and arts collective. There are nine different artists specializing in various techniques. The space works hard to make sure clients feel comfortable and safe. Some artists even block off time to give free tattoos to those in the BIPOC community.

2017 Winnebago St. | The six artists at Starkweather Tattoo Collective are bringing their talents together in one space. While they work independently, they work together to learn. Each artist has a speciality of their own, but one is guaranteed to turn your idea into a tattoo.

This tattoo is by Marina, one of our artists at Ultimate Arts Tattoo. (Marina / Ultimate Arts Tattoo)

This tattoo is by Marina, one of our artists at Ultimate Arts Tattoo. (Marina / Ultimate Arts Tattoo)

3236 Commercial Ave. | Ultimate Arts Tattoo has four different artists for folks to choose from. They specialize in creating original works for clients and the establishment has been doing just that since 1988. People travel from all over to check out these artists, so make sure to schedule your appointment soon as it is common to book in advance.

413 E. Washington Ave. | With seven different artists to choose from, Wayward Tattoo is another great place to get ink in Madison. You can email the artist directly with what you are looking for to schedule an appointment and consultations are free. They do not currently take walk-ins.

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