Madison Minutes' Free Guide To the Best of Madison
Madison has no shortage of hidden gems, from places to grab an after-work bite to scenic bike paths. Our city has an overwhelming array of things to learn, places to go, and foods to try. So what are the best of the best? The City Cast Madison team put together our ultimate guide to getting the most out of life in Mad Town.
An illustrated map of Madison, WI. (City Cast)
- Eat at a true Wisconsin supper club like Toby’s, Maple Tree, or The Tornado Room
- Do a patio-season crawl to make the most of summer
- Buy fee-free tickets when purchased in person at their box office at some of the best local venues like Majestic Theatre, The Sylvee, Orpheum Theatre
- Bike the iconic Lake Monona loop featuring gorgeous prairies and lots of wildlife
- Want something shorter? Enjoy the six-mile Wingra Lake Loop through the UW Arboretum
Sunset over Lake Monona. (goodfreephotos.com)
- Shop local to get the freshest produce at the Dane County Farmers’ Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout the year
- Taste some of the best cheeses in the world (yes, the world!) at Landmark Creamery
- Go to Sessions at McPike Park or one of the many iconic outdoor summer music festivals on the isthmus
- Get to know the best (and worst) times to visit Madison’s beaches
- Find your new favorite cocktail at Lola’s, The Robin Room, or One & Only (or see our list of Madison’s best dive bars)
- Prefer a mocktail? See our full list of the bars for non-drinkers
Lola's Hi/Lo Lounge. (City Cast)
- Don’t get caught throwing that plastic bag in the wrong bin: Learn the do’s and don’t of recycling
- Lose your money and have a fun time doing it by playing pull-tabs (plus, discover the history of the pastime)
- Take a local cooking class at the Willy Street Co-op to become an expert at-home chef
- Attend a Forward Madison FC or Madison Capitols game (plus, check out Madison’s professional women’s teams)
- Take advantage of all of the perks your library card offers
- And if you’re tired of the city, visit one of the many State Parks surrounding Madison, all within driving distance
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