Location: Madison
Top Things to do in Madison
The 7 Best Hidden Gems Things to do in Madison, Wisconsin (WI)
The sprawling University of Wisconsin sets the tone for this college town of cafes, bookstores, brewpubs, numerous restaurants (more per capita than anywhere else in the U.S.) and a good share of cultural and historical attractions. Stunning glacial waterways make the City of Lakes one of the more picturesque state capitals in the country. More than 250 parks offer residents and tourists plenty of recreational areas to choose from. If you visit the campus, be sure to try the famous Babcock Ice Cream at Memorial Union or Babcock Hall, before or after a visit to the Elvehjem Museum of Art's collection of Greek, Roman and Egyptian antiquities. And to really get into the college spirit, head over to State Street's eclectic range of ethnic restaurants. Be sure to try the mouth-watering bratwurst sandwich on a homemade bun at State Street Brats, a student favorite. At the end of State Street, the white granite, Roman Renaissance-style Capitol dominates the skyline and offers an observation platform for views of the city and lakes.
Restaurants in Madison
1. Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,636 reviews
One of Madison's most popular attractions, this oasis of green includes a sunken garden, perennial garden, rose garden, rock garden, herb garden, wildflower garden and a tropical conservatory.
Reviewed By Valedia - McHenry, United States
Some friends and I try to meet up somewhere every fall. This year I read about and picked this spot as Madison is a halfway point for all. I was absolutely amazed at this gem - free parking, free access to the outdoor areas and only $2.00 to explore the indoor conservatory. The volunteers greeted us when we walked into the conservatory, and one went so far as to walk us around and point out all the different areas so that we wouldn't miss any of it. There is a gift shop that is stocked with seeds, bulbs, cards that can be planted, clothing and much, much more. The conservatory has lush plants, trees, ferns, a koi pond and other water features. After exploring inside we went out and walked all of the different paths and areas that were very well maintained, and a true sensory treat! Photography is a hobby of mine, and I came home with almost 60 pictures and could easily have taken more. We are looking forward to meeting up again in other seasons. If you are in the Madison area, do yourself a favor and take the time to enjoy this wonderful place!
2. Wingra Boats
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 38 reviews
Up-North Beauty in downtown Madison. Surrounded by nature this quiet lake is a mecca for paddling and the perfect place for the whole family to SUP, kayak, canoe, row, or paddle boat. Fish, paddle and play! Wingra Lake is a motor-free lake that is surrounded by the UW Arboretum. Wingra Boats makes getting out on the water with friends, family or by yourself easy and fun.
3. Allen Centennial Gardens
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 103 reviews
Located on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, these public gardens serve as outdoor classrooms in the study and research of plant identification, ecology and site management techniques in horticulture.
4. Capital City Food Tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 99 reviews
Explore the city of Madison through food that proves we are more than just beer, cheese, and brats (although we are experts at those too). Perfect for all types, our walking food tours appeal to your taste buds and your mind. Enjoy the afternoon or evening sampling local favorites and delving into the history and culture of the beautiful city we call home! Check our our website for all current tour availabilities, prices, and details.
5. University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 236 reviews
Considered the birthplace of ecological restoration, the UW–Madison Arboretum is a teaching and research facility that conserves and restores land, advances science, offers public outreach, and benefits from community involvement. The 1,200-acre grounds are home to protected prairies, woodlands, wetlands, savannas, springs, shoreline, a notable horticultural collection, and Wisconsin native plant gardens. It also offers 20 miles of walking trails and 4 miles of biking road as well as hundreds of learning and volunteer opportunities. The Arboretum is located between Lake Wingra and the West Beltline Highway. The main entrance is at 1207 Seminole Highway. The Visitor Center is open weekdays from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., weekends from 12:30 to 4 p.m. Arboretum admission is free.
Reviewed By NEM1234 - Madison, United States
This arboretum is huge with lots of blue birds, wild turkeys and even deer! Every season is great with all the color and scents you expect. There are plenty of ponds, hiking trails and the visitor center is very helpful. Depending on the season you pick, you can spend hours here exploring. I especially enjoyed the board walk and the bird watching. Admission and parking is free, however it does get limited on the weekends sometimes. Bring your hiking shoes, your walking stick, your camera and enjoy the outdoors!
6. Aldo Leopold Nature Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 42 reviews
Reviewed By AndrewFromMadison - Madison, United States
This nature center is not like other ones - yes, the mounted butterfly displays are here, and so are some other natural artifacts and displays you can see elsewhere. But the center also has scientific angle, with tons of interactive displays and wealth of science facts and info. This is a great place to visit with kids, to get them on the path of caring for the planet. And like traditional nature centers - it has trails and nature paths through the woods and wetlands and prairies - of course!
7. Historic Architecture Tours
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 23 reviews
Every June through September, the Madison Trust for Historic Preservation hosts a series of historic architecture walking tours. Hundreds of Madison residents and visitors attend to learn about Madison's historic neighborhoods and commercial districts. Please see our website for details on tours & to buy tickets. Cost: Tours are $10 for adults, $5 for students, and free for Madison Trust members! Registration is required. Weather: We will be there, rain or shine! What to wear: Dress for the weather, and make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as tours require standing and walking for up to 90 minutes at a time. Private tours: Private tours can be arranged by contacting the Madison Trust office. Cost for groups of 1-10 people is $20 per person, and cost for groups of 11 or more is $15 per person. Please be aware, bathroom facilities are not available on the walking tours.
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