Introduction
What to do
Where to eat
When to visit
How to get there
Where to stay
Renting a car
Local costs

Madison travel guide

Madison Tourism | Madison Guide

You're Going to Love Madison

Wisconsin's capital is an intellectual center, a thriving foodie destination, and simply an appealing, relaxed, and enjoyable place to spend some time.

Article

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Madison

1. It's Food Heaven

Madison has become on of the finest gastronomic destinations in the lower 48, offering great farmers markets, microbreweries like Karben4, and superb restaurants like Harvest or L'Etoile.

2. The Gorgeous Lakefront Location

Madison is squeezed in between two beautiful lakes, where you can rent kayaks or canoes, take control of a sailing boat, or fish for northern pike or walleye until the sun sets.

3. There Are Some Excellent Museums

Madison isn't short on museums and galleries either. Standouts include the Chazen Museum of Art, with its Dutch Masters, and the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art.

4. Tour the Wisconsin State Capitol

Wisconsin has a fascinating history, and you can find out all about it by taking tours of the elegant State Capitol building, with its iconic domed roof.

5. An Year-Round Festival Program

Madison hosts an endless parade of festivals, from the culinary delights of Taste of Madison to the WI Film Festival and the Atwood Music Festival.

1. It's Food Heaven

Madison has become on of the finest gastronomic destinations in the lower 48, offering great farmers markets, microbreweries like Karben4, and superb restaurants like Harvest or L'Etoile.

2. The Gorgeous Lakefront Location

Madison is squeezed in between two beautiful lakes, where you can rent kayaks or canoes, take control of a sailing boat, or fish for northern pike or walleye until the sun sets.

3. There Are Some Excellent Museums

Madison isn't short on museums and galleries either. Standouts include the Chazen Museum of Art, with its Dutch Masters, and the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art.

4. Tour the Wisconsin State Capitol

Wisconsin has a fascinating history, and you can find out all about it by taking tours of the elegant State Capitol building, with its iconic domed roof.

5. An Year-Round Festival Program

Madison hosts an endless parade of festivals, from the culinary delights of Taste of Madison to the WI Film Festival and the Atwood Music Festival.

What to do in Madison

1. Wisconsin State Capitol: The Beauty of Democracy

Wisconsin's third State Capitol building is almost certainly its most beautiful. Located on the isthmus between Lakes Mendota and Monona, the Capitol was opened in 1917 and still reigns supreme as the city's tallest building. Inside, politics buffs will find a treasure trove of sights and stories. See the bust of Progressive hero Robert M. LaFollette, a series of stunning mosaic murals by Kenyon Cox and the breathtaking ceiling of the Capitol Rotunda, and get to the heart of the state's political action.

2. Taliesin: An Architectural Adventure

One of the world's most famous works of private architecture, Taliesin was designed by American icon Frank Lloyd Wright as his home, studio, and school for aspiring followers. Set in an 800 acre estate, the modernist house still feels groundbreaking and fresh. But the estate as a whole repays exploration, with other Wright-designed masterpieces like the Midway Barn, the Drafting Studio and the Hillside Theater. Start at the Visitor Center and explore, or join fascinating tours that tell you all you need to know about the great man's powerful legacy.

3. Madison Museum of Contemporary Art: A Thrilling Showcase of Creativity

Stepping from world-class architecture to dazzling contemporary art is easy in Madison. The Madison Museum on State Street (MMoCA for short) is a Downtown marvel, housing a 5,000 strong permanent collection featuring stellar works by American masters like Philip Guston, Joan Brown, and Ed Paschke. But the temporary exhibitions are the star, with cutting edge multimedia installations from today's hottest artists. Attend regular talks on the collection, make a date to catch a movie at the Rooftop Cinema, and round off your visit by dining at Fresco, the gallery's gourmet restaurant.

4. Monona Terrace: Frank Lloyd Wright's Lakefront Masterpiece

Stretching along the waterfront of Lake Monona, this row of buildings is one of Frank Lloyd Wright's finest creations. A stone's throw away from the State Capitol, this Art Deco complex wasn't actually built during Wright's lifetime. Instead, it was resurrected by a far-sighted mayor, opening first in 1997. Now, it's one of the most striking conference centers in the world - and much more than a business venue. It hosts markets, events like Ironman Wisconsin and has a fantastic rooftop cafe. If you can get out on the water, it's best seen from the lake, where you get a great sense of Wright's vision.

5. Olbrich Botanical Gardens: A Fabulous Floral Delight

Located on the northern shores of Lake Monona (and offering fine views of Downtown Madison), the Olbrich Botanical Gardens are a gorgeous place to spend time. You'll discover 16 acres of colorful Midwest flowers, as well as exotic collections in the Thai Pavilion, heady aromas in the Rose Garden, and tropical delights in the Bolz Conservatory. If you have the chance, try to schedule a visit during the summer concert series, when the Great Lawn becomes a magical music venue.

1. Wisconsin State Capitol: The Beauty of Democracy

Wisconsin's third State Capitol building is almost certainly its most beautiful. Located on the isthmus between Lakes Mendota and Monona, the Capitol was opened in 1917 and still reigns supreme as the city's tallest building. Inside, politics buffs will find a treasure trove of sights and stories. See the bust of Progressive hero Robert M. LaFollette, a series of stunning mosaic murals by Kenyon Cox and the breathtaking ceiling of the Capitol Rotunda, and get to the heart of the state's political action.

2. Taliesin: An Architectural Adventure

One of the world's most famous works of private architecture, Taliesin was designed by American icon Frank Lloyd Wright as his home, studio, and school for aspiring followers. Set in an 800 acre estate, the modernist house still feels groundbreaking and fresh. But the estate as a whole repays exploration, with other Wright-designed masterpieces like the Midway Barn, the Drafting Studio and the Hillside Theater. Start at the Visitor Center and explore, or join fascinating tours that tell you all you need to know about the great man's powerful legacy.

3. Madison Museum of Contemporary Art: A Thrilling Showcase of Creativity

Stepping from world-class architecture to dazzling contemporary art is easy in Madison. The Madison Museum on State Street (MMoCA for short) is a Downtown marvel, housing a 5,000 strong permanent collection featuring stellar works by American masters like Philip Guston, Joan Brown, and Ed Paschke. But the temporary exhibitions are the star, with cutting edge multimedia installations from today's hottest artists. Attend regular talks on the collection, make a date to catch a movie at the Rooftop Cinema, and round off your visit by dining at Fresco, the gallery's gourmet restaurant.

4. Monona Terrace: Frank Lloyd Wright's Lakefront Masterpiece

Stretching along the waterfront of Lake Monona, this row of buildings is one of Frank Lloyd Wright's finest creations. A stone's throw away from the State Capitol, this Art Deco complex wasn't actually built during Wright's lifetime. Instead, it was resurrected by a far-sighted mayor, opening first in 1997. Now, it's one of the most striking conference centers in the world - and much more than a business venue. It hosts markets, events like Ironman Wisconsin and has a fantastic rooftop cafe. If you can get out on the water, it's best seen from the lake, where you get a great sense of Wright's vision.

5. Olbrich Botanical Gardens: A Fabulous Floral Delight

Located on the northern shores of Lake Monona (and offering fine views of Downtown Madison), the Olbrich Botanical Gardens are a gorgeous place to spend time. You'll discover 16 acres of colorful Midwest flowers, as well as exotic collections in the Thai Pavilion, heady aromas in the Rose Garden, and tropical delights in the Bolz Conservatory. If you have the chance, try to schedule a visit during the summer concert series, when the Great Lawn becomes a magical music venue.

1. Wisconsin State Capitol: The Beauty of Democracy

Wisconsin's third State Capitol building is almost certainly its most beautiful. Located on the isthmus between Lakes Mendota and Monona, the Capitol was opened in 1917 and still reigns supreme as the city's tallest building. Inside, politics buffs will find a treasure trove of sights and stories. See the bust of Progressive hero Robert M. LaFollette, a series of stunning mosaic murals by Kenyon Cox and the breathtaking ceiling of the Capitol Rotunda, and get to the heart of the state's political action.

2. Taliesin: An Architectural Adventure

One of the world's most famous works of private architecture, Taliesin was designed by American icon Frank Lloyd Wright as his home, studio, and school for aspiring followers. Set in an 800 acre estate, the modernist house still feels groundbreaking and fresh. But the estate as a whole repays exploration, with other Wright-designed masterpieces like the Midway Barn, the Drafting Studio and the Hillside Theater. Start at the Visitor Center and explore, or join fascinating tours that tell you all you need to know about the great man's powerful legacy.

3. Madison Museum of Contemporary Art: A Thrilling Showcase of Creativity

Stepping from world-class architecture to dazzling contemporary art is easy in Madison. The Madison Museum on State Street (MMoCA for short) is a Downtown marvel, housing a 5,000 strong permanent collection featuring stellar works by American masters like Philip Guston, Joan Brown, and Ed Paschke. But the temporary exhibitions are the star, with cutting edge multimedia installations from today's hottest artists. Attend regular talks on the collection, make a date to catch a movie at the Rooftop Cinema, and round off your visit by dining at Fresco, the gallery's gourmet restaurant.

4. Monona Terrace: Frank Lloyd Wright's Lakefront Masterpiece

Stretching along the waterfront of Lake Monona, this row of buildings is one of Frank Lloyd Wright's finest creations. A stone's throw away from the State Capitol, this Art Deco complex wasn't actually built during Wright's lifetime. Instead, it was resurrected by a far-sighted mayor, opening first in 1997. Now, it's one of the most striking conference centers in the world - and much more than a business venue. It hosts markets, events like Ironman Wisconsin and has a fantastic rooftop cafe. If you can get out on the water, it's best seen from the lake, where you get a great sense of Wright's vision.

5. Olbrich Botanical Gardens: A Fabulous Floral Delight

Located on the northern shores of Lake Monona (and offering fine views of Downtown Madison), the Olbrich Botanical Gardens are a gorgeous place to spend time. You'll discover 16 acres of colorful Midwest flowers, as well as exotic collections in the Thai Pavilion, heady aromas in the Rose Garden, and tropical delights in the Bolz Conservatory. If you have the chance, try to schedule a visit during the summer concert series, when the Great Lawn becomes a magical music venue.

Where to Eat in Madison

There are numerous elite restaurants in town, but highlights include the Old Fashioned, a down-to-earth tavern and restaurant; L'Etoile, a gourmet modern American eatery; and Harvest Restaurant, which specializes in using Wisconsin's fresh produce. Meals prices vary, but a good meal will cost around $25 per head.

When to visit Madison

Madison in January
Estimated hotel price
C$ 163
1 night at 3-star hotel
Madison in January
Estimated hotel price
C$ 163
1 night at 3-star hotel

Summer is the best time to visit Madison. It's festival season, the lakes are at their most inviting, and the town just feels laid-back and ready to welcome visitors.

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Temperatures
Temperatures
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How to Get to Madison

Plane

Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) has connections to plenty of US cities. From there you can take Bus 20 into town for $2. Taxis will cost around $30.

Train

Amtrak's Empire Builder service stops at Columbus, just a few miles north of Madison.

Car

If you are coming from Chicago or Milwaukee, take I-90 to Madison. Those driving from the east or west can take I-80, then change in Chicago.

Bus

Bus services into Madison are provided by Greyhound, Megabus, Badger Bus, Van Galder, and Lamers.

Plane

Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) has connections to plenty of US cities. From there you can take Bus 20 into town for $2. Taxis will cost around $30.

Train

Amtrak's Empire Builder service stops at Columbus, just a few miles north of Madison.

Car

If you are coming from Chicago or Milwaukee, take I-90 to Madison. Those driving from the east or west can take I-80, then change in Chicago.

Bus

Bus services into Madison are provided by Greyhound, Megabus, Badger Bus, Van Galder, and Lamers.

Airports near Madison

ATWAppleton Intl
MKEMilwaukee-Mitchell
MSNMadison Truax Field

Airlines serving Madison

Lufthansa
Good (7,044 reviews)
KLM
Good (1,334 reviews)
British Airways
Good (6,836 reviews)
Delta
Excellent (7,935 reviews)
Iberia
Good (2,698 reviews)
Air France
Good (1,446 reviews)
United Airlines
Good (8,696 reviews)
Emirates
Excellent (3,215 reviews)
Qatar Airways
Good (3,563 reviews)
Air Canada
Good (9,243 reviews)
Scandinavian Airlines
Good (1,349 reviews)
Finnair
Good (1,275 reviews)
Alaska Airlines
Excellent (9,967 reviews)
JetBlue
Good (2,922 reviews)
Aer Lingus
Good (1,076 reviews)
Spirit Airlines
Good (7,961 reviews)
Frontier
Okay (3,287 reviews)
Avianca
Good (2,317 reviews)
ANA
Excellent (851 reviews)
Japan Airlines
Excellent (1,459 reviews)
Show more

Where to stay in Madison

Capitol - Madison's downtown center, Capitol is the place to go for historical attractions and museums like the Chazen or the Madison Children's Museum and also hosts the city's huge farmers market.

Popular Neighborhoods in Madison

Greenbush - southwest of the city center, Greenbush hosts the Henry Vilas Zoo and is also a great place to rent boats for activities on Lake Monona.

Dudgeon-Monroe - one of the safest, most affluent parts of town, Dudgeon-Monroe is home to some of Madison's finest restaurants, including Pizza Brutta and Brasserie V.

Greenbush - southwest of the city center, Greenbush hosts the Henry Vilas Zoo and is also a great place to rent boats for activities on Lake Monona.
Dudgeon-Monroe - one of the safest, most affluent parts of town, Dudgeon-Monroe is home to some of Madison's finest restaurants, including Pizza Brutta and Brasserie V.

Where to stay in popular areas of Madison

Most booked hotels in Madison

See all
Residence Inn by Marriott Madison West/Middleton
3 stars
Excellent (9.2, Excellent reviews)
C$ 179+
View
Hampton Inn & Suites Madison/Downtown
3 stars
Excellent (9.1, Excellent reviews)
C$ 216+
View
Best Western Premier Park Hotel
3 stars
Excellent (9.1, Excellent reviews)
C$ 199+
View
The Edgewater
4 stars
Excellent (9, Excellent reviews)
C$ 339+
View
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Madison West/Middleton
2 stars
Excellent (8.9, Excellent reviews)
C$ 116+
View
The Madison Concourse Hotel
3 stars
Excellent (8.8, Excellent reviews)
C$ 238+
View

How to Get Around Madison

Public Transportation

Madison's bus network covers the whole city pretty well, and with single tickets costing $2, it's a cheap way to get around.

Taxi

When you take taxis in Madison, expect to pay a meter drop of $4, followed by around $3 per mile.

Car

Local car rental outlets include Enterprise and Budget, and rates can be as low as $10 per day.

Public Transportation

Madison's bus network covers the whole city pretty well, and with single tickets costing $2, it's a cheap way to get around.

Taxi

When you take taxis in Madison, expect to pay a meter drop of $4, followed by around $3 per mile.

Car

Local car rental outlets include Enterprise and Budget, and rates can be as low as $10 per day.

Best car rental deals in Madison

Supplier choice

5 adults, 5 Bags

C$ 49/day

Supplier choice

Economy

2 adults, 2 Bags

C$ 55/day

Economy
Find car rentals in Madison

The Cost of Living in Madison

Shopping Streets

Madison has a few excellent family malls, including Hilldale and East Towne Mall, and you'll find plenty of independent stores around Capitol Square.

Groceries and Other

Supermarkets include Festival Foods and Trader Joe's, and you can expect to spend around $1.60 on 12 eggs, so it's a cheap place to shop.

Cheap meal
C$ 16.61
A pair of jeans
C$ 63.25
Single public transport ticket
C$ 2.77
Cappuccino
C$ 4.82

Everything you need to know for your stay in Madison

Madison Travel Guide - View the KAYAK Madison city guide for the best Madison travel tips. To help you organize your Madison trip ideas, this Madison visitors guide provides travel information and trip tips about how to get there, where to stay, what to do, where to eat and more.