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The back end of a red Toyota Mk5 Supra.

3 Reasons You Need to Test Drive the 2020 GR Supra

After a 21-year hiatus, the Toyota GR Supra is back and ready to take on all comers. The 2020 GR Supra shares a platform with the BMW Z4 Roadster and packs in some serious power and performance. Whether you're looking for something to zip around town in style or race down the track, the GR Supra is a fully capable sports coupe and one you should definitely test drive. 1. It's a Beauty The 2020 Toyota GR Supra is available in three trim levels: 3.0, 3.0 Premium, and Launch Edition. The coupe has curvy lines and a wide, aggressive stance that make it look mean, yet classy. If you're looking to really turn heads, opt for the GR Supra Launch Edition. Available in a limited availability of only 1,500 units, the Launch Edition features a numbered carbon-fiber dash insert. This limited-edition trim has red mirror caps and rides on unique 19-inch matte-black wheels that are constructed from forged aluminum. Red leather trim encompasses the driver's area, and when combined with the car's carbon fiber accents, it makes for an outstanding interior. 2. It Has a Powerful Engine That Performs The sporty GR Supra is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine. It cranks out 335 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 365-pound feet of torque. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Even with all this power, you'll still get an EPA-estimated mileage of 24 miles per gallon in the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway. The GR Supra has a combined rating of 26 miles per gallon. The powerful engine in the GR Supra is racetrack-ready. The coupe is rear-wheel drive. The low center of gravity paired with the Michelin Pilot Super Sport summer tires provide plenty of grip to take on curvy roads. The electric power steering makes it easy to handle. Adaptive shock absorbers are standard and alternate between normal and sport driving modes, depending on driving conditions. All 2020 GR Supra models come with a free one-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association. This gives you additional benefits such as one complimentary high-performance driving experience and discounted admission to NASA-sanctioned events around the country. 3. It Has a Sporty Interior The interior of the 2020 GR Supra features refined amenities and sporty accents that make it feel both luxurious and aggressive at the same time. There's room for two people and taller drivers will appreciate the extra headroom, courtesy of the double-bubble roof. The 14-way power-adjustable driver's seat also includes side bolsters. The 3.0 Premium and Launch Edition trim levels include leather seats and a head-up display. Standard equipment includes a leather-wrapped steering wheel, power-folding mirrors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, dual automatic climate control, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. A 6.5-inch touch screen display with Bluetooth and iPod capabilities is standard and allows you to access your favorite apps with the touch of a button. Step up to the 3.0 Premium or Launch Edition and the display is 8.8 inches and includes Apple CarPlay integration and navigation. With so many exciting amenities under one roof, there's plenty of reasons why you should test drive the 2020 GR Supra.   “ Mk5 Supra” via Flickr by Jon Meunier. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

John Benson creating an ice sculpture with a chain saw during the Madison Winter Festival.

3 Unique Winter Festivals Around Madison, Wisconsin

When the days are short and cold and the snow begins to fall, celebrate the winter at one of these exciting winter festivals in Madison, Wisconsin. From wintry outdoor sports and magical, flickering lights to creamy, frothy treats, these unique winter festivals in Madison have something for every member of the family to enjoy. 1. Holiday Fantasy in Lights Pack up the kids and take a drive through colorful lights at Holiday Fantasy in Lights, November 10 through January 1. Presented by the Electric Group of IBEW Local 159, this holiday treat features tunnels, sculptures, and displays of flickering lights that are sure to get in you into the holiday spirit. The Electric Group founded this festival in 1989 and uses the skills of local electricians and contractors, along with local resources, to create this magical gift for the city, its citizens, and its visitors. Each year the displays increase in size and there are now more than 15,000 LED bulbs in use. By using LEDs instead of the former incandescent light bulbs, the group has been able to dramatically reduce the overall energy consumption at the event. In addition to the light display, participants can also take part in a 5K run and 2M walk. Be sure to stick around for food, drinks, and live musical entertainment. Holiday Fantasy in Lights will be held at Olin Park. 2. Madison Winter Festival Bring the family out for a day of snowy fun at the Madison Winter Festival. Held February 1-2, 2020, this community festival celebrates winter sports, art, outdoor recreation, and healthy lifestyles. Join in one of the competitions, such as Nordic skiing, snowshoe races, and the fat bike race. Kids will get a kick out of playing in the Activity Corner, where they have snow fort battles, go sledding or cross-country skiing, play a round of mini ice golf, or even paint on ice canvases or a Subaru. Grab some tasty morsels and head to the ice carving demonstrations to be amazed by the sculptures created by talented artists or listen to live music. When night falls, take a candlelit ski tour, then gather around the campfire to warm up with s'mores and hot chocolate. The Madison Winter Festival will be held at Elver Park. 3. Isthmus Beer and Cheese Fest Warm yourself up this winter by sampling local brews and cheeses at the Isthmus Beer and Cheese Fest on January 18. Meet with local cheesemakers and brewers and learn about their craft, then vote for your favorite beer and cheese. Take a seat and enjoy the music at the Piano Fondue Dueling Pianos while you sip on your libations. Take a free shuttle to and from the festival to avoid traffic or ride your bike along one of two major bike paths to the festival: the Wingra Creek Bike Path and Capital City Trail. Isthmus Beer and Cheese Fest will be held at the Alliant Energy Center. Whether you want to don your skis and join the competition or vote for the best brew in town, there's plenty of great winter festivals in Madison, Wisconsin.   “ Fun with a chain saw” via Flickr by John Benson. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

A silver 2020 Toyota Corolla driving down the freeway at night.

Why Are Drivers Loving the All-New 2020 Toyota Corolla?

Toyota has a reputation for being a brand that delivers reliability, safety, and great value. With the new 2020 Toyota Corolla, it meets and surpasses the same high standards as its predecessors. Drivers will the car for its safety, design, and fuel efficiency. Safety Through the years Toyota has received numerous 5-star ratings for their vehicles safety features. The new Corolla has taken some of the existing features and using technology improved upon them. Toyota has incorporated Safety Sense 2.0 into all of their newer models. This utilization of smart tech can make these cars must more reliable in terms of driver safety. These new features include a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Road Edge Detection. Having all of these additional sensors enables the driver to be fully aware of everything in the environment, making correcting for errors even safer. Design The newer, sporty look of the Toyota Corolla will surprise many still expecting the boxy, mid-size economy car. The new Corolla looks poised to take a run on the race track instead of picking up children from soccer practice. The new lower body style has a sharper edge to it, giving it an angular look with an assortment of high-quality paint colors to choose from like Barcelona red and Blue Crush Metallic. High-grade LED headlights come standard also adding to the look of sporty elegance. The interior's design has been tweaked to conform to the driver's comfort and visibility also. Everything the driver needs to keep both hands on the wheel is accessible at the touch of a button on the steering wheel. The seats of cloth trimmed with leather and the additional room in the cabin allows for greater windshield visibility. There is an instrument panel cluster gauge also in front of the driver's seat above the steering wheel which means the driver doesn't have to look too far to find any critical information. Fuel Efficiency Toyota has been a leading brand in consumer value in terms of fuel efficiency for many years. This year is no exception either. No matter which package or trim option you pick with the new Corolla, there's going to be plenty of savings in fuel cost alone. The standard model's efficiency ranges from 26 to 32 MPG and Toyota also offers a hybrid in the new Corolla. The hybrid version gets an impressive 52 to 23 MPG. Just in fuel costs alone, this would be a worthwhile purchase to keep your family from spending too much at the pump as those gas prices increase with inflation. For the new driver buying their first car, or just an upgrade to the older family car, the Toyota Corolla is an excellent choice for anyone because it combines all of the things that makes Toyota successful. The company is dedicated to providing top quality and value. The 2020 Corolla delivers on that promise because of its new safety features, comfort, design,  and overall economical savings with astonishing efficiency. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

A juicy mushroom Swiss burger with thick cut fries.

Best Places to Grab a Burger in Madison, WI

Over the past couple of years, Madison has seriously raised its hamburger game. No longer will you find floppy fries, poorly-cooked patties, or limp lettuce with so much healthy competition and high-quality grub to be found. But what exactly makes a good burger? We searched high and low on the streets of Madison to create the ultimate list of burger joints in town that tick all the boxes for burger lovers on a mission. Dotty Dumpling's Dowry If you're looking for a relaxed and friendly place with a pub atmosphere (and a great selection of local craft beer to boot), head on down to Dotty Dumpling's Dowry. The burgers here are super fresh and made to order, so you can have medium-rare, well done, or however you like it best! And although we're all about the burgers, you simply can't leave Dotty's without trying the cheese curds. We also highly recommend the Heart Throb burger for those who like to spice things up a little. Deliciously juicy, and loaded with Pepper Jack cheese and bacon - a true match made in burger heaven. Come hungry, leave satisfied. Graze We love Graze, not only for its outstanding food but for its ethical and forward-thinking outlook, too. As suggested by the name, grass-fed animals and rotational grazing are championed by this restaurant, which sources pretty much all of its meat, dairy, fruit, and vegetables locally in Wisconsin. A happy cow makes for a very tasty burger. The Double Cheese Smash Burger proved to be just as good as its name promises, and you can even go along with your vegan pals, as Graze is happy to substitute meat for The Impossible burger. So, the local farmer is happy, your vegan friends are happy, and believe us, you will be very happy too. The Old Fashioned You may casually drop in to The Old Fashioned, enticed by the name and in search of a well-muddled Old Fashioned (which, coincidentally, you are sure to find), but one of the most pleasant discoveries of this Madison restaurant is its delicious burger selection. We were crazy about the olive oil mayonnaise in burger no.28 (yes, they're numbered), and the char-grilled flavor of the patties. The Old Fashioned celebrates simple yet high-quality food, just like your Grandma used to make. Oh, and if you're a fan of bargains as well as burgers, drop by on Monday night for buy one, get one free on cheeseburgers. You can thank us later. After eating our way around Madison, burger by burger, we have narrowed down what makes a burger stand out above the rest. Starting with high-quality protein, it needs to be cooked to perfection in order to leave that juiciness (read: messiness) that is essential to the burger-eating experience. Locally-sourced meats are a plus to ensure optimal freshness, and although we like to keep it simple, quality cheese and condiments give it the make-or-break factor. Top it all off with a bun (we love a shiny brioche) and tuck in - no cutlery, please!   “ Mushroom Swiss Burger 1” via Flickr by Mosespreciado. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

Coworkers carpooling to work in the 2019 Toyota Camry.

3 Reasons to Buy a New Toyota Camry

Toyota is famous for its line of mid-size sedans which have brought a new level of quality to consumers. The Camry, one of its flagship models, still continues to provide the quality and craftsmanship that has become an expectation over the years. The reasons to buy a new Camry are similar to those in the past. A new Camry provides the same trusted safety, comfort, efficiency, and technology that has been loved for generations. 1. Performance The new Camry brings some surprising power to the table this year with either a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.5-liter V-6. Both options bring more than adequate power when navigating the open highway. This year the Camry uses a direct fuel injection system that is selected based on driving conditions. This allows either engine to be impressively fuel-efficient. To go along with the new powerful engine, the suspension has also been upgraded to a strut front suspension. What this means is, when cornering, or even handling on an open highway, there is less play in the steering column caused by road friction. This allows for smoother handling and tighter steering, allowing the driver more control over the car's trajectory. 2. Design This is certainly not your parent's Camry. The new Camry's exterior has a sleek, sporty look that could easily be mistaken for a luxury sedan or extravagant sports car. One of the new exterior features is a new Nightshade paint job. Everything on the car, including the wheels, is completely blacked out, with the exception of exterior LED lighting. With the new Camry, there is even a mesh-like grille with the Toyota logo visible, which gives the care more of a luxury feel. The interior design also features some new designs that will make your parent's Camry only a memory. There is an option for red leather cockpit seating, which blends flawlessly with the rest of the interior design. The incorporation of paddle shifters into the driver's cockpit also gives you the feeling of driving a sports car instead of a sedan. 3. Technology The Camry also delivers with driver convenience and technology. The design of the car allows control right at the driver's fingertips so that the technology doesn't compete with the road for attention. Everything the driver needs to control the audio and camera systems is placed directly on the steering wheel for optimal safety. The new Camry comes with a push-button start, bird's-eye panoramic camera, and rear cross-traffic sonar which allows for intelligent braking. This means that it will sense objects in the rear-view or around the side of the vehicle and make the necessary adjustments automatically. The new Toyota Camry is the perfect combination of luxury, efficiency, and power. Anyone who has experienced the quality that comes from Toyota will be impressed by the steps taken to upgrade the Camry for the next generation. This new model has guaranteed that the Camry is not just a smart choice, but is fun, responsive, and exciting to drive as well. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

A beautiful plate of traditional Sinaloa Tacos.

Top Mexican Eateries in Madison, WI

When the family budget doesn't quite stretch to an all-inclusive vacation in the Riviera Maya or intrepid exploration of the Chichen Itza pyramids, the second-best option will have to do. What is that option, you ask? Why, heading to a deliciously authentic Mexican restaurant in Madison to get your fill of tacos, chilaquiles, and queso, of course! We've hunted down our favorite Mexican eateries in Madison, WI, for you, so the hardest decision you'll have to make is choosing where to go first. Taqueria Guadalajara One thing we love about Taqueria Guadalajara is its extensive menu, which boasts not only veggie-friendly options but also traditional Mexican fare, and not just your typical Tex Mex grub. Okay, maybe that is more than one thing, but we love it here! The mole is a must-try, and with flavor-rich tacos starting at $2 a pop, you can feed the masses without breaking the bank here. The horchata is sweet and cinnamony enough to conjure distant childhood memories of the comfort drink Abuela used to make. Eldorado Grill We highly recommend Eldorado for those who prefer high-quality Mexican fusion. Here you can find deliciously crafted Southwestern food, such as their famous Baby Back Ribs, alongside mouthwatering Mexican classics such as pork adobo with queso fresco. Ask for it extra spicy! Wash it all down with a margarita, made with 100% agave tequila. Head over on a Tuesday to try their Top Shelf Tuesdays and have the chance to taste test some of the best tequilas they offer at a discounted price, perfectly paired with tasty tacos. Tex Tubb's Taco Palace If you're looking for a trendy, colorful restaurant with plenty of food options for the whole family, head on down to Tex Tubb's. We loved the bottomless chips and homemade salsas, and vegans will find bliss with the vegan nachos and queso. The service is quick and friendly, and the happy hour will keep you entertained at a low price - why not try one of each of their specialty margaritas?  Eating at Tubb's is a unique experience, and truly one to be repeated. Tacos served in a vintage toy car, anyone? La Mestiza At La Mestiza, you're sure to find fresh, authentic, and flavorful food. It's almost as good as a trip to Mexico City! With a wide range of enchiladas available on the menu, we dare you to try something different from your usual chicken taco. We absolutely loved the spicy shrimp enchiladas. While we've got you out of your comfort zone, do not leave without having eaten nopales - that's cactus to you and me. A truly delightful culinary experience! Wisconsin, despite being geographically distant from Mexico, still packs a punch in terms of spice, flavor, and authentic Mexican cuisine. Madison sure didn't disappoint us on our taco pilgrimage, and we loved the variety of ingredients and gastronomical styles we experienced along the way. As connoisseurs of Mexican cuisine, Madison has our seal of approval!   “ tacos Sinaloa selection” via Flickr by scaredykay. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

The front end of the all-new 2020 Toyota Corolla.

Discover the All-New 2020 Toyota Corolla

The 2020 Toyota Corolla delivers a stunning new design and plenty of updated features inside and out. If you've been thinking about upgrading to a new sedan, learn more about some of the outstanding comforts and conveniences you'll find in the 2020 Corolla that makes it the ideal option for you. Striking Exterior Design The first thing you'll notice when you take a look at the 2020 Toyota Corolla is that it showcases a stunning new exterior design that will surely turn heads. In the front, standard features that include a honeycomb mesh grille, LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, and a low stance give the sedan a sleek appearance. For convenience, the Corolla also comes standard with power-adjustable side mirrors. In the back, the standard LED taillights offer enhanced efficiency and a distinctive look. Fun and Capable Power When you're ready to feel some fun when you hit the road, the Toyota Corolla has the power to give you what you want. This vehicle comes standard with a 1.8-liter engine that delivers 139 horsepower and 126 pound-feet of torque. For even more excitement, consider the available 2.0-liter engine that generates 169 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. Or you can enjoy efficiency and fun with the first-ever Corolla hybrid model that comes with a 1.8-liter hybrid engine that offers 121 horsepower and 105 pound-feet of torque. Premium Interior Features If you're looking for a new Toyota that has premium interior features, you'll find everything you want inside the 2020 Corolla. The cabin in the Corolla now feels more open and spacious, and it offers plenty of deluxe features that make it feel like you're surrounded by luxury. The available SofTex-trimmed front seats include a heating element and sport fabric inserts. Even your fingertips can enjoy a touch of softness thanks to the available leather-trimmed steering wheel. Other convenient available features in the Corolla include automatic climate control and push-button start. Excellent Technology The 2020 Corolla offers some outstanding technology features to help you stay connected like never before. The standard infotainment system includes a 7-inch touch-screen display, a six-speaker audio system, a USB media port, and advanced voice recognition controls and music streaming using Bluetooth. Additionally, the system comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Siri Eyes Free so you can stream music, get directions, make calls, and send messages using your voice. Plus, with the standard Amazon Alexa compatibility, you can get the forecast, play music, and more. Impressive Safety Features When you want to feel extra peace of mind every time you hit the road just remember the excellent safety features in the Toyota Corolla. The Corolla comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which includes a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Road Sign Assist, Automatic High Beams, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist and Road Edge Detection with Sway Warning System, Lane Tracing Assist, and Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. If you're ready to enjoy all the amazing new features found in the 2020 Toyota Corolla, come get behind the wheel of this stylish vehicle today. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

A beautiful pagoda in Madison's Olbrich Gardens.

5 Top Attractions in Madison, WI

As the capital of Wisconsin and the second-largest city in the state, Madison offers a variety of interesting things to do and see. If you're planning to visit the city and you want to discover everything it has to offer, make sure you don't miss these top attractions. 1. Olbrich Botanical Gardens Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a stunning 16-acre outdoor garden display that features an incredible mix of hearty Midwest plants and colorful tropical greenery. Every season offers something new to see. Stop by in the spring to check out the blooming bulbs. Come in the summer to experience the bright annuals and perennials. Fall showcases colorful mums and brilliant red, orange, and yellow trees, and winter has pops of color with evergreens and berries. Winter is also the perfect time to check out the year-round tropical paradise in the Bolz Conservatory. 2. Henry Vilas Zoo If you want to learn more about exotic animals and those that are native to Wisconsin, plan a trip to the Henry Vilas Zoo. The zoo is home to over 650 animals from around the world, including 20 that are considered endangered or vulnerable. Some of the popular exhibits at the zoo include the Arctic Passage, Big Cats Exhibit, North American Prairie, Primate House, Tropical Rainforest Aviary, Savanna and High Plains, and Discovery Center and Herpetarium. Best of all, the county owns the zoo, which means it doesn't charge an admission fee. 3. Wisconsin State Capitol Wisconsin's Capitol building reaches over 265 feet in the sky and is topped by an elegant gilded bronze statue, making it one of the most eye-catching parts of the city's skyline. The best way to experience the beauty and history of the building is to take a tour. Free tours of the Capitol are offered daily except on certain holidays. The tour lasts between 45 and 55 minutes and lets you check out special rooms in the building and learn more about daily operations. During the summer, the sixth-floor museum and observation deck are also open. 4. Chazen Museum of Art The Chazen Museum of Art located at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has a collection of more than 20,000 works of art that represent the entire spectrum of art history. As you tour the museum, you'll see paintings and sculptures from a variety of cultures, periods, and genres. Some of the popular artists displayed at the museum include Salvador Dali, Henry Moore, Andy Warhol, and Grandma Moses. 5. Dane County Farmers' Market The Dane County Farmers' Market is one of the largest producer-only markets in the United States. The popular Saturday on the Square market is held on the beautiful tree-lined grounds of the Wisconsin State Capitol building. During the winter, the market moves indoors to the Madison Senior Center. No matter when you visit, you'll find an incredible selection of fruits, vegetables, honey, cheeses, bakery items, and more straight from the growers and makers. When you want to experience the best that Madison has to offer, you know you can't go wrong when you check out these top attractions around the city.   “ olbrich_005” via Flickr by kfcasper. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

A silver 2019 Toyota Tundra loaded down with timbers.

Explore the Powerful and Dependable Toyota Tundra

The strong and capable Toyota Tundra is a full-size truck that combines incredible good looks with outstanding power. If you've been searching for a new Toyota, there are a variety of reasons why the Tundra is perfect for you. Learn more about all the excellent features you'll enjoy in this powerful and stylish truck. Bold Exterior When you take a look at the Toyota Tundra, you'll see a strong and eye-catching truck designed to suit your needs. To give you the space you need to take care of any job, the Tundra offers beds in 5.5-foot, 6.5-foot, and 8.1-foot options. The truck also includes plenty of features to make your drive more convenient. It comes standard with halogen headlights with LED accent lights, heated and power-adjustable side mirrors, and an easy lower and lift tailgate. For even more convenience, the Tundra is also available with LED fog lamps and headlights and auto-dimming side mirrors. Incredible Power Not only does the Toyota Tundra look amazing, but it also offers incredible power for work and play. The truck comes with a 5.7-liter i-FORCE V-8 engine that combines with a six-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission to generate 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. Thanks to that kind of power, the Tundra has a maximum towing capacity of up to 10,000 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of up to 1,730 pounds when properly equipped. To help make sure your fun doesn't have to stop because you need gas, the Tundra is also available with a 38-gallon fuel tank. Spacious Interior Just because the Toyota Tundra is tough and strong on the outside, that doesn't mean you have to give up your favorite comforts inside. In fact, the Tundra's spacious cabin gives you and your passengers plenty of room to stretch out during your drive. You'll also find numerous premium features designed to help make your trip more comfortable. On chilly days, you'll appreciate the available dual-zone climate control and heated front seats. For a soft touch, the Tundra is also available with leather-trimmed seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Fantastic Technology When you need to stay connected, the Toyota Tundra has the technology to help. The truck comes standard with an infotainment system that includes a 7-inch touch-screen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling, voice-recognition controls, and music streaming. The Tundra is also available with a premium infotainment system that includes an 8-inch touch-screen display and built-in navigation. Plus, with Remote Connect, you can use your mobile device turn on and off the engine, lock and unlock doors, and more. Top Safety Features Along with outstanding power, your Toyota Tundra also has some impressive safety features. Every Tundra comes standard with a rearview camera and Toyota Safety Sense, which includes Automatic High Beams, a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Lane Departure Alert. If you want a powerful truck that also delivers incredible comfort, you'll find everything you need when you get behind the wheel of the Toyota Tundra. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

A tree lined sidewalk in Madison during the Fall.

5 Things to Do This Fall Near Madison, WI.

It's true, summer is coming to an end in Madison, Wisconsin, but that doesn't mean the good times have to stop as well. Instead, it's time to start looking forward to a variety of exciting fall activities. When you're ready to get outside and see what the area has to offer, make plans to check out one of these fun things to do in the fall near Madison. 1. Eugster's Farm Market and Petting Farm To experience all those classic and exciting fall activities, travel 15 minutes south of Madison to Eugster's Farm Market and Petting Farm. If you come for the Fall Festival Weekends, you can head out to the U-Pick apple orchard to fill a bag with your choice of apples, stop by the pumpkin patch to find the perfect pumpkin, explore the 8-acre corn maze, walk through the haunted house, take a wagon ride, or stroll through the petting zoo to meet the farm animals. 2. Dane County Farmers' Market Held on Saturday mornings on the Capitol Square, the Dane County Farmers' Market is one of the largest producer-only markets in the country. If you're looking to fill your basket with some of the freshest fall produce from local farms, this is the place to go. You'll find apples, corn, eggplant, melons, peaches, pears, peppers, plums, berries, and more. In addition to fresh produce, you'll also be able to stock up on honey, nuts, jellies, jams, maple syrup, plants, cheese, meat, dairy, and baked goods. 3. Cherokee Marsh Hayride During the fall, the City of Madison Parks Division offers a schedule of hayrides for everyone to enjoy. One popular option is the Cherokee Marsh Hayride, which tours the Cherokee Marsh Conservation Park. If you decide to take this hayride, you'll climb aboard a tractor-pulled hay wagon to view the beautiful sights of the park. After the ride, volunteers from the Friends of Cherokee Marsh will offer a free, short nature hike. While you're there, you can also enjoy free marshmallows to roast on the fire and hot cider. 4. Olbrich Botanical Gardens Olbrich Botanical Gardens is beautiful no matter what time of year you visit, but it's especially lovely in the fall. As you stroll around the 16-acre outdoor display garden, you can take in the gorgeous colors of the changing leaves. The garden also hosts a variety of special fall events. This year, GLEAM: Art in a New Light is back by popular demand. This exhibition features stunning light installations around the gardens. 5. Schuster's Playtime Farm Another fun place to visit this fall near Madison is Schuster's Playtime Farm. During the fall season, you can ride the wagon out to the 14-acre pumpkin patch, practice your aim firing an apple cannon, get lost in the 8-acre corn maze, take a thrilling walk through the Haunted Forest, and enjoy savory treats that include caramel apples, cider donuts, kettle corn, and hot apple cider. When you're interested in having some fun around Madison this fall, be sure to check out a few of these outstanding events.   “ Fall color Madison, WI, October, 2011” via Flickr by Richard Hurd. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

The front right corner of the 2019 Toyota Corolla.

3 Reasons Why the Toyota Camry is an Enduring Model

The Toyota Camry has been in production for decades, and for good reason. Since the first front-wheel-drive Camry was introduced in 1983 in America, it has been out-performing the competition. Here's a look at why the Camry is one of the most enduring vehicles ever made. 1. Power Under the Hood The Camry has gone through many iterations, and each new model has been engineered with performance in mind. The 2019 Camry comes with two engine options, a 2.4-liter Dynamic Force 4-cylinder engine that is surprisingly responsive and a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that gives the Camry some real muscle. Both engines use Toyota's D-4S Direct Injection system which maximizes fuel efficiency by selecting the best injection method based on driving conditions. The result is speed and power while remaining fuel-efficient. 2. Agility on the Road Knowing the road you're on is important, and Toyota understands where the Camry will be driving. Whether it's a suburban or urban commute or upcountry for the weekend, the Camry is designed for comfort. Equipped with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension, the Camry handles the stop and go commute and the curvy back roads with equal confidence. Toyota's Direct Shift Automatic 8-Speed Transmission also enhances the Camry's ride. Precision shifting, a lower center of gravity, and lightweight materials allow the Camry to ride smoother and with improved fuel efficiency. With three driver-selectable modes, the Camry can be tailored to the road or driver. Select Sport mode and hang on through the tight turns. Eco mode will get you there efficiently, automatically moderating throttle input. For the best of both worlds, you can select Normal mode, a seamless blend of efficiency and handling. The Camry also allows you to choose your own shift points on either the gear shift lever or the paddle shifters on the steering wheel, giving you the ultimate control of your driving experience. In the end, the Camry delivers an estimated 41 highway mpg, and that result speaks for itself. 3. Safety Always a hallmark of the Toyota Camry, safety continues to propel the Camry to the head of the pack. 2019 is no exception as the Camry comes standard with an Advanced Air Bag System that features dual-stage SRS driver and front passenger airbags and front and rear side-curtain airbags. With ten airbags overall, the Camry offers great protection in the event of a collision. The Camry also features the Star Safety System, a suite of six systems using cutting edge technology to keep you safer on the streets. Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-Lock Brakes, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution, Brake Assist, and Smart Stop Technology all work unseen under the hood. Additional safety features like Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert expand your vision and can help reduce the risk of accidents and injury. All in all, the Camry continues to deliver, year after year, and now, decade after decade. Power, performance, efficiency, and safety are the reasons why. Come in and test drive one today and see for yourself why the Camry continues to endure. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

A view through stalactites and stalagmites into one of the chambers at the Cave of the Mounds.

3 Off the Beaten Places in Madison You Need to See

Sometimes visiting places off the beaten track is the perfect way to explore interesting locations that are aren't your typical everyday attractions. In Madison, consider these quirky destinations for intriguing and memorable adventures. 1. Cave of the Mounds The Cave of the Mounds is definitely off the beaten track when you're looking for natural beauty that has stood the test of time. The cave was discovered in 1939 and listed as a National Natural Landmark. Inside the cool recesses of the cave, a rainbow of crystal formations casts colorful hues along paved walkways. Take the guided tour and learn about the centuries-old cave and its history from the tour guides. Enjoy additional activities, including digging for fossils, mining for gems, hiking scenic trails, and relaxing in the Butterfly Gardens. While visiting, you'll have access to the rock and gift shops for a souvenir, a snack bar for refreshments, or you can pack a lunch and relax at the picnic area. Cave of the Mounds is open year-round with tours starting every 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the season, rain or shine. Tours last about one hour. 2. House on the Rock For a truly astounding example of architecture, the House on the Rock tops the list. The home is unique in more ways than one. Construction on the home began in 1945 by Alex Jordan, who had a vision of creating a retreat that would be perched upon the rock formation, providing a panorama of scenic views. The tour of the home is broken down into three sections. You will be guided through 13 creative rooms featuring beautiful decor amid soft colors and hues, treasures and collectibles, exquisite fireplaces, handcrafted dolls, music machines, and much more. The tour includes the Gate House, Spirit of Aviation, Music of Yesterday, Streets of Yesterday, The Mill House, Organ Room, Inspiration Point, Doll House Room, Circus Room, The Galleries, The Doll Carousel Room, the 218-foot Infinity Room comprised of over 3,000 pieces of glass, Indoor Carousel, and the Heritage of the Sea complete with a 200-foot tall denizen of the deep display. Outside, the Japanese Gardens features a 14-foot waterfall. 3. Lamp House For architecture enthusiasts, the Lamp House is a "must-see" in Madison. The home was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright for his childhood friend, Robert Lamp. Located at 22 North Butler Street, the three-story home was built in 1903. The house features squares, tiered rectangles, a diamond pattern in the brickwork, casement windows with leaded glass, and atop the third story, a roof garden. The Lamp House is set back from the street amid a landscaped garden designed back in the day with decorative urns, detailed curbs, and stone walls to evoke a solitary environment. Although the impressive home is privately owned, it continues to draw artists, architects, and history buffs for its historical importance. Take a walk on the wild and unusual side, get up-close to ancient natural formations, and step back into a time when a legendary architect made dreams come true. Enjoy visiting these unique destinations that will take you off the beaten path.   “ Cave of the Mounds 15” via Flickr by minnemom. Used with permission via CC BY-ND 2.0 / cropped from original

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