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Summer is the season for doing things outdoors. What better way to enjoy the summer than by visiting a local festival. Music, arts, food, and fun await at these festivals in the Madison, Wisconsin, area. Dane County Fair The Dane County Fair will be at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison from July 18 through 21. Special shows like Lady Houdini will amaze fairgoers and you can check in on the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show, packed with friendly competition from professional lumberjacks. Both events are free with your fair admission. The fair offers unique daily theme-related activities for the whole family. Youth exhibits in the Exhibition Hall show off the bright young minds of Dane County. The pavilions and arena building are packed with all types of animals. There's even a Kiddie Farm where you can see the cutest baby animals in the county. Nightly concerts will provide great music after the daytime fun is finished. Of course, the fair features a carnival as well, full of rides and games the whole family will enjoy. Check the Dane County Fair website for carnival specials. There are lots of vendors selling handcrafted goods, t-shirts, and so much more. And a fair wouldn't be a fair without those delicious food vendors. There will be barbecue, Asian grills, tacos, funnel cakes, and other fair fare. Admission to the fair is only $8 per person, $3 for ages 6-11, and kids under 6 are free. Parking is free and the gates open at 9:00 a.m. and most everything runs until 11:00 p.m. more Art Fair on the Square The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art brings you the 61st annual Art Fair on the Square. Held on the Capitol Square in Madison on July 13 and 14 this year, the outdoor event promises to be better than ever. The Art Fair on the Square is one of the Midwest's most popular events. This highly regarded gathering features over 500 artists displaying their designs. From paintings and sculptures to jewelry and photographs, this event is always a great way to check out what's new in the art world. You can browse the collections for fun or buy something that catches your eye. Take a break and have some food at one of the many outdoor dining venues. The fair also features live entertainment. It is sure to be family-friendly fun for the whole weekend. Yum Yum Fest Dubbed the most delicious day of the summer, Madison's annual food festival is aptly named the Yum Yum Fest. Held every August, the event is a joint effort between the Madison Area Chef's Network and Breese Stevens Field. The goal is to raise money for local charities while showcasing the fine culinary talent that lives in and around Madison. Great music, food tastings from the finest chefs, and more will provide a full day of fun that the whole family can enjoy. Madison has some of the best art, food, and culture in the Midwest. As you plan your summer events, be sure to check out these fine festivals. The fun is there for the enjoying.   “ Ferris Wheel” via Flickr by sarae. Used with permission via CC BY-ND 2.0 / cropped from original

Summer is quickly approaching full-strength and soon you'll be looking for the top ways to beat the heat. Of course, one of the most classic ways to do this is to go for a swim. The Madison area is home to several great swimming holes and locations, and it can be hard to decipher which ones are the most worth your while. If you're wondering where you can go for a swim around Madison, check out these incredible locations below. 1. Amnicon Falls This State Park offers several refreshing waterfalls and plunge pools to swim in. The falls include the Upper Falls, Lower Falls, Now and Then Falls, and Snake Pit Falls. The drop at the Upper Falls location is about 15 feet, and water levels do fluctuate, so care should be taken before leaping in. The park has designated camping areas for outdoor adventurers looking for a place to stay. more 2. Eau Claire River The excitement of Amnicon Falls can bring a lot of visitors to the park, making for a noisy, crowded day of swimming. If you're looking for something a bit more secluded, you'll want to give the Eau Claire River a shot. The words eau claire translate from French to clear water, and there's no better way to describe this wonderfully secluded swimming hole. Once you've arrived, you'll be greeted by a relaxing, slow-moving river with sandy beaches and a sandy bottom. It's a real surprise that more people aren't heading down to these refreshing waters. There is no camping or other amenities at this location. 3. Pebble Beach It's hard to leave Lake Michigan out of the equation when it comes to the best area swimming holes. This quiet bay is tough to find, but the reward is worth it. You'll almost always have the area to yourself, and who doesn't want that? If you have a hiking GPS, you can plug in latitude 45.18522 and longitude 87.15166. While it's a longer trek than some of the other swimming spots on our list, the views and seclusion are second to none. 4. Salmo Pond Sitting much closer to home is Salmo Pond. It's an abandoned quarry that has been converted into a sandy beach and sandy bottom body of water. It's also fed by the Black Earth Creek, which is teaming with trout and perfect for fishing. The water is always cool and refreshing, even on the hottest days of the summer. 5. Devil's Lake State Park Sometimes, you just need a quick retreat to beat the heat, which means you won't be taking road trips to the most fabulous spots in the state. In these cases, you'll want to make your way to Devil's Lake State Park. It's a recreational behemoth with two large beaches, excellent fishing opportunities and more. Because of its size and convenience, it is frequently very crowded. Whether you're looking to drive a bit for nature's incredible splendor, or you're looking for a quick and easy way to cool off, you'll wind it all within driving distance of Madison, WI. Check out some of the top spots above for an amazing summer retreat. “ 20140718_Amnicon_Falls_State_Park_0009.jpg”via Flickr by Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Used with permission via CC BY-ND 2.0 / cropped from original

Summers in Wisconsin can come and go quickly. It's important to make sure you squeeze the maximum amount of fun out of every opportunity you get. This July, there are dozens of events you can attend to help you achieve your wildest summertime dreams. If you're unsure of just how much is going on in Madison this year, here's a quick guide. 1. Fourth of July Celebration and Festival You can't have a list of the best Fourth of July events without throwing an Independence Day event near the top of the list. Kick off your July with a fun-filled community festival and a fireworks show in the evening. The Monona Community Festival celebrates everything that makes summer a special time of the year. Events and attractions at the festival include arts and crafts tents, carnival games, food and beer tents, live entertainment, and a fireworks display. Those brave enough can enter the wife carrying tournament. There's no better way to start your July then heading over to the Monona Community Festival. more 2. Wisconsin Wild Things Camp Those with little ones between the grades of one and three can spend July 8 through 12th at this exciting day camp. If your kids love the outdoors, the Wisconsin Wild Things camp is the perfect experience. Each day they'll explore all kinds of area wildlife from furry critters to tiny insects. This day camp will give them an outlet to explore and give you a little bit of R&R for the week. 3. Concerts at McKee Every third Monday of the month in June through August, you can catch a free concert held at McKee Farms Park. Grab a spot and enjoy exciting live music and munch on your favorite entrees from several local food carts. Slide Food Cart and Taqueria MariMar are both wildly popular options. The picnic begins at five p.m. and music beginning at six. Headliners will hit the stage an hour later at seven p.m.. Admission is free so it's a great way to enjoy all the community has to offer and spend some time in the more tolerable summer evening weather. 4. Two Awesome Art Fairs, One Awesome Day There are two art fairs held in mid-July. If you have the time, try to hit it both the Art Fair on the Square and the Art Fair off the Square (yes, those are the names!). The Art Fair off the Square is held on Martin Luther King Boulevard and features collections from over 140 local artists, designers, craft makers and more. There will be opportunities to purchase food as well. This event is held on July 13th and 14th. The Art Fair on the Square is held on Capitol Square on July 14 and 15th. Madison offers dozens upon dozens of exciting events in July. Some of them are recurring weekly events while others you only have one chance to catch. No matter what you decide to attend this summer, make sure you're getting all the fun and excitement you deserve.   “ Fireworks” via Flickr by bayasaa. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

You see food trucks on the streets wherever you go, but for some reason, maybe you've never tried them, even though they smell amazing. With the large number of food truck options in Madison, it's easy to be overwhelmed by where you should start. Don't worry because we've got you covered. Below is a list of food trucks you can't miss. 1. The Rodeo Wagon The Rodeo Wagon is the only rodeo-themed food truck in Madison, and it's a delight to eat their food. It began as a single cart in 2016 on Capital Square and has since grown into a fully-developed catering service. The menu has a little bit of everything, even though they specialize in southern food. Recently, their chefs studied in New Orleans to add new meals to their selection. The Trio Jambalaya, one of their most sought-after dishes, combines their custom seasoning with "hearty andouille sausage, ham, veggies and a trio of peppers over rice, topped with a whole crawfish." more 2. Pickle Jar If you eat at the Pickle Jar, you're in for a treat. All American food makes up the majority of the menu, and if you run into them in the morning, they even have breakfast options. The Pickle Jar prides itself on using locally sourced, sustainable ingredients and making their food from scratch. Their lunch time offering of BBQ meals will have your mouth salivating before you're even able to make a decision about which one you want to eat. If you've never tried the Pickle Jar before, order the Bama Brisket to take your taste buds to new heights. 3. Toast Toast may have a simple name, but don't let that fool you. Paninis are the specialty of this husband-and-wife run food truck, and they are delicious. You may be thinking that paninis aren't enough to build a brand, but you are mistaken. What most people view as a quick and easy sandwich to make, Toast turns into art. The couple has won multiple first place ribbons for their savory paninis, and if that wasn't enough, they're also committed to excellent customer service. You can find Toast near the UW Madison campus. 4. Frannie's Franks You've not had a hotdog until you've eaten one of Frannie's Franks. With a variety of options to put into a bun, Frannie's should always be first on the list when you want some comfort food.  With brats, polish dogs, and huge array of sandwiches, there's something for everyone at Frannie's. After you've chosen your perfect meal, like the Turkey Brat with ketchup, mustard, and onions, you'll be sure to leave with a smile. Food trucks are becoming as common to see as buses around Madison, and we're loving it. The added options they provide are a welcome change from traditional restaurants, and they're perfect for people who need a quick bite on the go. In addition to grabbing some delectable meals, patronizing the food trucks is also a great way to support local businesses, so find one of these trucks today! A01_3939 via Flickr by Nao Okawa. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

When the weather warms up and winter gives way to spring, it's time to get outside and start enjoying the pleasant temperatures. Fortunately, you'll find several places around Madison, Wisconsin, where you can appreciate the great outdoors. When you're ready to get back outside, make plans to check out one of these can't-miss Madison parks. more Olin Park Located on the shores of Lake Monona, Olin Park offers an excellent variety of activities for everyone to enjoy. If you're looking to play some sports, the park has a baseball diamond and soccer field. You can take a stroll on the walking paths, go for a jog on the trail, ride your bike around the park, or let the kids burn some energy at the park's playground. Or, if you're interested in doing nothing at all, you can simply relax on the beach. The park also offers one of the best views of downtown Madison. Owen Conservation Park Owen Conservation Park is a 96-acre park that's perched on a hilltop overlooking Madison's west side. It was once the farm of University of Wisconsin professor Edward T. Owen. However, today oak savannas and prairies have started to reclaim the land. As you head out on the 3 miles of trails in the park, you'll enjoy an ever-changing landscape of shaded forests and open fields filled with wildflowers. You can even stop by the park's ponds to see what type of wildlife you can spot. Westmorland Park Westmorland Park is a neighborhood park with several interesting activities to enjoy. You can play a game at the tennis courts, basketball court, volleyball court, or softball field. Kids love the large playground in the park, and the rock garden is a fun place to take a stroll. The reservable shelter has a working fireplace that brings some rustic charm to any get-together. In the winter, strap on your ice skates and take a spin around the rink. Governor Nelson State Park The 422-acre Governor Nelson State Park sits on the shores of Lake Mendota. On most days, you can enjoy a unique view of the Wisconsin State Capitol from the park. Popular activities available include swimming, boating, fishing, and picnicking. If you travel further into the park, you'll also find more than 8 miles of hiking trails. You can even view some Native American effigy mounds when you head out on the Woodland Trail. Lake Kegonsa State Park Perhaps one of the area's best-kept secrets is Lake Kegonsa State Park. This 342-acre park is situated on Lake Kegonsa and offers swimming, fishing, boating, seasonal camping, hiking, and cross-country skiing. The park also offers sand volleyball courts and horseshoe pits, and you can rent volleyballs and horseshoes at the park office. The playground is always a popular spot with the kids, and the beach is the perfect place to relax in the sun or build a sand castle. No matter what type of outdoor activity you enjoy, you're sure to find it when you check out these parks around Madison this spring.   “ A sunny day in Madison” via Flickr by vlachmore. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

The snow is starting to melt and the flowers are beginning to bloom. That can only mean one thing: spring break is almost here. Who says you have to go to a tropical location to have fun during spring break? Instead, check out a few of these exciting things to do around Madison, Wisconsin. 1. Cookie Decorating Class If you're looking for something fun and different to do this spring break, consider signing up for the spring cookie decorating class at Cookies by Kate. You'll get to learn all the tips and tricks on making perfectly decorated cookies. During the class, you'll have a chance to decorate eight spring-themed sugar cookies. You'll also get a lovely box to take home your cookies and show off your creations. more 2. Springtime Macarons Class You can really take your baking skills to the next level this spring break when you sign up for the springtime macarons baking class at delecTable. Even though these sweet treats only require four ingredients, the way you put those ingredients together is crucial. Certified Master Baker Punky Egan will walk you through each step of the process so you can learn how to make these delightful French treats. When you're done, you'll get to leave with a chocolate ganache and Swiss meringue buttercream macaron. 3. Girl Wonderful T-Shirt Decorating Whether you have a young girl looking for something to do over spring break or you and your friends want to create something fun, everyone will have a great time at the T-shirt decorating event with Revel and Girl Wonderful. When you sign up, you'll get to choose which Girl Wonderful T-shirt you want to decorate. Options include everything from "Girl Strong" to "Girl President." You can then spend the morning embellishing your shirt with fabric paint, sequins, gems, and other trims. 4. I Love the '90s Bash For the over 21 crowds, the I Love the '90s Bash is a bar crawl that will make you remember why this decade was so awesome. When you sign up, you'll get a color-changing cup to hold your drinks and a slap bracelet that will instantly bring back some of your best childhood memories. On the day of the bash, make sure you dress up in your best '90s gear as you enjoy drink specials at participating bars and partying with the top hits from the '90s. 5. Downtown Madison Spring Wine Walk During the Downtown Madison Spring Wine Walk, you'll have a chance to check out the shops and businesses in downtown Madison as you taste a variety of wines. The event has several sip stops on the walk. Be sure to stop by each one with your commemorative wine glass to sample the wine and see what's available. Plus, don't forget to join the after party for your chance to win some great prizes. Whether you want to make something amazing or have a good time with friends, you'll find something fun to do during spring break when you check out these top events around Madison.   “ Easter Sugar Cookies” via Flickr by JL7978. Used with permission via CC BY-SA 2.0 / cropped from original

Rather than dread the winter weather and stay cooped up inside, get out an enjoy some fun! There are a ton of great options for exciting winter activities in and around Madison, Wisconsin. If the weather is really unbearable, there are also some indoor activities that are just as fun. Here are four winter-friendly activities worth checking out. more Tour Some of Madison's Museums If you're looking for some family fun, the Madison Children's Museum is full of cool exhibits and hands-on learning opportunities for all ages. Check out Stair Trek, their tour of the universe starting from the earth's core and reaching out to the cosmos. Winter Wonder Weeks are a great way to celebrate the season at the museum. The Wisconsin Historical Museum in Madison's Capitol Square is a great place to learn about the area you love. Beginning with the native people groups of Wisconsin and stretching to twentieth-century urbanization, the exhibits tell an enthralling story. Other interesting museums in Madison include the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, the Chazen Museum of Art, and the Wisconsin Veterans Museum. Go Sledding Various parks around Madison have great sledding hills. Take a snowy day off and do some park hopping looking for the best hill. Bring your own sled, and enjoy the ride. You can even find a guide to the best sledding hills around the area online. Some of the parks even offer concession stands and warming houses so you can recharge for the next winter adventure. Hit the Slopes Winter resorts are readily available in the Madison area and beyond. Just 30 minutes to an hour drive outside of the city in various directions will bring you to many different ski areas. Whether you're an avid skier or snowboarder, or if you're just looking for a place to go tubing, you'll have plenty of great options. Resorts like Devil's Head, Alpine Valley, and Cascade Mountain offer tons of runs for all different skill levels and plenty of rental options for those without their own gear. These places are also great for weekend getaways with lodging on site and nearby, as well as restaurants and relaxation areas. Tyrol Basin and Blackhawk ski area are smaller places for winter sports but offer just as much chance to enjoy slope time. Go Ice Skating Thanks to the cold temperatures in the Madison area, many outdoor parks offer ice skating. Bundle up, put on your skates (or rent a pair) and enjoy some charming outdoor fun. Skating on a frozen pond offers beautiful views that you just can't get at an indoor rink. Because outdoor ice skating rinks need the cooperation of cold temperatures, be sure to double check that a rink is open before attempting to skate. Don't forget to make sure you're behind the wheel of a winter-ready vehicle while enjoying the Wisconsin weather. At Smart Toyota, we have a great selection of new vehicles ready to take on the snow.   “ Snow & Fun” via Flickr by Jean de la Tête. Used with permission via CC BY-ND 2.0 / cropped from original

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, it's important to have your romantic getaway planned well in advance. Soon, all of the top spots will be booked, and you definitely don't want to be scrambling at the last minute to book a reservation. If you're now looking to make reservations to celebrate this day of love, here are a few of the top spots around Madison, Wisconsin. more Get Your Hotel Squared Away ASAP When it comes to hotel reservations around Valentine's Day, sooner is always better than later. There are several romantic hotels around, so try to book one of these if you can. The Buckingham Inn in Madison is the perfect quiet and romantic spot to center your Valentine's holiday around. Each suite features some of the most sought-after amenities, including luxury towels and toiletries, local chocolates, bathrobes, an HDTV, and a large bathtub. These rooms are perfect for snuggling up together on a romantic vacation. Every morning, you'll experience a fresh, delicious homemade breakfast that includes yogurt, fruit, and a sweet or savory entree. For an even more pastoral-feeling approach to your romantic getaway, check in at the Speckled Hen Inn. Your window will greet you with the pleasant sights of nature, which usually entails snow around February, and you may even see some farm animals. The Valentine's Day breakfast special includes a delicious three-course breakfast from the dates of February 8-18. Each room includes complimentary snacks and cotton bath linens, and some rooms have large tubs with jets. Restaurant Reservations If you don't need a hotel, that's excellent news. However, there are still a few things that need to be handled in order to pull off the perfect Valentine's Day. Making your restaurant reservations well ahead of time is sage advice. Take care of it now, and you won't have to sweat about it later. Here are a few restaurant ideas to complement your romantic evening. Chez Nanou is a delightful and romantic French Bistro. Here you'll be served a menu created by two amazing French chefs. All the food is excellent and authentic. If available, try the beef bourguignon or cassolettes gratinees. End your meal with some amazing lavender creme brulee. Anyone looking to break out of the typical mold of a romantic French restaurant or upscale steakhouse will want to make their way over to Forequarter. This rustic eatery uses fresh, local ingredients to prepare unique dishes that will create a lasting memory on your palate. The mustard ricotta dumplings with shiitake mushroom broth are flavorful and irresistible. Plan a Trip to the Spa Treat yourselves to a relaxing massage or spa treatment. There are several area spas to choose from, but Rejuvenation Spa is one of the top options. It offers plenty of spa treatments in your choice of duration, including standard massages, Aveda stone fusion massages, chakra massages, and Thai massages. The earlier you plan your Valentine's Day activities, the more fun you'll have and the less stress you'll encounter when trying to find a reservation. Remember these spots once you start making plans. Image via pixabay by pixel2013. Used with permission via Pixabay License / cropped from original

The Chazen Museum of Art, located at 750 University Ave. on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, is home to the second-largest art collection in Wisconsin, with more than 20,000 artworks. A 2011 expansion nearly doubled the museum's size to 176,000 square feet, so there's plenty to see and do. more What to See The Chazen's collection of paintings comes from several time periods, starting with European works from the 1300s. Paintings from American and Latin American artists up to the post-World War II era are also on display, including those of Wisconsin's John Wilde, considered a master of magic realism. The museum's sculpture collection includes ancient Egyptian and Roman artifacts; the museum's oldest item is a relief fragment from Egypt's Fifth Dynasty. The collection encompasses Europe, Southeast Asia, India, Pakistan, and 20th-century America. Drawings and watercolors range from preparatory drawings done by European masters in the 1500s to American, Japanese, and Chinese works from the 1900s. The Chazen has a large collection of 18th-century British watercolors and drawings done by Russian sculptor Antoine Pevsner in the first half of the 20th century. Examples of printmaking, showing the progression of woodcuts, engraving, and etching, extend from the 1400s through the present day. The Chazen hosts the archive of the university's publishing print shop. The photographic collection, mostly from the 1950s through the 1980s, includes examples from journalistic photographers and snapshots of street scenes, as well as photos as part of a mixed-media process. The applied and decorative arts collection runs the gamut, from fifth-century Byzantine floor mosaics and other architectural embellishments to ancient coins, Native American baskets to African jewelry, Greek and Etruscan vases to Chinese porcelain, and furniture from the 18th to the 20th century. Sunday Cinematheque at the Chazen The Chazen offers a variety of programs that go beyond the artwork. Sunday Cinematheque at the Chazen presents an occasional series of feature films and archival videos presented in the 160-seat auditorium. Educational videos are also shown on selected Thursdays. Sunday Afternoon Live at the Chazen is a monthly concert series held the first Sunday of each month (except January) in the Brittingham Gallery III, with about 100 seats available on a first-come basis. The concerts are also streamed on the internet. Bridge Poetry Series Events Twice a year, the Bridge Poetry Series brings about a dozen Wisconsin poets together to write and recite ekphrastic poems, bringing to words images of the painted artwork in the galleries. Activities for Children The Chazen holds a number of events aimed at children, helping them to learn about art, culture, and history. These include storytelling, poetry reading, dramatic re-enactments, dancing, music, drawing, bead-making, and stenciling. Special Events University faculty, curators, artists, and visiting scholars often take part in lectures or panel discussions that are open to the public. Artists sometimes provide demonstrations of specific techniques. Galas, receptions, and other events are also regularly scheduled, some focused on specific occasions or exhibits. Special university events are often arranged to expose U-W students to the museum's artworks. Perhaps the best thing about the Chazen Museum? It's free to the public. It's open Tuesday through Sunday. Drop-in guided tours are available on Sundays at 2 p.m. and Thursdays at 12:30 p.m.   “ Mom Chazen Museum of Art 2016 Spring Break TripApril 03, 2016 6” via Flickr by stevendepolo. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

As the chill of winter sets in, you need something to help you stay warm. Why not turn to the cozy embrace of a cup of steaming hot chocolate? Luckily, Madison is replete with numerous cafes and coffee shops offering this delectable treat. Stop by one of the following establishments to warm your belly while satiating your tongue. Madison Chocolate Company Head to Madison Chocolate Company for a cafe that specializes in all things chocolate. While their specialties are truffles and baked goods, that doesn't stop them from offering one of the best cups of liquid chocolate in the entire city. And that's exactly how many patrons describe these thick, gooey beverages — as liquid chocolate. They are a take on the European style of hot chocolate, where chunks of chocolate are literally melted into a drink. In other words, these cocoa libations are a must-try. Madison Chocolate Company is located at 729 Glenway St., and they're open every day of the week for varying hours. more Moka With three locations throughout the Madison area, Moka is the perfect place to stop if you need a respite from the chilly outdoor air. Step inside this quaint cafe and place an order for the seasonal peppermint white hot chocolate with a dash of cinnamon. This drink will warm both your body and mind as you slowly unwind after a long day in the cold. Don't worry if you have picky kids along with you, as Moka also serves up more traditional hot chocolate that's served warm, instead of hot, to prevent accidental burns. Stop by 2910 E. Washington Ave., 5227 University Ave., or 7402 Mineral Point Rd. any day of the week to grab your hot chocolate to go. The Java Den The Java Den is your standard local cafe, offering up numerous espresso drinks, handcrafted frappes, and Rishi Tea. However, where they truly excel is their hot chocolate. Instead of the usual milk chocolate, they use dark chocolate paired with steamed milk and topped with whipped cream for a delightful midday pick-me-up. Pair your hot chocolate with one of their muffins, scones, or cinnamon rolls for a complete sugary meal, or go the healthy route with sandwiches and salads from nearby La Brioche. The Java Den is closed on the weekends, so it's a good place to stop if you need a little warmth on your way to or coming home from work. The store is located at 1022 W. Johnson St. Cafe Domestique Cafe Domestique doubles as a thriving coffee shop and bike cafe, offering a home for all of Madison's cyclists to gather and talk shop. Their hot chocolate comes in a respectable 12-ounce size and features a rich, creamy texture. To double up on your chocolate consumption, try pairing it with a chocolate chip cookie for added flavor. Stop by 1408 Williamson St. any day of the week to take advantage of all this great cafe has to offer. Madison is truly a hot spot for all things chocolate. Capitalize on this during the next cold day by stopping at one of these locations that offer the best hot chocolate in the city.   “ Hot Chocolate with Cinamon” via Flickr by Theo Crazzolara. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

Wisconsin is a state with plenty to offer for tourists and locals alike. It's the birthplace of Harley Davidson and home to some of the best and most diverse breweries in the country, but nothing symbolizes what the state has to offer better than its famous cheese. With around 60 artisan makers and over 600 different types of cheese, it's an enthusiast's dream. Here are the places around Madison, Wisconsin, where you can get the finest cheese. more Fromagination This classic-looking shop with a European feel was opened back in 2007 by a local cheese lover who wanted to showcase the wonderful local cheesemaking traditions. Visitors not only get to fill their bags and stomachs with diverse and incredibly tasty dairy products but are also taken on a journey of discovery. They get to see where and how everything is made but also learn about the people who make all those delicious Midwestern treats. The vast variety of cheese types means that not only is there something here for everyone, but you may also discover new favorites among the cheeses that you haven't tried yet. Fromagination has cheese that's made out of cow, goat, or sheep milk, as well as other varieties such as cheddar cheese or traditional Dutch Gouda cheese. They also haven't forgotten about lovers of smelly cheese, with a nice selection of aromatic delights. L'Etoile Restaurant Aside from places where you can buy cheese to eat at home, restaurants that cook delicious meals using local farm-produced ingredients also should not be missed. L'Etoile is a perfect example of such a place. This charming restaurant uses over 200 local suppliers for their meat, fruits, vegetables, and of course, dairy products. L'Etoile is proud to offer many different types and flavors of cheese produced by local artisan cheese makers, having established many fruitful relationships over the years. The restaurant's bar offers cheese plates for anyone to try, featuring styles and flavors such as nutty cave-aged cheeses, creamy blues, or fresh chèvres. The Speckled Hen Inn If you're in a hurry you stop by a cheese shop and if you have some time you visit a cheese-oriented restaurant. However, for a truly authentic Wisconsin cheese tasting experience, it's best that you spend at least one night in a local bed and breakfast. The Speckled Hen Inn is a great place for that and, aside from the charming guest rooms and breathtaking natural décor, they're also famous for their delicious breakfast exclusively made with locally grown ingredients. Everything is local or homemade, from the fresh eggs delivered by the Inn's own hens to the fresh fruit and vegetables grown in their garden. Obviously, this includes a wonderful variety of cheeses produced by the area's very own skillful artisans. Wisconsin's history and traditions make it a wonderful place to live and to visit. However, you can't say you have fully experienced what the state has to offer until you try some of the many different types of delicious locally produced cheese, so get out there in a vehicle from Smart Motors Toyota and experience all of the beautiful cheese that Wisconsin has to offer.   “ Cheese” via Flickr by Steam Pipe Trunk Distribution Venue. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

The Madison, Wisconsin area is full of fun activities and events for visitors of all ages. The best part is that Madison also has a ton of free entertainment, allowing you to stay active with the family without breaking the bank. Whether you live in or around the Madison area, make sure to check out some of the best free activities you can enjoy. University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum The arboretum is over 1,200 acres of woodlands, savannahs, prairies, gardens, wetlands, and ecological communities showing all the beauty that the Madison area has to offer. Visitors are free to explore the area, and there are over 20 miles of trails that can be used for hiking and biking in the nice weather and skiing and snowshoeing when the snow begins to fall. more Madison Museum of Contemporary Art The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art offers free admission for visitors to get in from the cold and enjoy some amazing works of art or just take a stroll to find a little inspiration. The museum was designed by world-renowned architect Cesar Pelli and is known for its multiple learning opportunities for all ages and learning levels. You can enjoy various exhibits, film screenings, and special events throughout the year. Wisconsin State Capitol You can learn a little about the history of the area and enjoy the beautiful design of the historic Wisconsin State Capitol. The building is the only one in the United States with a granite dome. It's home to the state Legislature, the office of the Governor, and the state Supreme Court. You can enjoy free tours of the building to get an up-close view of the beautiful marble architecture and ornate mosaics. Kids in the Rotunda With free shows running every Saturday through April, the Kids in the Rotunda is held in the Overture Center for the Arts and offers free programs and performances designed for both children and their families. There are so many activities and shows to see such as magicians, dancers, a theater troupe, local and diverse musicians, storytellers, and jugglers. Madison Public Library The Madison Public Library has free admission all year-round, and you can also get a library card for free to check out books and use the computers. The library is designed to be family friendly with special unique reading nooks and The Bubble, which is an artist's studio where your kids can let loose and allow their imagination to soar. UW-Madison Geology Museum Another Madison area museum that offers free admission throughout the year is the University of Wisconsin-Madison Geology Museum. The museum is filled with unique geological displays such as meteorites, rocks, minerals, and even a fluorescent display. Children can also learn while enjoying dinosaur and fossil exhibits. The museum offers both self and guided tours as well as storytelling times. Keep your kids active when the cold weather comes without having to stretch your budget by enjoying one or more of the free activities that the Madison area has to offer.   “ Madison” via Flickr by Spiterman. Used with permission via CC BY-ND 2.0 / cropped from original