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The standard of quality you expect. It is never easy when you’re involved in an accident, and the last thing you want to worry about is if the body shop you choose to repair your vehicle will do a quality job. How can you ensure not only the quality of collision repair, but be assure the equipment, parts and technicians working on your vehicle are qualified professionals?  Simple. Certification. As a Toyota Certified Collision Center, Ball Body Shop – a division of Smart Motors, takes the risk out of collision repair through the rigorous Toyota certification process and on-going continuing education, equipment specifications, parts requirements, and continuous customer experience monitoring. Ball Body Shop | 2225 Eagle Drive, Middleton, WI | 608.831.5944 “It’s our commitment to excellence in collision repair professionalism, repair quality and customer satisfaction”, says Ball Body Shop manager James Anderberg. “Our staff is uniquely qualified to get the job done right, while at the same time, putting our customers at ease during what can be a stressful time for them.” Benefits of choosing a Toyota Certified Collision Center for your vehicle’s repairs are abundant and include: - Toyota Certified Technicians. - Toyota Certified Management team provides the knowledge and expertise to answer your question quickly, accurately and will help navigate the insurance process (if needed) so you and your vehicle are back on the road as quickly as possible. - State-of-the-art tools & equipment used to restore your vehicle to the original manufacturer specifications. - Genuine Toyota Parts. - Third-party customer service monitoring is used to ensure your experience is exceptional. You have the right to choose the body shop you want to repair your vehicle and choosing a Toyota Certified Collision Center is the easy choice.

Madison, WI is a beautiful city that is well known for putting on spectacular outdoor events during the summertime for people of all ages to enjoy. But with many places closed for the moment due to COVID-19, you'll have to find some alternative activities. Here are 5 of the best-hidden spots we found around the Madison area for you to enjoy. more 1. The Cliffs at Lake Mendota If you're searching for a place that's easily accessible but still feels hidden and out of the way, then visit the cliffs located within Wally Bauman Woods. The vantage point is secluded and looks out onto the beautiful scenery of Lake Mendota. If you're looking to seek out a little more thrill from this location, there are pathways that branch off to the right of the lake and lead to cliffs that are suitable for cliff diving and a rope swing that reaches out over the water. 2. The Lakeshore Nature Preserve With Wisconsin such a rich state in regards to preserved land and wildlife, it would be a shame to not explore some of the natural beauty Madison has to offer. The Lakeshore Nature Preserve is a great place to engage in nature, with a 4-mile stretch of accessible forest that is located on the shore of Lake Mendota, the largest and debatably the most stunning of all the lakes around Madison. 3. The Orchards at Picnic Point Picnic Point is a mile-long peninsula on the shore of Lake Mendota and is located within the Lakeshore Nature Preserve. This historical piece of land was made famous for its large apple orchard that was planted in the 1920s by a lumberman named Edward Young. The orchard has diminished with time, but you can still expect to see some trees bearing fruit and you might even spot some remnants of Youngs' mansion that burned down back in 1935. 4. Sunset Point Overlook in Hoyt Park If you're trying to find the perfect spot to unwind at the end of the day and enjoy the natural scenery around you, then we highly suggest visiting Sunset Point located within Hoyt Park. The overlook gives some great views of the surrounding woods, and there are some great picnic spots within the park where you can relax and enjoy a meal. 5. Olbrich Botanical Gardens and Pavilion The Olbrich Botanical Gardens and Pavilion is certainly one of the prettiest places to visit within Madison due to its array of tropical-like plants and bamboo that are normally never seen in northern states like Wisconsin. The pavilion stands as a symbol of unity between the Thai government and the University of Wisconsin, and the garden boasts some beautiful plants to admire as well as a reflection pool of water. With all of these hidden gems to choose from, we hope you found a spot that you can enjoy. Stop by Smart Motors Toyota today and we'll get you set up with a vehicle that'll allow you to go out and find even the most hidden of places. The dealership is located in Madison near Sun Prairie and Middleton, WI.

Did you know there are over 200 hiking trails near Madison, WI? Many of them are close to the city, ensuring that you can always get out and experience natural beauty. 1. Lake Monona Loop This popular trail is appropriate for walking, jogging, and cycling. The main pathway runs alongside the lakeshore, but there are plenty of side trails to keep the journey fresh. Along the way, you pass by Monona Terrace, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Olin Park is also accessible from the trail, a great place to catch your breath while you take in the view of Madison's skyline. Another fun stop along the loop is Olbrich Park where you can kick off your sneakers and run on the sandy beach. more 2. Devil's Lake State Park The park's 29 miles of trails are sure to challenge all levels of hikers. Beginners will enjoy the easy trail leading down to the base of the bluff. On hot days, a grotto awaits those who want to cool off. More experienced hikers will want to climb the bluffs. These rocky trails can be challenging and steep, but the views that await are some of the most rewarding in the region. Just remember that trails are not maintained during the winter and to use extra caution. 3. Lower Yahara River Trail This 2.5-mile trail connecting Madison to McFarland is scenic. The path begins as a paved one and winds through woodlands, farmlands, and prairies. Wildlife enthusiasts should be on the lookout for eagles, cranes, and other waterfowl. The path soon reaches the longest pedestrian and cyclist boardwalk bridge in the state. Constructed alongside the railroad track, this boardwalk bridge crosses the northern shore of Lake Waubesa. The trail ends at the village of McFarland, where hikers can replenish at one of the many local eateries. 4. University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum The University is known for conservation and reconstruction and visitors can see some of their efforts on the 1200 acre grounds. Start with the visitor's center to learn about what the University does. Then pick from 17 different trails that wind through various types of terrain. Visitors can hike through woodlands, wetlands, and savannas all while observing native plants and wildlife. It is not uncommon to see owls, turkeys, and squirrels. While the main road can be crowded, you can have many of the smaller side paths to yourself. 5. Ice Age Trail This trail is wonderful to visit in all seasons, especially during the winter when folks enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.  The entire trail spans 1,200 miles, but there is a 3-mile segment near Madison. Steeped in history, the trail follows the edge of where a prehistoric glacier once existed.  Nowadays, the only evidence left behind is the region's lakes, river valleys, and hills. After a long hike, there's nothing better than driving comfortably home. If your car isn't getting the job done, consider a new or used Toyota. Stop by Smart Toyota today and test drive one of our many exciting models. Come and experience our award-winning service today. We proudly serve drivers throughout the greater Madison, WI area, including Sun Prairie, Middleton, and beyond.

A visit to the Wisconsin State Capitol can now be scheduled. Groups of ten or more can set up a tour of the historic building, and we've listed a few things to keep in mind. 1. Keep up With City Covid-19 Guidelines The highlights are that cloth masks are required indoors, feeling sick is a reliable sign that you should stay home, and public water fountains and restrooms are closed. These city guidelines are subject to change, so check before you head out. more In addition to making sure you know the requirements, make sure your group does too. Regardless of personal views, the rules will need to be followed. Don't be the group that's asked to leave for breaking them. 2. Keep an Eye Out for Fossils Several naturally occurring fossils can be found in and around the capitol building. From starfish to gastropods, you won't want to miss these ancient artifacts in the halls. To be exact, there are eight fossils. How many can you find on your tour? You don't need to worry about missing any, because your guide will know exactly where they are. 3. Pictures Are Allowed Art and beauty fill the grounds. A picture lasts forever, so take one! Take as many as you like and show off to your friends and family who miss the trip. You may be tempted to relive your college Intro to Photography class when capturing images of the iconic statues and architecture. Pictures are allowed, but if you don't want to run out of space, you may need to have a spare memory card. There's nothing more frustrating than being halfway through your tour when you get the 'low memory' alert. 4. Ask Questions The guides are trained to answer any and all questions you might have. If you're curious about something it's their job to know. Keeping questions to yourself means you're going to be left unsatisfied with your experience, and your guide underutilized. If you're looking for things to ask about, there are decorative pediments on all four sides of the building. A fire destroyed most of the building, but most of the library was saved. You can ask about the restoration that took 24 years to complete. There's so much history here that an endless supply of questions can be found with minimal research. 5. Show up in Style Nothing says VIP visitor like pulling up in a gorgeous car. The best way to accomplish this is with a brand new one, with that new car sheen. If you are looking for a vehicle that will impress or just need an upgrade, then head down to Smart Motors, the Toyota Dealer of Wisconsin, to pick up your new car. An arrival that will impress is waiting for you!

Lately, it's been a little hard trying to connect with nature outside of watching a David Attenborough documentary or playing Animal Crossing: New Horizons. With fall weather making the days comfortably cool, perhaps it's time to visit the Olbrich Botanical Gardens and experience nature in person. A Brief History of the Olbrich Botanical Gardens Intended as a way to preserve public access to Lake Monona from increasing residential development, Michael B. Olbrich began purchased the land around Starkweather Creek with plans to build an expansive park and municipal garden center. Sadly, Olbrich did not live to see his idea into action. In 1952, Madison Park Commission began work on creating the Botanical Gardens. Today there are 16 acres filled with multiple outdoor gardens as well as a conservatory that houses a tropical paradise year-round. more The Outdoor Gardens The Olbrich Gardens has 16 acres of outdoor garden displays. Each garden area has been designed to showcase the beauty of each plant as well as delight the senses of those who walk through them. Every season hosts a breathtaking display; whether its bulbs in the spring, annuals, and perennials during the summer, mums and swaying grasses in the fall, or evergreens dusted with snow in the winter. Don't forget to visit the Thai Pavillion while you're there: a gorgeous structure that was a gift from the Thai Government and one of only four located outside of Thailand. The Bolz Conservatory Even in the dead of winter, you can still see exotic plants in full bloom and bask in the tropical environment within the conservatory. Free-flying birds and, during certain parts of the year, butterflies flit throughout the glass enclosure. Banana plants, vanilla producing orchids, and coffee bearing shrubs mingle with carnivorous plants and waterfalls. Hours of Operation, Admission Fee, and Other Information During October, the outdoor gardens and the conservatory are open from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm Sunday through Saturday. Starting November 1, both are open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm Sunday through Saturday. The outdoor gardens are free of charge, though donations are always appreciated. The conservatory charges $6.00 but has free admission for those that are 5 years and younger or if they are Olbrich Botanical Society members. New procedures have been introduced to help keep staff and guests safe and to ensure proper physical distancing in accordance with the CDC and Wisconsin Department of Health. It's never a bad idea to call ahead or visit their website to see the current procedures and guidelines since they are always subject to change. While you're in the area, stop by Smart Motors Toyota and test drive a car. We're happy to help you find a new or used car that will fit your needs. We're also the only official Toyota Rent A Car provider in the Madison, Wisconsin area. Our hours are Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, Friday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

It's no secret that Madison loves coffee. You can hardly turn a corner without finding a cafe, bakery, restaurant, or coffeehouse that offers you your caffeine fix. We all have our favorites, but if you've been looking for a new spot to try, we've got a few you should check out. Grace Coffee Co. (417 State St) This quaint and comfy shop is a local favorite that's currently serving up seasonal treats like pumpkin cardamom chai latte. The place has a very relaxed vibe and excellent pour-over coffee that is a must-taste-to-believe. The açaí bowls come highly recommended, as well. Finca Coffee (2500 Rimrock Rd, Ste 105) Though its location is kind of off the beaten path, it is most certainly worth the trip. Finca, in Central America, is Spanish for farm--which is where it all begins for Finca Coffee. They use direct fair trade practices to purchase directly from farms in El Salvador and bring it here to share their culture with their customers directly. more Ledger Coffee Roasters (3241 Garver Green, Ste 140) Incredible coffee!” “Delicious coffee,” “...extra special...delectable and unique.” “Love, love, love this place!” As a staple of the Garver Feed Mill, Ledger Coffee Roasters specializes in precisely prepared small-batch coffee that is roasted locally in town, and we think the reviews say it all. “Their coffee is SO delicious!” We could go on, or you could just go and try it for yourself. Bradbury's (127 N Hamilton St) An adorable little coffee shop/ breakfast joint, Bradbury's provides great customer service and has amazing coffees that are strong and creamy. They offer a flavor-of-the-day, usually from Ruby roasters, and every blend is simply delicious. Free WiFi and Apple-pay are also available. Crave Coffee & Donuts (604 University Ave) While the gourmet donuts are most famous here, without the high-quality coffee they wouldn't be the same. Created fresh for you with excellent barista service, this place is going to make your day a little brighter, for certain. Fair Trade Coffee House (418 State St) Just a few blocks down from the Capital Square and Overture Center, Fair Trade Coffee House is serving up fair trade certified coffee and espressos. Every barista has been trained to pull perfect shots in your triple espresso and they can steam the milk perfectly for an extra dry cappuccino. They put in extra effort here and you will notice the difference. Rusty Dog Coffee (3244 Progress Rd) Founded in 2013, Rusty Dog Coffee is a small, local craft coffee roaster that is owned and operated by three good friends and their families. Their coffee is always fresh and never artificially flavored. Their coffee can be found all around town at a variety of restaurants, retailers, and other local businesses, but you can swing by and pick up some to bring home while you're out and about during your day. As a premier Wisconsin Toyota dealer, we have a wide selection of both new and used vehicles--all that have great cup holders for your coffee. We're located in Madison, WI and proudly serve drivers throughout the Middleton and Sun Prairie areas. Visit Smart Motors Toyota today to find a great vehicle that can get you to all the coffee spots your heart desires.

State Street in Madison is an outdoor public space where locals, tourists, and college students mingle and enjoy each other's company on any given day. It's a place where the community can come together for a meal, a drink, or some shopping. Closed to traffic, this area is also excellent for taking a walk or a bike ride. People Watching This little strip of community fun offers some of the best opportunities for watching people that you are likely to find anywhere. You will see families spending time together, couples strolling hand in hand, and people leading their dogs along the sidewalk. You will also find groups of college students connecting between classes and office workers grabbing a bite to eat or some exercise during the day. more Capital Building The State Capital building stands on one end of the street and offers a view of its attractive architecture. Take a tour of the building to learn about state government and the history of Madison and Wisconsin. University of Wisconsin-Madison Spend some time walking around on the beautiful campus of the university where many students learn, live, and play each day. You'll find shady places to sit and relax and plenty of history to explore. Maybe you'll even be inspired to go back to school yourself! Madison Museum of Contemporary Art The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art is a space where you will find the work of a number of different artists. Some of the artists showcased are famous people legendary in the art world, while others are relative newcomers. With the wide variety of art available to see, you are sure to find something that speaks to you. Unique Shopping The shopping on State is eclectic, and there's a little something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a new outfit, something for your home, or touristy souvenirs to bring home from your trip, you'll find it here. Supporting small community shops is a great way of giving back to this town. Fun Restaurants From cozy cafes to upscale eateries, there's a restaurant for every taste along this street. Take the family out for burgers, or spend time with adults at a bar. You will find excellent food and a good time no matter what you choose. Farmers Market The Farmers Market near the capital building is famous for its huge display and unique options. Shop one of the many booths for some wonderful locally grown food or for craft items made in the area. You will also find signs teaching you about the area's dairy farming and how cheese is made. You will learn something new about Wisconsin and be able to taste some of what makes this state so wonderful when you visit the market. State Street is an excellent place to gather with friends or family, and it's a perfect spot for locals and tourists alike. Visit Smart Motors Toyota for information on the perfect car that will take you around Madison and on adventures beyond. Image via SteadyContent

There is no better time to get out and go for a hike than right now. People who love the outdoors and enjoy exploring new hiking trails can enjoy the hundreds of miles of trails to check out within a short drive from Madison. This Wisconsin city has five different lakes with trails surrounding each of them, and there are over 200 parks with both hiking and walking trails, along with state parks and rec areas. Discover the best places to hike near Madison. The UW Madison Arboretum Trails If you're up for a challenge but don't want to leave the city, head to the UW Madison Arboretum Trails. You can explore the over 17 miles of trails that cover woodlands, savannas, wetlands, and prairies, and wind through the world-renowned ecosystem right on campus. Even though the Arboretum is part of the university, the trail system is open to the public. Explore the trails on your own or take advantage of the guided nature walks that are available. more Blue Mound State Park Blue Mound State Park sits just 25 miles west of Madison and well worth the short drive if you want to experience some of Madison's best hiking. The park sits in the southern part of Wisconsin and features over 20 miles of hiking trails, with many that offer one-of-a-kind views. The Indian Marker Tree Trail is an easy, hiking-only trail and takes you on a short walk to a century-old oak tree. A little longer trail is the Flintrock Nature trail. This runs for 1.3 miles and features signs with information about many of the flowers and plants you might see as you walk. The Badger State Trail The Badger State Trail covers 40 miles and runs from Madison all the way to Illinois. With several places along the way to access the trail, it's a nice place for a day hike because you can make it as long or as short as you want. The trail runs through some small towns and has easy access to local restaurants if you want to stop for lunch. Along the way, you'll get to see ravines, hills, and farmland with some nice scenic views too. This trail connects to the Capital City trail, along with Military Ridge, and the Sugar River state trails along with the Madison bikeway system. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail The Ice Age Trail runs for about 1,200 miles and traces the end of the last glacier running from east to west and north to south. The entire trail sits in the state of Wisconsin, with some segments within the Madison area. The Valley View segment covers 1.8 miles, and the Madison segment runs for 32 miles. The trailhead on Ice Age Lane has one place to access the hike with roadside parking available. These are just a few places for hikes in and around Madison. Make sure to pack food and water, have a compass, and make sure someone knows where you'll be going before you head out. Image by Mike Goad from Pixabay

Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison features over 16 acres of outdoor gardens along with an indoor tropical paradise. It is home to the only Thai Pavilion in the continental U.S. and is a winner of the national Garden of Excellence Award. Guests can stroll through the gardens or take the accessible tram that travels from garden to garden either on the weekends or daily, depending on the season. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful sites at the Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison. The Rose Garden Make sure to take your time exploring the Rose Garden at Olbrich. This is one of the most popular gardens. It covers 2 acres and features a wide variety of roses of all colors and sizes on display. It also has ornamental trees, spring blooms, and annuals to see while you wander through. The Prairie-style design of the Rose Garden features simple geometric designs made from natural materials. The most prominent feature in the Rose Garden is the Rose Garden Tower. It is a two-story tower offering visitors who climb up spectacular views of the garden and more. more Thai Pavilion and Garden The Thai Pavilion and Garden is unlike any garden you will see in the continental United States. The sala, or pavilion, is a traditional Thai structure, but the one you'll see at Olbrich is more ornate than most salas you would see in Thailand. The garden that surrounds the pavilion is lush and tropical with hearty plants that can withstand the Wisconsin climate. Some of the ornamental grasses reach up to 12 feet tall, and you'll also see many bamboo plants that are essential for this tropical garden. You'll also find glazed water jars and clipped tree art known as mai dat throughout the gardens that represent a traditional horticulture feature in gardens throughout Thailand. The Sunken Garden The Sunken Garden is another unique garden at Olbrich. It is a traditional formal English-style garden surrounded by shrub hedges and limestone terraces. All of these elements give guests in the Sunken Garden the feeling that they're in an outdoor room. An 80-foot long reflecting pool is a key feature in this garden, while the border features mixed flowering bulbs in a variety of colors and shrubs that bloom starting in the spring and offer their beautiful colors until late in the autumn. Tours Olbrich offers a variety of different tour experiences, from adult-only tours to self-guided visits for groups and guided garden strolls. The adult group tours give visitors an inside look at the outdoor gardens and require a reservation. The guided garden strolls are more relaxed and available for drop-ins only. The volunteer-led tour provides a casual overview of the gardens, and if you prefer to explore the gardens on your own, you are always welcome to wander through the gardens at your own pace. Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a must-see for anyone who lives in or visits Madison. Make sure to stop by the gift shop after your visit, and also check the schedule for any special events. Image by Mike Goad from Pixabay

Madison, Wisconsin, is keeping with a long heritage of beer history with the many craft breweries that call the city home. There are many breweries in town to explore, but if you're looking for somewhere to start, you can't go wrong with these staples: Ale Asylum No list of Madison craft breweries would be complete with a nod to Ale Asylum. The funky-fresh interior, complete with leather couches and pinball machines, lends itself very well to enhance your enjoyment of the top-notch brews that Ale Asylum creates. For starters, get a glass of their Ambergeddon amber ale, the accessible Hopalicious American pale ale, or the Ballistic IPA. Ale Asylum's taproom has an impressive variety to choose from, so you're sure to find something to satisfy your palate at this local-favorite brewery. more Working Draft Beer Company Working Draft Beer Company's minimalist and hip style offers a great experience for those exploring Madison's brewery scene. Working Draft prides itself in its sense of community, and you'll find local artists' works, live acoustic music, and poetry readings in the taproom. You'll also find a great selection of brews, from the Pulp Culture hazy IPA to the European Vacay Munich Dunkel. This brewery takes itself just seriously enough that beer pros will stay interested and newcomers to the craft beer world will feel welcome. Karben4 The strange-yet-tasty Karben4 Brewing is a great place to spend an hour or two with friends. In addition to delicious craft brews, their taproom also offers great artisan-inspired food to pair with your favorite beer. As far as beer varietals go, Karben4 has the usual suspects and then some: IPAs, chocolate oatmeal stouts, imperial red ales, English-style ales, pale ales, and more. Once you've found your favorite Karben4 brew, be sure to take a six-pack of it home. ALT Brew ALT Brew has all your gluten-free beer needs covered with their creations. None of their beers are made with gluten, which means that everyone can have a great time at this brewery. ALT Brew doesn't need gluten to make some of Madison's most interesting Kolsch, blondes, farmhouse ales, porters, IPAs, and more. Be sure to come back to ALT Brew every season to try their four special releases throughout the year. Funk Factory Geuzeria Funk Factory Geuzeria is one of the most highly rated breweries in Madison, and for good reason. The beers this brewery produces are some of the most interesting and experimental in Madison. You'll find quite a few barrel-aged beers at this brewery, some mixed with wine grapes and berries. If you're a fan of lambics, Funk Factory is where you need to be. You'll also find a great selection of wild ales and farmhouse ales to choose from at this one-of-a-kind brewery. From the most hop-infused brewery critic to the casual craft beer drinker just looking for their next favorite, these Madison breweries are sure to satisfy. Explore what each has to offer and then expand your tour of the Madison brewery world to find your next go-to haunt. Image by Tibor Janosi Mozes from Pixabay

With so many people worried about being in public, it's a wonder that more people haven't picked up hiking. If you're looking for a great hiking trail in the Madison, Wisconsin, area, here are a few you should check out. Picnic Point Marsh Loop Trail The 2-mile Picnic Point Marsh Loop Trail is an easy hike right in Madison's Shorewood Hills. This trail is flanked nearly completely by Lake Mendota, offering great lakeside views to one side and forest on the other. Its location makes it one of the more popular hikes in the city, but if you avoid peak times, it can be a great escape. Since it's a loop trail with only an 88-foot elevation gain, this is a great trail for beginners and families. more Devil's Lake Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail On the other side of the hiking difficulty spectrum, the Ice Age National Scenic Trail will make you work for your progress. The entire trail is 1,200 miles long, but if you're looking for a good section hike near Madison, check out the Devil's Lake Segment. This part of the greater trail is 13 miles long, beginning near the intersection of County Highway DL and 113 and ending at the southern border of Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area. With an elevation gain of nearly 2,000 feet, you'll want to bring out the hiking boots for this trek. UW-Madison Arboretum Trails If you have an ecological and zoological interest in hiking, head to the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum. Over 17 miles of trails in this protected area will take you through a wildly interesting display of Wisconsin's many ecosystems and terrains, from prairies and wetlands to savannas and woodlands. The trails are made up of fairly easy-going footpaths and boardwalks that allow visitors to immerse themselves in Wisconsin's natural environments. Holy Wisdom Monastery Trails That's right; the Holy Wisdom Monastery near the northwest shore of Lake Mendota is a worthy hiking destination. The monastery has a focus on natural preservation, which has left visitors with about 4 miles of trails to walk. These nature trails are great for the leisurely hiker looking for a bit of serenity away from the city. Lake Monona Loop Also known as the Capital City Trail, Lake Monona Loop is 13.8 miles long and right in Madison's backyard. As its name suggest, the trail loops around Lake Monona in downtown Madison, offering great cityscape and waterfront views. If you're looking for a paved path to get in a good trail run, the Lake Monona Loop is a great option. With the lake to one side and beautiful residences on the other, this loop is the perfect city-bound trail. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or you just want to get out of the house for a little while, each of these Madison-area hikes is well worth the visit. Cross each off your hiking bucket list to start experiencing everything Wisconsin's natural beauty has to offer. Image by Yinan Chen from Pixabay

Madison is known for a few key things; it's the capital city of Wisconsin and is the home of the University of Wisconsin. However, it's also a place that houses a number of unique and fascinating attractions. Check out these unusual spots to learn more about the city and its history. Lamp House The Robert M. Lamp House, also known as Lamp House, is a unique structure in the heart of the city's downtown area. Many Madison residents don't realize that a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home sits in their midst, as it's one of Wright's forgotten designs. If you can find it, you'll see some of the hallmarks of the famed architect's traditional style. It stands out in the neighborhood because of its blocky style and bold red accents that surround the windows. The home isn't open to visitors, although you can drive or walk by to see it in person. more L.R. Ingersoll Physics Museum The L.R. Ingersoll Physics Museum is located on the campus of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Two science professors at the university came up with the idea for the museum in the early 20th century, and when it opened in 1918 it was the first museum in the country to focus specifically on physics. It is named for one of its founding professors, Leonard R. Ingersoll, and showcases exhibits designed by the faculty and constructed by the students in the school's science department. Each exhibit provides a hands-on experience of a physical concept, so it's appealing to both children and adults. Admission is free and guided tours are available for groups. Elvis Karate Fight Plaque The Elvis Karate Fight Plaque sits in an area of Madison where “The King” once broke up a fight. After arriving in the city to perform a show, Elvis was being chauffeured in a limousine. At the corner of East Washington Avenue and Highway 51, two men were fighting on the street. Elvis had his driver stop the car and he got out to stop the fight. A bystander recalls that Elvis took a karate stance and threatened to take both of the fighters on, effectively ending the fight. A crowd of fans gathered when news traveled that he was there, and Elvis waved to the crowd and went on his way. Lost City Forest Lost City Forest is also within Madison's city limits, located on the southeast corner of the arboretum on the University of Wisconsin campus. In the 1920s, Madison was growing quickly, resulting in a need for more housing. The Lake Forest Land Company planned to construct a new housing development in this area, only to find that the marshy land was sucking up foundations and other components needed for sturdy homes. The plans were abandoned, leaving behind a forested area in the middle of the city. Both visitors to the city and long-time residents will enjoy spending some time at these unique Madison attractions. This weekend, make a plan to get out and explore the city. Image by Karen Arnold from Pixabay