We know that Madison always gets compared to Milwaukee, but there’s no need for that! Both cities are great in their own right, and you won’t struggle to create memorable experiences in each one. Today, we’re going to talk about the fun experiences Madison has to offer.
1. Explore a Museum
Although Madison isn’t huge, it’s stuffed full of great museums. Whatever your interests, you’ll be able to find one that will satisfy your cultural craving. The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art (MMoCA) is a visitor favorite. The sculpture garden on the roof can’t be missed, and they frequently host a variety of events that are open to the public. If you’ve experienced enough art recently, you may want to try out the Wisconsin Historical Museum or the Geology Museum. The National Mustard Museum is a particularly fun choice.
2. Watch the Badgers
If you live in Madison, you know that the UW-Madison Badgers are a big deal and that their games can often turn into an event for the entire day. If braving the crowds to attend the game isn’t for you, you may be interested in watching from a bar with other fans. Regent Street is home to many bars that air the Badgers’ games, and fans say that the atmosphere can sometimes be even more fun than actually going in person.
3. Attend a Food Festival
Madison is well known for its love of food and drink so, of course, it hosts a bunch of festivals that are dedicated to filling people’s stomachs. Bratfest, which takes place Memorial Day weekend, can always be counted on to have excellent entertainment and, like you would expect, to sell a ton of brats.
If you love beer, Great Taste of the Midwest is the festival for you. Although it’s difficult to get tickets, the large selection of craft beers is worth the effort if you do. Another option is Yum Yum Fest, which appeals to upscale foodies and raises money for charity each year.
4. Support the Performing Arts
Madison has a robust performing arts community. The Overture Center for the arts hosts 10 different companies alone, and that’s not all Madison has to offer. Nationally touring comedians frequent the Comedy on State club, and when famous comedians aren’t available, open mic nights on Wednesdays are a fun way to spend an evening. Alternately, if you’re not in the mood for jokes, Wednesday evenings during the summers are when the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra plays concerts on Capitol Square. Attendees are invited to bring picnic blankets and relax while listening to the soothing sounds of a stunning orchestra.
This list is just a taste of what Madison has to offer. State Street, the Capitol, and The Majestic Theater are other fabulous options that are worth exploring. Don’t miss your chance to see as much of the city as possible. However you spend your time in Madison, you’re sure to get a unique experience that you won’t soon forget.
Street Food Festival via Flickr by StateofIsrael. Used with permission via CC BY-SA 2.0 / cropped from original
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