Madison is one of those big cities with a small town atmosphere. As the headquarters for the state government and the main branch of University of Wisconsin, a lot of people visit the city.
Yet, the city has a lot to offer people who just want a low cost Midwest getaway, too.
Where to Stay in Madison, Wisconsin
The city has many chain hotels, like Choice, Country Inn & Suites and Motel 6. Try the Microtel Inn or any other chain by East Towne Mall for low rates and ease of getting around town. The West Towne Mall area also has many low cost chains.
For those who don’t mind roughing it, there is the Hostelling International Madison (141 S. Butler), which is just a few blocks from the capital square. Campers will find tent and RV sites at the Madison KOA, as well as five county parks.
Where to Eat in Madison, Wisconsin
Like any major city, there are the usual chain and fast food restaurants. But if you want to try some of the local favorites, they’ve got plenty of those, too.
Rocky Rococo (several locations) makes some of the best pizza ever. Order by the whole pie (for a group) or just by the slice for a cheap and filling meal. Texas Tubbs Taco Palace (two locations) offers gourmet tacos with fillings like brisket, pulled chicken, pulled pork and seafood. They also offer other Tex-Mex favorites like burritos, quesadillas and a weekday afternoon happy hour. Great Dane Pub (three locations) offers a typical menu of burgers and sandwiches, but they also have their own line of microbrews.
For more options or to read some great impartial dining reviews, pick up the latest copy of the weekly alternative newspaper, The Isthmus.
What to Do In Madison, Wisconsin
Perhaps it’s because the city is a college town at heart that there are so many things to do while visiting that are not only fun but free or very low cost.
Nature lovers will enjoy strolling the 16-acre Olbrich Botanical Gardens (3330 Atwood Ave.). The outdoor areas are free, while the indoor conservatory is only a few dollars. The Henry Vilas Zoo (702 S. Randall Ave.) has everything from alligators to polar bears and is free, as well.
Live music is plentiful around Madison. Catch national touring acts at places like the Barrymore Theater (2090 Atwood Ave.) or the Majestic Theater (115 King St), where tickets are usually less than $30. Local clubs like High Noon Saloon (701 E. Washington Ave.) host local bands nightly for an average of $10 or less. In the summer, the University of Wisconsin’s Memorial Terrace sometimes offers free concerts and as a bonus, is a great place for people watching.
Those interested in unusual architecture should take a free tour of the state capitol building or the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Monona Terrace. Foodies will enjoy the weekly Farmer’s Market around the Square or a tour of the Capital Brewery (7734 Terrace Ave., Middleton).
For a dose of arts and culture, the Overture Center for the Arts (201 State St) has shows ranging from the Wisconsin Symphony to the Madison Ballet, along with concerts and live theater. Madison also has several museums worth visiting, including the Museum of Contemporary Art (227 State St), the Wisconsin Historical Museum (30 N. Carroll St.), and the Wisconsin Veterans Museum (30 W. Mifflin St.). Each costs $5 or less for admission.
Getting to Madison, Wisconsin
Madison is located in southern Wisconsin, where Interstates 90 and 94 meet. It is about a three to four hour drive from Chicago and Minneapolis.
It is easily accessed by air, via the Dane County Regional Airport, by several major airlines.
By bus, Greyhound, Badger Bus and MegaBus all have stops in Madison.
Madison is a delightful city to visit and with the above suggestions, it’s one that is easy on the wallet, too.
Michelle Snow - Michelle Snow been a freelance journalist and photographer for over twenty years, specializing in travel and entertainment. She got her ...
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