Know Before You Go
Bike stations are open seasonally from early spring to late autumn. Download the BCycle mobile app to find one of 500 e-bikes at 80 stations: http://www.bcycle.com/app

Special Deals & Discounts
Use BCycle code "BIKEMADISON" for 1/2 off a single ride pass!

Explore the bike capital of the Midwest with an all-electric bike share experience! View a map of all stations here: https://madison.bcycle.com/nav/map

The closest Bcycle station to Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center is at W. Wilson & MLK. Access the Lake Loop bike trail by taking the elevator to the ground level behind Monona Terrace. The closest Bcycle station to Alliant Energy Center is at the Sheraton Hotel at 1702 Rimrock Road.

Want to extend your ride while redeeming discounts at local businesses and earning prizes? Check out Madison By Bike: https://www.visitmadison.com/madison-by-bike/

Know Before You Go
Free admission.

Want to be inspired by incredible art during your trip to Madison? The Chazen, home to the second-largest collection of art in Wisconsin, presents collections that range from ancient times to the present day, as well as temporary exhibitions, tours and cultural events. Open seven days a week!

Know Before You Go
View more info on the season lineup here: https://wcoconcerts.org/concerts-tickets/concerts-on-the-square

If you're lucky enough to be in Madison during the summertime, be sure to check out Concerts on the Square, a six-concert series and Madison tradition that draws tens of thousands each year. For six glorious evenings every summer, Madison locals slow down to sip, savor and soak up beautiful live orchestral music put on by the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra. This tradition has been going strong since 1983.

2025 Performance Schedule (Wednesdays):

• Dancing in the Street - June 25, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.

• Celebration of Liberty - July 2, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.

• American Song - July 9, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.

• Mozart & Mahler - July 16, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.

• Dark Side of the Moon - July 23, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.

• Shostakovich & Beethoven - July 30, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.

Groups can even reserve a table at Concerts on the Square on a first come, first served basis. Learn more about this unique experience here: https://wcoconcerts.org/concerts-tickets/concerts-on-the-square/concerts-tables

Visit our blog to find out how to do Concerts on the Square like a local: https://www.visitmadison.com/blog/stories/post/how-to-do-concerts-on-the-square-like-a-local/

Know Before You Go
The Saturday Market is the full market on the Capitol Square, open Saturdays, April 12 through November 8, 2025, 6:15 a.m. – 1:45 p.m. More info here: https://dcfm.org/markets/saturday-on-the-square

The Wednesday Market is a smaller farmers' market located on the 200 block of Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., open Wednesdays, April 23 through November 5, 2025, 8:30 a.m. – 1:45 p.m. More info here: https://dcfm.org/markets/wednesday-market

About the Market
Did you know that Madison is home to the largest producer-only farmers' market in the U.S.? Experience the Dane County Farmers’ Market on Saturdays and Wednesdays during the market season! You’ll find the season’s best bounty of vegetables, flowers, meats, cheeses and specialty products from approximately 260 vendors throughout the year. All of the items for sale are grown, raised, and produced in Wisconsin by the person behind the stand.

Fun fact: It's customary to walk the market counterclockwise. Just follow the flow of foot traffic!

Located in downtown Madison, James Madison Park is a 12-acre waterfront park bordering Lake Mendota. Take a relaxing stroll between meeting sessions to refresh the mind and body. On nice days, it's not uncommon to see at least a few pick-up games of soccer and frisbee in the open grassy area. The park is also home to the historic Gates of Heaven, which provides a beautiful location for weddings and other gatherings, and complements the park's peaceful atmosphere. 

Know Before You Go
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Free admission each Thursday evening,  4 – 8 p.m. For guests’ safety, children must be accompanied by a chaperone age 16 or older.

With one-of-a-kind interactive exhibits, daily activities and year-round special events, there is always something to do at Madison Children's Museum. Come see where children, newborn through age 12, bring grown-ups for a day of play! Be sure to check out the Rooftop Ramble—a fully accessible four-season exhibit and community space on the roof of the museum with a focus on sustainability and outdoor exploration. Bonus: It also offers one of the best views of the Capitol Building!

Know Before You Go
Free admission. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Gallery spaces are temporarily closed to the public from April 7 – May 1, 2025.

Housed in a soaring, César Pelli designed building, MMoCA provides free exhibitions and education programs that engage people in modern and contemporary art. The four galleries offer changing exhibitions that feature established and emerging artists. The Rooftop Sculpture Garden provides a respite and inspiring view.

Know Before You Go
Open seasonally from early spring to early fall. View current hours here: https://union.wisc.edu/visit/hours/

View dining and drink options here: https://union.wisc.edu/dine/find-food-and-drink

A visit to the UW–Madison campus isn't complete without a stop at Memorial Union Terrace. Enjoy incredible views of Lake Mendota, drop in for summer music and films. and watch the sun set while relaxing in the Terrace's iconic sunburst chairs. There are several food and drink spots in Memorial Union making it easy to grab a beer or a bite, including from Madison icons Essen Haus and Babcock Dairy. Enjoy ice cream and other dairy treats made right on campus. No reservations needed—just enter along the east side of Memorial Union. 

Know Before You Go
Free admission to the Overture Galleries, open Thursday through Sunday.

View current exhibits and events here: https://www.overture.org/engage/galleries/

Overture Center features seven state-of-the-art performance spaces and four galleries. Stop by the James Watrous Gallery, located on Overture Center's third floor, which is dedicated to Wisconsin artists. Learn more about this gallery here: https://www.overture.org/engage/galleries/james-watrous-gallery/

Bascom Hill is an iconic quad that forms the historic core of the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus. It is named after John Bascom, former president of the University of Wisconsin. Bascom Hall, the campus' main administrative building, is located here, along with several other campus buildings.

A heritage marker, titled “Our Shared Future,” is near the top of Bascom Hill and recognizes the land as the ancestral home of the Ho-Chunk, acknowledges the circumstances that led to their forced removal and honors the history of the Ho-Chunk Nation.

Take a stroll at Bascom Hill and soak in the culture and history of this iconic place in Madison.

Fun fact: Bascom Hill is the site of "Battle for Bascom," an epic snowball fight tradition between the Southeast and the Lakeshore residence halls. It is also the site of "Fill the Hill," a fundraising tradition that started with a prank but still takes place every October. Learn more about this tradition and why Madisonians have a quirky love for pink plastic flamingos.

Know Before You Go
Access the Monona Terrace rooftop via the ramp or take the elevator to level 6.

Want to experience the best 360-degree views of Madison? Check out the Monona Terrace Rooftop Garden, located on the top level of the Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center. The rooftop offers numerous tables and ample shady seating for visitors looking to take in some of the best views of Lake Monona and the city skyline. The rooftop is also complimented by the William T. Evjue Rooftop Gardens, blooming with gorgeous native plants, and the Lake Vista Café (open seasonally) which offers casual gourmet fare in a comfortable outdoor setting.

Know Before You Go
Free admission. Free tours are offered daily, year round, excluding some holidays. Plan on spending 45-55 minutes for a tour. The sixth floor museum and observation deck are open during the summer months. Groups of 10 or more can make an online reservation for a tour of the State Capitol or call 608-266-0382. More info here: https://tours.wisconsin.gov/Default.aspx

Visit the State Capitol Building to experience the rich history of Wisconsin's diverse ethnic heritage on a free guided tour or explore on your own. Step inside this iconic building to view beautiful mosaics and towering marble columns. While you're there, try to spot the fossils embedded into the walls, including starfish and gastropods!

The Observation Deck is open from Memorial Day through the first week of November. It's the perfect spot to capture a photo, take in 360 views of the lake-city-lake landscape or witness the Dane County Farmers' Market from above.

Know Before You Go
Free admission. Closed on Mondays.

Located on the Capitol Square, this award-winning museum will connect you with Wisconsin's men and women in military service from the Civil War to present day. The Wisconsin Veterans Museum is a Smithsonian Affiliate and an educational activity of the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs.

Need an offsite work space or coffee/tea to fuel your day? This locally-owned café and bakery serves up creative drinks and brunch offerings 7 days per week. Customer favorites include the chorizo hash and honey-sriracha bacon egg sandwiches. Indulge in expertly pulled espresso sourced from fair trade organic beans in the comfort of their spacious shop located in downtown Madison, right off the Capitol square.

Fun fact: Ancora has called King St. home for over 25 years!

Know Before You Go
Closed on Mondays. Open for lunch Wednesday through Sunday.

Ahan (meaning "food" in Lao) is a culinary experience with a mission to celebrate the heritage of traditional culinary wisdom. Ahan combines these traditions with modern techniques to bring Asian-inspired dishes to the restaurant scene in Madison, using locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy unique, global flavors and dishes served up by two-time James Beard award semifinalist, Chef Jamie Brown-Soukaseume.

Named after Audrey Munson, who modeled for the statue on top of the State Capitol Building, The Audrey Kitchen + Bar offers a collection of classic and progressive cocktails, alongside a menu of lighter fare, tasty shareables and after-five entrees. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served daily and late night bites are available at the bar after 10 p.m. Space for semi-private groups is available in the Munson room for up to 12 guests.

Know Before You Go
Open for lunch Friday through Sunday. Hours vary by season; please visit the website for current hours: https://boathousemadison.com/

It's hard to beat the beautiful view of Lake Mendota from The Boathouse, located at lake level at The Edgewater Hotel. Enjoy great company with burgers, brats, a classic fish fry and the best selection of cold craft beers.

Know Before You Go
Open for lunch Saturday and Sunday.

Centro is an Italian restaurant that combines Old World Italian traditions with modern techniques. Their mission is to capture Italian simplicity, passion and history and bring it to guests at Cento in an eclectic yet contemporary setting. Translating to “100” in Italian, the significance behind Cento’s name (pronounced Chento), lies in their location. They are on the bustling 100 block of downtown Madison, on the corner of Mifflin and Fairchild.

They are also located directly across the street from the Overture Center for the Arts, making it a great spot to grab dinner and a glass of wine before watching a show performance. Visit their website for their three-course theater menu offering!

Know Before You Go
Closed on Mondays.

Johnny Delmonico's is an upscale steakhouse and cocktail bar with a wine list to match. Walk through the doors and feel transported to an era of Art Deco, with sleek booths and a gorgeous mahogany bar, tall windows and crisp linens. Call ahead to host your work gathering or offsite event in their private dining room, which comfortably seats up to 40 guests.

Know Before You Go
Open seasonally. Closed on Mondays. Weather permitting, Lake Vista Café typically is open May through September for lunch and dinner. Visit their website for current menus and hours: https://www.mononaterrace.com/experience-monona-terrace/lake-vista-cafe/

Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Monona and downtown Madison’s cityscape at Lake Vista Café, located at the William T. Evjue Rooftop Gardens at Monona Terrace. Relax with a glass of wine and an assortment of appetizers and sandwiches in a gourmet-casual atmosphere. 

Know Before You Go
Open for lunch Thursday through Sunday.

Lucille is a tri-level fresh cocktail, craft beer, pizza and shared platter venue. This spacious venue has plenty of room for larger groups seeking tasty drinks and bites. Try the steel pan pizza, a Wisconsin take on a Detroit classic, and the steel pan nachos! The restaurant is located at the gateway of Madison’s historic culinary and entertainment center – the First Settlement District.

Lucille's private lounge makes a fantastic meeting space for groups to gather in a stylish setting. A screen and projector can be set up to create a unique, communal meeting experience. It’s especially effective around happy hour, where attendees can grab a drink at the bar and enjoy a casual yet productive atmosphere.  

Parthenon Gyros is a third-generation Greek family-owned and operated restaurant with house-made gyros and Greek yogurt for tzatziki sauce. Enjoy meats seared to sizzling perfection, sliced off in thin, juicy layers and piled high on grilled pita bread.

Parthenon Gyros is a great option for those seeking a quick, late dinner due to their extended hours.

Whether you’re looking for a breakfast spot by the State Capitol Building, a professional setting to have a business lunch or a cocktail to end the night, you’ll find it at The Post. Visit for breakfast, lunch, dinner or drinks and enjoy their convenient location on the Capitol Square. Located at the Best Western Premier Park Hotel.

Dine with Sardine for a unique Madison experience with a beautiful view of Lake Monona. Their bistro-style dining features French and American cuisine including seafood hors d'oeuvres and unique dinner options. Locals love their Happy Hour featuring delicious East Coast oysters! More info here: http://sardinemadison.com/bar

Tornado Steak House is Madison’s premier downtown steakhouse offering white linen dining in a retro supper club atmosphere. Enjoy award-winning food including steaks, pork, duck, rabbit, lamb, seafood and fish specials.

Fun fact: The building dates back to 1850 but the space was built in 1957 as a supper club named Crandall's. When owner Henry Doane opened Tornado Steak House in 1996, he uncovered the '50s glamour behind layers of wall panel and carpeting.

Seeking a warm, friendly pub environment and local beers? Enter The Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co., a Madison staple since 1994! This establishment serves up award-winning craft beers alongside local and global pub fare prepared from scratch. Enjoy an ever-changing rotation of time-honored beer varieties alongside experimental brews, including cask-conditioned ales.

Know Before You Go
Closed on Mondays. Open for brunch Saturday and Sunday.

Wisconsin's finest ingredients meet global inspiration, culinary excellence and expertly-crafted cocktails at Heritage Tavern. Owner/Chef Dan Fox was a James Beard Best Chef: Midwest semi-finalist. Whether it's fine dining, a late night sandwich or weekend brunch, enjoy the old-world ambiance seven nights a week. Try the assorted deviled eggs!

Know Before You Go
Open on Mondays during the summer patio season only. Open for brunch Saturday and Sunday.

Gather and enjoy innovative cocktails, an N/A cocktail list, wine, beer and soulful American comfort food in this industrial chic cafe and cocktail bar. Their menu features locally-sourced vegetables, protein and dairy.

Know Before You Go
Closed on Mondays and Sundays.

Plain Spoke Cocktails tasting room is a fantastic place to gather after a day of meetings! Climb the stairs to this second floor neon laser cocktail bar overlooking King St., just one block from the Capitol Building. Imbibe tasty cocktails made fresh with quality ingredients.

Know Before You Go
Open for lunch Saturday and Sunday.

Young Blood Beer Company's tap room is an oasis of life and leisure located a block away from the State Capitol Building in the historic First Settlement District. Known for their delicious fruited sours, Young Blood Beer Company is a fun and easygoing destination for visitors who enjoy craft beer and refreshing tropical flavors. Stop by to unwind after a long day of meetings!

Know Before You Go
Open for lunch Monday through Saturday.

Special Deals & Discounts
Get 10% off your next order by signing up for their newsletter at https://fromagination.com/

Make cheese a must-do on your trip to Madison! Fromagination – on the Capitol Square since 2007 – is a European-style cut-to-order cheese shop that showcases award-winning Wisconsin artisan cheese. It also sells cheese companion items, a carefully edited selection of beer and wine, crackers and crisps, meats, chocolates and gift sets featuring Wisconsin cheese.

Fromagination also serves lunch sandwiches and cheese plates. With advance notice, customers may also participate in private group cheese classes.

Know Before You Go
Closed on Mondays.

Lake City Books is an indie bookstore selling new and used books and book-related gifts with a big kids section. Find a gift for any book lover in your life or pick up a book for your plane ride home. Located just off the Capitol Square, stop by after visiting the Madison Children's Museum, the Dane County Farmers' Market or between meetings!

Need a caffeine boost before your meeting? This Wisconsin-based café serves up tasty drinks on the Capitol Square, including coffee that is locally roasted in Viroqua, WI.

Fun fact: In 2015, Wonderstate Coffee's roastery went 100% solar powered, becoming one of the first coffee roasters in the world to generate all its power from an on-site solar array.