A list of things to do near Madison, WI!
Have you ever decided to travel to a city from the state that you’re from, and realize that you’re not really sure what to do? Maybe you had this idea that once you got there, you would find things to do, or you would be content with just a night out on the town with no real plans for the day.
This has happened to me a few times over the past year, especially when taking a few home state based trips to save money, but still exploring. One of my most recent trips was to the Madison area in Wisconsin, and although I have lived here for most of my life, I was struggling to come up with things to do. Knowing that there are others out there either in Wisconsin looking for some inspiration, or there might be some out of state people looking for some ideas when visit the area, here is a list of some of the places you should visit while in the Madison, Wisconsin area!
Blue Mounds State Park is right outside of Madison and offers some amazing hiking trails! This park is also super pet friendly, and offers a range of easy to difficult hiking, making is a great place to visit if you're looking for a variety. This park also offers a swimming pool and splash pad that is open to the public, making this a great stop if you are looking to get outside of the busy city. For more information on this great location, you can either read my “Top Wisconsin State Parks” blog or visit the site above.
Cave of the Mounds is one of the places that you have to see it, to believe it because pictures don’t do it justice! Being on the must see list of the National Natural Landmark association, walking through the cave is truly walking back in time. Fossils litter the walks around you and provide amazing views of what life was like during the Ice Age. If you are near the Madison area, I highly suggest stopping by Cave of the Mounds for a tour!
Henry Vilas Zoo is another great day activity, and is located in Madison, making it an easy stop if you are in the area. Did I also mention that it’s free to visit? That’s right! They have over 650 animals to see and are home to 20 endangered and vulnerable species, meaning that your donations would be going to a great cause. If you’re looking for something to do on a nice day, I highly suggest this stop.
Havens Petting Farm is one of my favorite petting farms to visit in Wisconsin! This petting farm is 100% family operated and is home to the famous 1,000 pound pig! From cows, to bunnies, this is a great stop for people of all ages. Open Wednesday-Sunday, it also serves as a great weekend stop while in the Madison area.
Mount Horeb is known for many things, but their most popular is the trolls that they have placed all throughout their town. On every corner and in front of almost every shop, you’ll see a traditional Norwegian troll! This town is full of cute shops, restaurants, cafes, making it a great place to stop for a meal and look around. This beautiful village is a place that you will definitely want to see if you are in the Madison area.
Governor Dodge State Park is a little further away then some of these suggested places, but is totally worth the drive. Known for amazing views and fishing, if you are a lover of the outdoors you won’t want to skip this stop. For more information on this destination, you can either read my blog “Top Wisconsin State Parks” or visit the site above.
If you are a lover of Spotted Cow, then you will 100% want to stop at New Glarus Brewing! This brewery is known for their kind staff, amazing beer and for only being in Wisconsin. If you haven’t stopped here already, I suggest it if you're in the Madison area.
If you’re a Wisconsin native, then you have heard of Devil’s Lake State Park. Being one of the most popular and most visited destinations in Wisconsin, Devil’s Lake is a great place to get some hiking, swimming, fishing and rock climbing in! Some of the best views in Wisconsin can be found here, making it a must see if you are in the Madison area. For more information on this must see destination, you can read my “Top Wisconsin State Parks” blog or visit the link above.
Like Devil’s Lake, Yellowstone Lake State Park is known for it’s amazing views and is full of things to do. Yellowstone Lake is best known for its great fishing and boating, or snowmobiling and cross country skiing in the winter. If you are near the Madison area, you should definitely consider stopping by this beautiful state park.
Lastly, if you are in the Madison area/in Madison, you need to see the capitol building. Being one of the most visited areas in Madison, there are often farmers markets, food truck gatherings and community events in and outside of it. If you are in the area, you should stop by and take a look at one of the most beautiful buildings in Wisconsin.