Madison, WI: A Quintessential Summer Escape - Immerse in Cultural Delights and Lively Vibes

Madison, WI is a beautiful college town, built on an ithsmus between Lake Mendota to the north and Lake Monona to the south. Between the University of Wisconsin, Madison, which draws a large student crowd,  the state capital building downtown where policy is almost always moving, and the funky artistic neighborhoods of Willy Street and the near east side, there is something to explore for all ages and interests. The city is surrounded by farms on almost all sides, making for a rich local culinary experience (during the growing season at least!)

Definitely snag a copy of the Ithsmus - the local alt-weekly paper - or check their listings online for the latest in what's happening in live music, food, and art events. Only have a day or two? Make sure to check out the Dane County Farmers Market, the largest producers-only market in the nation, held every Saturday on the capital square. Get there early to get the best selection of produce and tasty treats. 

While you're on the square, you might as well stroll through the capital building, checking out the view of state street (the mile-long pedestrian street that leads directly to the University) from the observation point several stories up. The Chazen museum is close by, and has a great little collection of art, and it's conveniently near the Memorial Union Terrace, an ideal spot for beers after your first long day of sightseeing.

For another full day, start on the east side. Garver Feed Mill is a wonderful place to rent a bicycle, take in a slice of pizza or a fabulous vegan donut, and even participate in a yoga class or trash clean up event, depending on the day! Wander over to Olbrich Park to toss a frisbee or eat a giant pretzel, check out A Room of One's Own for some local merch or a great read, and then go find yourself somewhere to dine. 

The restaurant scene in Madison is something fabulous - with so many options it can be hard to choose, but the all-vegan offerings of Jardin at Robinia Courtyard and the fabulous casual-fine dining vibes of The Turn Key (both centrally located on East Washington Ave by the way...) are hard to beat, and feature lots of local produce. 

& if you have a little more time and want to leave the city limits, definitely check some of the local farms in the area! Many of them hold you-pick events, where you can harvest your own apples, strawberries or pumpkins depending on the season, and chat with the wonderful people who produce your food.