The ultimate Madison-area summer weekend guide!

Looking for the perfect itinerary for your family’s weekend visit to Madison, WI? It definitely needs to involve the Dane Country Farmers’ Market, brunch, a Madison Eats Food Tour and exploring small towns and local restaurants.  Here is your ultimate guide to spending a weekend in and around Madison, WI-the perfect summer weekend plan for the family visit.

FRIDAY

Fish fry and sauna in Paoli!

Start the weekend in Paoli, WI. This beautiful town just a few miles south of Verona, WI boasts a historic dairy factory converted to a boutique hotel–Seven Acre Dairy. Start the afternoon with a drop in sauna at Tuli Sauna and Plunge. Tuli is a woman owned business that sits overlooking the river. It is my favorite place to sauna! A dip in the cool (or cold depending on the time of year) river is a must.

Bring a change of clothes and enjoy the Friday fish fry after – all you can eat for $20! Tables are set up outside, and this family friendly event is the perfect way to enjoy your Friday evening. The fish is sustainably caught, battered and fried and served with Mac n cheese, fries, slaw and salad.

SATURDAY

Farmers’ Market and Food Tour

No Saturday morning is complete without a stop at the Dane Country Farmers’ Market, around the Capitol. This is the largest producer-only market in the country! Show up early if you want to shop or enjoy the crowds of people and a slower pace later in the morning. Producer only means that only the producer (farmer) can sell the product to you – no middle people! It’s pretty impressive.

From there head to one of Madison Eats Food Tours’ Saturday tours. We offer a Bike n’ Bites tour and the Atwood Tour on Saturdays. Bike n Bites is a fun way to explore the city’s east side by electric assist bike (courtesy of BCycle). The Atwood tour explores our beloved Atwood neighborhood by foot. Either way you will enjoy loads of delicious food and drink samples!

There’s still time to enjoy sunset at UW Memorial Union after the full and filling day.

SUNDAY

Road Trip Time!

Explore outside of Madison! Start your Sunday with lunch at Brix Cider in Mt. Horeb. This small cidery offers a delicious farm-sourced menu and daily specials. Of course you can grab a house brewed cider or a flight of ciders!

From there continue to Spring Green for a self guided tour of Taliesen. This impressive home of Frank Lloyd Wright is nestled in the scenic driftless area. You must book the tour in advance, and will be prompted to download an app to listen as you explore at your own pace. Bring your own headphones if desired.

All in all this is a great way to spend a summer weekend in Madison, WI with family!

Join us on a downtown tour and explore Madison’s global flavors!

This is just the tip of the Madison Eats iceberg – want to read and experience more of our favorite local food and drinks? Check out our socials for the latest updates and don’t forget to join us for a Food Tour!