Wisconsin Getaway: 24 Hours to explore Madison, WI

Madison, WI is the perfect place for a mini getaway or a staycation for locals. I recently spent 24 hours exploring my city like a tourist – from visiting the farmers’ markets to cruising on an electric bike to eating delicious food and paddling on a lake, there is so much to do! You might need more than a day for your Wisconsin Getaway! Here is the perfect way to spend 24 hours exploring downtown Madison, WI in the summer.

Day 1 CHECK IN:

Start off your afternoon by checking into your hotel and enjoying the welcome drink – and views. I recommend the Moxy Madison – this new hotel just east of the Capitol features a Victorian suite with a spectacular view of the Capitol and Breese Stevens field and a mini fridge for storage. Grab your welcome drink and some snacks at the bar before heading out for the evening!

Day 1 HAPPY HOUR:

Grab a B-cycle and head downtown to enjoy happy hour drinks and bites. I have been loving Rare Steakhouse’s happy hour menu from 4-6 (half off burgers!) and Heritage Tavern’s Happy Hour menu is another favorite. Don’t miss the deviled eggs and ham sandwich as well as seasonal craft cocktail specials. Visit Fromagination around the square to pick up some cheese to take home.

Day 1 EVENING:

Nothing says Madison summer like watching the sunset from the iconic Memorial Union Terrace. Grab a beer and some friends and listen to music or people watch. There are also plenty of free festivals around Madison. Try Dane Dances on Fridays or the night market downtown.

Day 2 MORNING:

Wednesday and Saturday mornings be sure to visit one of the Dane County Farmers’ Markets downtown (Saturday around the State Capitol and Wednesdays along Martin Luther King Jr Drive. Sample breads, pastries and pick up veggies and flowers to make a delicious dinner at home. This is my favorite time of year to enjoy the abundance! 

Day 2 DAYTIME:

Take a food tour with Madison Eats Food Tours! We offer downtown walking tours during the week from 11 am – 2 pm and Sundays or biking food tours on ebikes and Atwood neighborhood tours on the Saturdays at 1- 4 pm. Come on a Madison adventure tour with us and eat your way around the city!

Day 2 LATE AFTERNOON:

Paddle on a lake (BYO or rent from one of our many rental facilities) and enjoy our beautiful city from the water. Bring a picnic lunch and relax at a city park before heading home. Some places that rent include Wingra Boats, Brittingham Boats and Rutabaga Sports.

What is on your Madison, WI summer must-do list?

Pro tip: Pack a cooler in your car so you can easily transport your cheese and produce home!

The tour guides at Madison Eats are always ready to provide local recs for food and fun this summer — no matter your tastes. Book a food tour and experience the very best of Madison while enjoying some precious sunshine!