Known by locals as Madtown or The City of Four Lakes, Madison, WI is full of fun and unique things to do. We asked local experts to share the top things new residents should seek out to get the full experience and make Madison feel like home.
Whether you’ve just moved into an apartment in Madison, WI, are looking for a rental house in the city, or you want to buy a home in the area, this list of unique things to do in Madison, WI will help you get to know this hidden gem of the Midwest like a local in no time.
Image courtesy of Fromagination.
1. It’s not Wisconsin without cheese
Wisconsin is known for many things, but it is most famous for its cheese. Local European-style, cut-to-order cheese shop, Fromagination, offers a unique cheese class in the Capitol Square in the Mansion Hill neighborhood. Their cheesemongers tell the stories of expert cheesemakers from all over America’s Dairyland. Whether the topic is Wisconsin’s award-winning cheeses, the science behind cheese making, or pairing equally famous Wisconsin beer (or wine) with cheese, their classes are a truly unique thing to do in Madison to get to know the local culture – and taste some delicious artisan cheeses.
2. This inclusive, queer-run market is a must
Four times a year, you’ll find The Big Gay Market: a queer-run, inclusive, artist-focused premier art and craft market. Located in and around Madison, WI, their markets all center around a variety of LGBTQ+ creators and queer-affirming vendors. Their most recent December market (The Big Gay Holiday market) featured over 80 local vendors, as well as a free clothing swap, photos with Santa, drag queens and kings, and more. Keep an eye out for their upcoming markets on their website so you don’t miss the fun.
3. Explore the City of Four Lakes by bike
If you’re looking for the best cities for biking, look no further. “Madison has many bike paths that encompass the area. One of the highlights is the Monona bike loop,” shares Michael, owner of Michael’s Frozen Custard in the Monona neighborhood. “The bike path goes around the entire Monona Lake over 13 paved, adventurous miles. It makes for a great leisurely bike ride, and Michael’s Frozen Custard is a great stop along the way. You can enjoy burgers made from scratch, or a Wisconsin favorite: cheese curds. Just make sure to save room for our famous turtle sundae, too.”
4. Enjoy the finer things at D’Vino
When exploring the downtown area, make sure to take some time to treat yourself. There’s no better place to do that than D’Vino, a wine and cicchetti bar that is a hidden gem of the neighborhood. Enjoy wines specially curated from Sicily and Italy, as well as other regional favorites, small plates, classic Italian dishes and D’Vino specials. Stop by for dinner Wednesdays through Sundays, lunch on Fridays, or meet your friends for brunch on weekends.
5. Coast across Lake Mendota
Don Sanford, Madison local and author of On Fourth Lake: A Social History of Lake Mendota, recommends joining him on his Lake Mendota History Cruises on the MSCR pontoon boat or the Betty Lou Cruises in the summer. Stay tuned for the 2025 sailing schedules coming soon. You’re sure to have a fun day out on the water and learn something new along the way from this true expert on the history of the area.
6. Check out the local bookstore scene
“As writing teachers, we’re so fortunate to live in a city with multiple independently owned bookstores,” share Michelle and Susanna of The Madison Writer’s Studio. “We enjoy Lake City Books downtown, Mystery to Me near the Vilas neighborhood, and A Room of One’s Own on the near east side.”
Image courtesy of Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream.
7. Dive into the joys of Wisconsin dairy
No list of unique things to do in Madison is complete without Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream. A true Madison original since 1962, this family-owned gem creates award-winning ice cream with milk sourced from local small farm Sassy Cow Creamery. Their iconic State Street shop has been a staple since 1964. With so many unique flavors to choose from, it’s not just ice cream, it’s a taste of Madison’s local charm and rich history.
8. Make your Madison memories last with ArrowStar Photography
Experience the joy of seeing your unique story captured in timeless portraits with ArrowStar Photography in the Monona neighborhood. Their boutique portrait experiences are designed to bring joy to you and your loved ones whether you’re celebrating a milestone, or simply cherishing the everyday. These works of art will beautifully preserve your most meaningful moments by turning your memories into masterpieces.
9. Dance into a new hobby at Barrio Dance
If you’re looking for a unique thing to do in Madison while exploring a new hobby, stop by Barrio Dance. They offer drop-in classes in a variety of styles and levels. From hip hop to heels to contemporary, these classes are specifically designed for adults. “The atmosphere is so cool and tons of fun, while also still being highly educational and inviting,” shares Nicole, instructor of heels and hip hop, and the assistant director of the studio. “Madison is such an active and artistic city, so Barrio is the perfect place for a fun evening while breaking a sweat and expressing yourself through movement!”
10. One local’s list of unique things to do in Madison that you can’t miss
When people ask the owner of Silk Road Restaurant, “Why Madison?”, they have a simple answer: “Madison = lakes, parks, food, and people.” Here are their top recommendations for unique things to do in Madison:
- Pizza Brutta: “If you’re on the hunt for the best wood-fired Margherita pizza, this place on Monroe Street is unbeatable.”
- Silk Road Restaurant: “For meat lovers craving authentic flavors, our restaurant on South Park Street is a must for perfectly grilled lamb, beef, and chicken kebabs alongside hearty dumplings and flavorful pilafs.”
- Picnic Point: “This nature preserve along stunning Lake Mendota offers a refreshing escape with scenic trails and breathtaking views of the capitol over the lake.”
- Eagle Heights and Shorewood Hills: “The lakeside paths and hiking trails there are some of the best in Madison.”
- Cyclists paradise: “Madison’s extensive citywide biking routes make this the perfect city for cyclists.”
- Local Markets: “The Saturday Farmers’ Market and the Madison Night Market are vibrant events that make the city come alive, showcasing the best of local produce, crafts, and community spirit.”
There is no shortage of unique things to do in Madison, WI
While it may not be the first city that comes to mind, Madison, WI is a hidden gem in the Midwest that is full of unique things to do. While Madison has its pros and cons like any other city, its local charm and culture, diverse food scene, and gorgeous lakeside activities definitely make it a great place to live.