Stories

A rainbow at Pheasant Branch Conservancy in Middleton

Explore Outdoor Middleton at Pheasant Branch Conservancy

By Mari Olson on Jul. 02, 2020

Come explore open-water marshes, springs…

Paddlers on Lake Monona, looking at the Monona Terrace in Madison, WI

Lake Monona Cityside Paddle

By Ellen Larson on Jun. 29, 2020

Lake Monona greets anyone entering Madison by way of John Nolen Drive. In the summer months, you’ll see people dotting the water. They may be kayaking. Canoeing. Stand Up Paddle Boarding. Or maybe Paddle Boating. Want to join? It's easier than you think to get onto the water. How do I start…

6 Madison Picnic Spots Everyone Will Love

By Shelby Deering on Jun. 25, 2020

As you imagine some of your favorite summertime activities, we’re betting that a picnic is pretty high on the list. As restaurants begin to slowly re-open, you may prefer to create your own al fresco experience. Order eats from a local favorite, spread out a blanket and enjoy a beautiful summer day…

A woman smiles in front of the Lower Yahara Trail bridge

5 Madison Trails Off the Beaten Path

By Shelby Deering on Jun. 25, 2020

Time and time again, Madison tops lists of the best bike-friendly cities in the nation. And it’s no wonder, with a whopping 200 miles of paths and trails available. Whether you bike, run, rollerblade, picnic or if you simply want to walk and take in the gorgeous scenery (and transition from…

An aerial view of Picnic Point in Madison, WI

Hiking Picnic Point and Lakeshore Preserve

By Corinne Burgermeister on Jun. 25, 2020

Loved by residents, visitors, students and alumni, Picnic Point and the Lakeshore Nature Preserve has been an important destination for hundreds of years. Three hundred acres of land. A one-mile hike jutting out into Lake Mendota, the largest lake in Madison. Birds and trails and native plants, all…

The Lake Monona loop with downtown Madison in the background

Lake Monona Bike Loop

By Ellen Larson on Jun. 22, 2020

This is one of Madison’s most classic bike routes. Unbeatable views of Lake Monona — the second in our chain of lakes. The Madison skyline. Lakeside neighborhoods. All paved, with signs marking your way. 13 glorious miles. Here are some things to know. Who Would Love This? The Lake Loop is perfect…

A bowl of popcorn sitting on the table in front of a TV

7 TV Shows & Films to Transport You to Madison

By Destination Madison on May. 10, 2020

Looking for some entertainment? Here are some short films made in Madison. Bucky on Parade Documentary Watch the story of how Bucky on Parade began, how the statues were created and the lasting impact on the Madison community and beyond…

A filled in coloring sheet of the Wisconsin State Capitol

Madison Coloring & Activity Sheets for Kids (and Kids at Heart)

By Destination Madison on May. 10, 2020

Flex your creative muscles with our coloring and drawing sheets. Great for kids and kids-at-heart. Available to download or color digitally. More coming soon…

Madison Zoom Backgrounds for Your Next Meeting

By Destination Madison on May. 10, 2020

Where will you take your next video call? Maybe under the beautiful dome of the Wisconsin State Capitol? Or among the sweet-smelling flowers at Olbrich Botanical Gardens? Or how about under water with a polar bear at Henry Vilas Zoo? Whether you’re meeting with coworkers or having a happy hour with…

A butterfly rests on a large leaf at Olbrich

11 Virtual Tours to Experience Madison from Afar

By Destination Madison on May. 10, 2020

Stay cozy on your couch as you explore Madison in an entirely different way – as a virtual visitor. Embark on a visual journey through some of our favorite places, and dream up your next vacation. Wisconsin State Capitol Relish the 360-degree views inside the 100+ year old Capitol. Visit different…