More than 240 miles of bike paths and lanes make bike-based exploration a delightful way to discover Madison at your own pace. Whether you’re searching for a brief mid-day escape or seeking to fill a weekend with the sips, sounds and shopping the city has to offer, a rentable electric bike from BCycle is your means to travel Madison. Here are four quick rides to help you explore our destination.
Monroe Street
Ride to one of Madison’s favorite shopping districts. Monroe Street sprouts from Camp Randall Stadium. A blossoming street bursting with dining and shopping. Stop by Brasserie V for a rotating selection of artisanal cheeses and a tap list bursting with Belgian beers. Peruse specialty shops with surprising offerings like Orange Tree Imports, and boutique lifestyle spots like Good Day Shop. More into the sounds of nature? Lake Wingra and UW-Arboretum are quick rides away.
Distance from downtown: 3 miles
Capitol East Corridor
Looking for a spirited, thirst-satiating adventure? A bike-based pub crawl up the revitalized Capitol East corridor is for you. Vintage Brewing Company boasts a menu of award-winning beers making it the perfect starting point. Next up is a modern take on the honeyed liquor of the gods. Bos Meadery features a community-based setting to drink and learn about mead. Try the Magic Carpet Ride, a blend of spices inspired by the spice markets of Dubai. Just a few more blocks and you’ll hit State Line Distillery. Its comfortable tasting room and on-site spirits are a cozy blend. Sip on an original creation like the Night Owl – a refreshing rum-and-pineapple cocktail. Double back to next-door neighbors Old Sugar Distillery and Giant Jones Brewing. Old Sugar is a uniquely-urban distillery with spirits for every taste. Giant Jones is a certified organic, women-owned and operated brewery specializing in big beers – 7 percent alcohol by volume and up – with big flavors.
Distance from downtown: 1.5 miles
Hilldale Shopping Center
Pedal west from the downtown and you’ll find a picturesque pedestrian mall filled with upscale shopping and dining. National brands like lululemon athletica and L.L. Bean meet exclusively-local stores for a diverse shopping experience. Once you’re hungry, stop by Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co., for pub fare and beer brewed onsite. Craving the flavors of Europe? Café Hollander, offers Belgian-inspired food, an international beer list and a spacious atmosphere.
Distance from downtown: 4 miles
Atwood Neighborhood
Funky. Diverse. Vibrant. Madison’s Atwood neighborhood is a thriving hotspot of hip places to eat, play and get inspired. Sample chocolates from Gail Ambrosius Chocolatier, one of Dessert Professional Magazine’s top ten chocolatiers in North America. Devour some of Madison’s best tacos at Tex Tubb’s Taco Palace, or unearth authentic Italian at Bar Corallini. Seeking something sweet? Daisy Café and Cupcakery, has 10 flavors of cupcakes that rotate each season and include options for those with gluten-free restrictions.
Distance from downtown: 2 miles
