Shows at The Sylvee are something special. The expansive open space means it’s hard to have a bad view, no matter where you stand, and the sound carries well throughout the whole venue. Cool back-of-house bars both upstairs and downstairs and balcony seating at the top mean there’s something for everyone. If you’ve recently considered a show at The Sylvee, this is your sign to grab those tickets while you still can. And, if you come for a show, stay and experience the vibrant neighborhood around The Sylvee.

Where to Stay

The closest accommodation to The Sylvee is the chic and trendy Hotel Indigo. Just 5 minutes from the music, Hotel Indigo is the perfect spot to explore the local neighborhood and stay near the action (while still being less than 1 mile away from the Capitol). Another great option is the AC Hotel Madison Downtown, just a 12 minute walk from the music. 

If you’re looking to stay on the Capitol Square, Park Hotel is still within walking distance of The Sylvee (about 15 minutes) or an easy drive. And for lake views like no other, The Edgewater, which houses delicious dining options, a bar and more, is a cozy winter haven. There’s no shortage of happening hotels in Madison. Check them out here.

What to Eat

For a pre-show beer and basket of cheese curds, Vintage Brewing Company Capitol East has you covered. Located literally right next to The Sylvee, Vintage is a popular hangout for concert goers, so you’re sure to meet others just as excited about the upcoming show as you are. (Bonus: Sign up for Madison On Tap and receive $1 off drafts at Vintage and other deals and discounts at breweries, cideries and distilleries around the Madison area.)

Jardin, located in Robinia Courtyard (just a 3 minute walk from The Sylvee), is a can’t-miss spot for plant forward diets. This 100% plant-based menu is a fresh take on fine dining. Their snack menu features options like seasonal hummus with focaccia (a personal favorite) and chickpea paneer. The lobster casarecce main is another favorite, with the lion’s mane and lobster mushrooms pairing perfectly with the sage and white wine cream sauce. The small but impressive dessert menu features a classic cast iron cookie. The bar menu? Also all vegan. From the service and presentation to the taste and textures, Jardin is an elevated plant-based experience perfect for a weekend getaway.

If you’ve got pizza on your mind, you’re just a 4 minute walk from some of the best. Salvatore’s Tomato Pies on North Livingston Street serves up all the classics and more. Fun flavors like Cavolo! (featuring red cabbage, bacon, thyme and apple) and Woodsman, a mushroom and leek-based pie stand alongside vegan sausage pizza. Delicious salad and pasta options also abound.

Fuel up the morning after the show at Madison Sourdough on Williamson Street. Quiches, breakfast sandwiches, pastries and more make this the perfect breakfast spot after a late night (or any night).

What to Do

Cocktails before the show mean hitting up Old Sugar Distillery, Imaginary Factory or State Line Distillery, all within a 20-minute walk to the venue (find deals and discounts for these 3 spots here). You can’t go wrong with the unique, local flavors and immaculate vibes at these spots.  

The Arts + Literature Laboratory, right next door to The Sylvee, offers another way to experience art in Madison. This community-based contemporary arts center features visual art exhibits, a small press library and more. Check their calendar for readings, screenings and performance art while you’re in town.

When you’re at The Sylvee, you’re just minutes from Lake Monona. No matter the weather, the lake vibes are perfect. In warmer weather, rent a BCycle e-bike and ride the Lake Monona Loop. In winter, enjoy the frozen lakes (and the festivals that come along with them). In Madison, lake life never stops.

Go ahead, book that show at The Sylvee you’ve been eyeing. The venue is hard to beat. And outside of the concert, a whole world of delicious dining, unique local beverages, cool art hangs and more await.

@destinationmadison That upcoming show list is 🔥 🔥 🔥 #madisonwi #madisonwisconsin #wisconsin #travel #music #concert #livemusic #theheadandtheheart @The Sylvee ♬ original sound - Hayley Andersen