Badger football. LOVB Madison matches. The thrill of IRONMAN. The pursuit of WIAA glory. Whatever sportscursion brings you to Madison, you’ll find a city that embraces visitors and elevates game day into a full-blown adventure!
Sports tourism is on the rise, with more fans and athletes travelling for the experience of competition and camaraderie. In Madison, sports aren’t just events. They’re experiences that are woven into our city’s active culture.
Come for the sportscursion. Stay for the added experiences. Here’s your playbook for the top things to do in Madison as a sports fan:
Tour Iconic Sports Landmarks
Madison’s sports legacy runs deep. Named the #1 college football town by Bleacher Report, Sports Illustrated, USA Today, and NCAA.com on repeat, this city knows how to celebrate the game and uphold traditions (case in point: Jump Around). Reserve time during your trip to explore Madison’s legendary venues and discover the rich history of our sports culture.
Camp Randall Tours
In addition to being the oldest venue in the Big Ten, Camp Randall Stadium is the grounds of a former Civil War training camp for the Union Army! Take a fascinating, behind-the-scenes look at one of the most historic stadiums in college football. Tours are available in two formats:
Guided Tours
June–July (for 1–9 people)
This one-hour guided tour includes an overview of the stadium’s history, plus scenic views and tours of the Buckingham Club, a Camp Randall suite, Victory Hall, the Loge Boxes, the 1917 Club and Bucky’s Balcony. Tickets may be purchased in advance online for $10.
Group Tours
May–October, except Fridays during the football season (for 10–100 people)
Sign up for a one-hour group tour to view the Bud Selig Hall of Champions, tour a luxury suite, experience panoramic views of the stadium and even step onto the turf, weather permitting.
For more details or to schedule a tour, visit the Wisconsin Athletics website.
Kohl Center / LaBahn Arena Tours
May–late October (for 10–100 people)
One-hour group tours allow visitors to experience the home of Wisconsin Basketball and Hockey firsthand. Check out the incredible views from seats and suites, learn historical tidbits and get behind-the-scenes access to these premier facilities. For tour dates and details, visit the Wisconsin Athletics website.
University of Wisconsin–Madison Campus Tours
If you’re in Madison for a sports tournament and considering attending UW–Madison, schedule a campus tour! Campus walking tours are also available for school and adult groups that want to learn more about the university’s traditions, academic excellence and campus landmarks. View a full list of tours here.
Trek Bicycles in Waterloo, WI
Madison’s reputation as a platinum-level Bicycle Friendly City makes it a magnet for both recreational riders and elite cyclists. That reputation was on full display in summer 2025, when the city hosted the USA Cycling Collegiate Road National Championships, presented by Trek.
Want to see where world-class bikes have been made since 1976? Trek offers public tours of its production factory every Wednesday at 10 a.m.—a must for any cycling enthusiast. More information can be found on the Trek website. To schedule a tour for a large group, contact ridersupport@trekbikes.com.
Experience Our Local Sports Scene
Wisconsin Badgers. LOVB Madison. Madison Night Mares. Forward Madison FC. Our dynamic roster just keeps growing. Madison’s local sports scene is thriving, and the buzz of energy and excitement can be found year-round.
Learn more about our amateur, collegiate and professional sports teams and catch a game while you’re in the area.
Shop for Sports Merch
No sportscursion is complete without some gear to show off your team spirit. Leave room in your suitcase and head to these shops before the big game:
Bucky’s Locker Room
Bucky’s Locker Room is the official store of the Wisconsin Badgers, conveniently located on campus at Camp Randall Stadium and the Kohl Center. And here’s a pro tip: The Camp Randall location offers some of the best field-level views from their outdoor patio. The Madison Area Sports Commission team often adds this as a stop on familiarization tours hosted for visitors from across the country!
The University Book Store
Established in 1894, The University Book Store on State St. has been a go-to place for UW–Madison students and Badger fans shopping for books, collegiate clothing and fan gear. Stock up on all things red and white (or yellow and green—take your pick!)
Dane County Regional Airport
It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s Forward Madison FC merch flying high at Dane County Regional Airport! Flock to the Wisconsin Gift Market across from Gate 7 for unique goods from local businesses. Whether you're heading out or coming home, show off your ‘mingo pride with a Forward Madison plushie—it’s the perfect souvenir that doubles as a travel pillow.
Outdoor UW
Right on the shores of Lake Mendota, tucked away in the lower level of Memorial Terrace is Outdoor UW. Outdoor UW offers year-round rental equipment including paddle crafts in the summer, snowshoes in the winter and gear for camping and hiking in between. Active travelers can also book private group experiences, making outdoor fun a four-season affair.
Stay at a hotel near the action
Graduate by Hilton Madison
Graduate Madison is the ultimate boutique hotel for sports fans. This 72-room hotel blends Badger traditions and campus legends with creative decor. Visit their camp-inspired rooftop bar, Camp Trippalindee, grab a coffee at Poindexter and stay active with the Peloton bike in their gym. Every detail is designed to celebrate Madison’s sports culture—making your stay a memorable part of your sportscursion!
Wisconsin Union Hotel
The Wisconsin Union Hotel offers 60 boutique-style guest rooms, including extended-stay suites with a kitchenette and living area. This hotel puts you right in the heart of the action on Badger game days. Attend Badger Bash—Madison’s beloved tailgate party—right outside your door at Union South before heading to Camp Randall. Remember to book early for the busy football season!
More Options Near UW Athletic Facilities
The Hilton Garden Inn Madison Downtown and DoubleTree by Hilton Madison Downtown are a 5-minute walk to the Kohl Center, making them a top choice for fans attending games or events. (Small but mighty sweet touch: DoubleTree offers free cookies during your stay!) Hampton Inn & Suites Madison Downtown is another great option within easy walking distance of UW athletic facilities.
View our full list of hotel options here.
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