Getting Here & Getting Around
Direct Flights to Madison, WI
The Dane County Regional Airport (airport code MSN) offers convenient direct flights on major airlines across the nation. Once you arrive, it takes less than 15 minutes to get downtown, our convention centers and the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus.
Airport Visitor Information Center
Once you touch down, swing by Destination Madison’s Visitor Information Center in the baggage claim area. Local experts are ready to dish out tips on getting around, what to see, and how to make the most of your stay. While you’re there, grab a map, Inspiration Guide and other handy resources to help guide your adventures.
The Visitor Information Center is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. most weekdays and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays.
Transportation In & Around Madison
Ground Transportation
Taxis, rideshares and Metro Transit buses make getting to and from the airport a breeze. If you’re in town for a big concert or event, it’s wise to book your taxi or rideshare in advance. Union Cab Cooperative of Madison and Lyft are solid options. It’s also worth checking with your hotel to see if they offer a courtesy shuttle.
John Nolen Drive, a causeway that connects the city's south side to downtown, is currently undergoing construction for infrastructure design improvements. Visit the city's project page for details and to see if this will impact your route.
Madison Metro Transit (Bus)
The city’s new bus rapid transit (BRT) makes it easier and faster than ever to get around the city. A single ride is just $2 for adults, or you can grab a one-day pass for $5. The best part? You can tap to pay on any bus using a contactless credit or debit card or digital wallets like Samsung Pay, Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Route D2 buses depart the airport at Door 6 every 30 minutes on weekdays and once per hour on weeknights and weekends, providing service through downtown Madison and the UW–Madison campus on their way to Verona, WI.
All Metro Transit buses offer accessibility features. View routes and learn more about Metro Transit here.
Car Rentals
Need to rent a car for a day trip to nearby state parks or Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin in Spring Green? Head toward the baggage claim area, where you’ll find several car rental agencies, including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz and National.
E-Bike Rentals
Exploring a lake‑city‑lake destination is even better on two wheels. Rent an electric bike at 100+ BCycle stations throughout the Madison area and see why we’re a proud Platinum‑Level Bicycle Friendly City.
Interested in a multi-day biking itinerary? Pedal over to our guest blog: Explore Coleman Concierge’s Biking Getaway Itinerary
Walkability & Accessibility in Madison, WI
Downtown Madison is wonderfully compact, packed with restaurants, attractions, hotels and easy access to the Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center and the Alliant Energy Center. The Capitol building anchors the heart of the city—use it as an unmistakable meet‑up spot for reconnecting with your travel crew. Madison’s city blocks are much shorter—about one‑third the length of those in cities like Chicago—so getting around is noticeably quicker and easier.
See just how quick, easy and accessible it is to get around:
Still need to book your hotel? Start by reserving your room within your event’s designated hotel block to secure the best rates and stay close to your group. If you need extra nights or additional rooms, explore our Madison hotel directory to filter by neighborhood, specific amenities, complimentary breakfast and more.
