From the World Dairy Expo to LOVB Madison to the World’s Largest Brat Fest, the Alliant Energy Center is Madison’s headquarters for an array of large-scale events. Sitting on 164 acres, the campus lies around 10 minutes from the Capitol Square and looks out over Willow Island’s 29 acres of green space.
Whether you’re attending an event or planning one, you’ll be glad to know that there are plenty of things to do near the convention center and neighboring hotels. The location is also ideal because of its close proximity to downtown activities by bike, car or an idyllic lakeside walk. It’s also a less than 15-minute ride from the Dane County Regional Airport.
Boasting nearly 630,000 total square feet of functional space, 29 acres of green space and a whopping 5,800 parking spaces, the Alliant Energy Center can handle exhibitions of all sizes, and even has facilities for cows, horses and other animals. While the events and tradeshows here will no doubt keep you busy, the whole experience is sure to be enhanced by all the fun things to do near Alliant Energy Center.
Rent an Electric BCycle and Explore the Lake Monona Loop
Want to explore the area just like a local? Then look no further than to the electric Madison BCycle stations situated near the Alliant Energy Center. Madison is known for being one of the most bikeable cities in the country, and the convention center happens to overlook one of the top bike paths: the 13-mile Lake Monona Bike Loop, which encircles the lake and is marked by points of interest like the Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center, Olbrich Botanical Gardens and San Damiano Park.
You can pick up an electric Madison BCycle from any of the 100+ BCycle stations around town, and you can return it to the same station or any other station when you’re finished. There are stations located just down the way on either side of John Nolen Drive (Olin Park @ E. Lakeside St. and Sayle St. and Van Deusen St.), placed right along the bike path. Opt for the “Single Ride” or “Guest Pass.”
Although the bike loop lends itself to exploring on two wheels, the path is also perfect for leisurely walks and scenic runs.
Dine at Liberty Station
Liberty Station, a tavern and smokehouse that serves up tasty American fare, lies only two minutes from the Alliant Energy Center. Open for lunch and dinner, you’ll savor comfort-food favorites, like brisket grilled cheese, St. Louis ribs and smoked wings. You can also enjoy a craft draft beer or a classic cocktail, such as a Moscow Mule or “The Hemingway,” punctuated by pineapple rum, simple syrup and fresh lime juice.
Sip a Pint at Delta Beer Lab
Just four minutes from the Alliant Energy Center is local go-to Delta Beer Lab. They’re known for their house-made craft brews that all carry chemistry-inspired names, like the Half-Life Hazy IPA and Atomic Amber Ale. You can relish these beers in the comfort of Delta Beer Lab’s Taproom, featuring sleek visuals inside and an outdoor patio made for summer days. The brewery is LGBTQ+ owned and operated and frequently partners with local nonprofits to raise funds and awareness for community causes.
Play in Olin Park and Turville Point Conservation Park
There are a couple beautiful parks that flank the Lake Monona Bike Loop and are easy to get to from the Alliant Energy Center, including Olin Park and Turville Point Conservation Park. Olin Park has the best seat in the house when it comes to expansive views of the lake and the Madison skyline, and also features a soccer field, playground equipment and even a beach. The adjoining Turville Point Conservation Park offers equally lovely views along with a seven-acre prairie dotted with towering trees and spring wildflowers. During the holiday season, these two parks present the yearly Holiday Fantasy in Lights, with over 50 drive-through light displays.
Wrapping in all these experiences and more, be sure to sign up for one of our free Madison Experience Passes. Use the app on your phone and “choose your own adventure” with itineraries that range from iconic eats to Frank Lloyd Wright to “Madison by Bike” and more.
For information on the John Nolen Drive construction project, check for updates as you make travel plans. The construction will result in a transformation that’s coming to the lakefront path that will include a boardwalk, features to support local wildlife, and a “Lake Lounge” for special events.
Hotels Near Alliant Energy Center
- Spark by Hilton Madison Central (.2 miles): newly-renovated and on-site at the Alliant Energy Center—in fact, it’s connected to the Exhibition Hall by a climate-controlled walkway.
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Madison Central (.4 miles): pet-friendly, with an indoor pool and outdoor terrace.
- Madison Marriott South (.5 miles): beverages abound at The Hub, grab a sandwich on the run at The Market and enjoy one of the well-appointed 239 spacious rooms.
- Fairfield Inn & Suites Madison South (.5 miles): all-new with a pool and gym.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Madison Central (.6 miles): ranked the #1 hotel in Madison based on guest satisfaction on TripAdvisor, featuring an indoor saltwater pool and complimentary breakfast.
Discover more information about these area hotels.
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