Game Day

Stepping into Madison in late fall is an unforgettable experience. The city erupts in celebration as football fanatics crash over the isthmus like a festive wave of red and white energy.

Camp Randall Stadium bursts with 80,000 Badgers of all ages, and one of football’s best traditions rocks so hard it registers on the Richter Scale.

It's no wonder Sports Illustrated named Madison the best college football town in America. So did Bleacher Report. And the NCAA. And USA Today (twice).

So come to Madison for the game. And the pregame. And the postgame. And all weekend long.

PREGAME

Dane County Farmers’ Market

Start your morning on the Capitol Square, fueling up with local products at one of America’s best farmers’ markets. The Dane County Farmers’ Market is a Saturday morning staple that draws locals and visitors – and even James Beard Award-winning chefs — to shop from more than 270 vendors.

Badger Bash

Join the marching band and spirit squad at Union South for one of Madison’s favorite game day celebrations. Just steps from the famed Camp Randall Memorial Arch — Badger Bash boasts high-energy fun, live music, games, and fresh, hot food. And of course, ice-cold beer.

Game Time

Watching the game at the stadium is exciting. But Madison has many spirited spots to catch the game outside Camp Randall’s walls too. Check out Regent Street or one of campus’ classic bars – they’re local favorites for game day.

POST-GAME

Fifth Quarter

Stick around post-game for the Fifth Quarter, a high-energy performance by the marching band, enjoyed by more than 35,000 fans. Sing and dance along to school traditions and favorites like “Varsity,” “Hey Baby,” and “You’ve Said it All.”

Nearby Nibbles

Keep the fun going with delicious dining near the stadium. Scarf down a jumbo-sized slice of pizza from Ian’s Pizza By the Slice. Their unique flavors earned it the title of Wisconsin’s Best Pizza by Food Network. In the mood for a juicy burger? Dotty Dumpling’s Dowry serves up one of Madison’s best — accompanied by local beers, of course. Need a little modern flair? Check out The Wise for an urban-chic, Wisconsin-inspired option inside HotelRED — across the street from the stadium.

ALL WEEKEND LONG

Essential Madison Experiences

After an unforgettable game day, why not make more memories with a series of uniquely-local experiences? Dive deep into the world of Bourbon, beer and must-try mustards with the Essential Madison Experiences — a series of only-in-Madison attractions and events. Book to get hands-on experience with classic cocktails, sassy cows, kayaks, gardens, and more.

Craft Beverage Scene

Craving a nightcap? Carve out some time to explore our neighborhoods and see what’s on tap. Check out east-side staples like Old Sugar Distillery, isthmus icons like Great Dane Pub & Brewing Company, and one of Wisconsin’s premier wineries.   

Browse our accommodations to find the perfect hotel for your stay.