Welcome Back to Madison

Travel looks different these days. There are so many things to consider and questions to ask before visiting another city. We’re so excited to welcome you to Madison, and we hope the information below will make you feel confident and ready to visit.

As we all know, COVID-19 is an ever-evolving situation. While we update this page regularly, we cannot guarantee information hasn’t changed since the last edit.

Page last updated: September 9, 2021

Frequently Asked Questions

A family enjoys food from a food cart while sitting on a curb in downtown Madison
Photo by SV Photography

Is Madison open for visitors?

Yes! We are open and excited to welcome visitors to Madison.

Are face coverings required in Madison?

Yes. Starting Thursday, August 19, 2021, at 12:01 a.m., Public Health Madison & Dane County’s Face Covering Emergency Order went into effect requiring everyone age 2 and older to wear a face covering or mask when in any enclosed building where other people, except for members of the person’s own household or living unit, could be present. This requirement applies to all of Dane County. There are some exemptions, including some for performers. The order will be in effect until October 8, 2021.

Are there any gathering limits in Madison?

As of June 2, 2021, there are no gathering limits in Dane County. However, as of August 19, 2021, masks are required in all indoor spaces.

What is the vaccination rate in Dane County?

Leading the state of Wisconsin, 68.2 percent of Dane County residents are fully vaccinated, making Dane County one of the most vaccinated large counties in the country. See the data.

What are COVID-19 case numbers like in Dane County?

Check out this dashboard to see the data.

Where can I get tested for COVID-19 in Madison?

Visit Public Health Madison & Dane County for the most up-to-date information on testing options.

Many local pharmacies across Dane County, community test sites and the Public Health clinic at 2230 S. Park St. in Madison, all provide testing.

Rapid drive-thru testing is available through Walgreens.

UW-Madison also has testing on campus for students and staff.

Wisconsin residents can also order free, at-home saliva collection kits through The Department of Health Services also provides. Order your kit.

Where can I find additional public health information?

Additional useful COVID-19 information can be found at the websites below:

Have more questions?

We’re happy to do our best to answer any other questions you may have. Reach out to us at info@visitmadison.com or send us a message on Facebook or Instagram.

Restaurants

Patrons fill a downtown Madison streatery on a spring evening
Photo by SV Photography

Madison restaurants are open, with masks required indoors starting August 19, 2021. Many places have added patios or streatery spots to accommodate outdoor dining. We recommend making dining reservations, and ask that you show our hardworking hospitality staff patience and kindness, as many businesses are understaffed or training new team members.

Rather take it to go? Many restaurants are continuing to offer online ordering, to-go options and curbside pickup.

Visit our restaurants page to discover what individual restaurants are offering and what safety precautions they're taking.

FIND A RESTAURANT

Hotels

Guests wearing masks check in at a hotel

Madison hotels are open and welcoming guests, and many have implemented CDC-recommended cleaning guidelines.

Visit our hotels page to find accommodations to meet your needs.

Find a Place to Stay

Shopping & Attractions

A woman shopping at a store during the COVID-19 pandemic
Photo by Focal Flame Photography

Madison shops, boutiques and attractions are open and ready to welcome you. Before heading out, check the business’s website or social media channels for its hours and safety guidelines before visiting.

Discover More Attractions

Outdoor Activities

A group of friends enjoy sandwiches while kayaking in front of Monona Terrace on Lake Monona
Photo by Focal Flame Photography

There is so much to do outdoors in Madison. Take a look at our Explore Outdoor Madison page brimming with physically distant outdoor activities in our green spaces and on our lakes and trails — including picnic spots and special offerings. You’ll also want to read through our 12 Iconic Adventures for specific ideas of how to spend your day outdoors in Madison.

Explore Outdoor Madison

Looking for relief fund information and other small business resources? Click here.