WELCOME TO MADISON
We are so excited to be the host of the Ultimate Derby's 2025 Badger State Nationals. Demolition derby has a rich history in Wisconsin that has quickly become a staple at county fairs and events across the state. As Wisconsin's capitol city, we are thrilled to welcome derby fans from across the country to the one-of-a-kind destination experience Madison has to offer!
Madison's Fun Facts
- Madison is one of only two major U.S. cities built on an isthmus.
- The Capitol was built with 43 types of stone from six countries and eight states. Construction was completed in 1917.
- A city ordinance prevents any new building from being taller than the Capitol dome.
- Madison was incorporated as a city in 1856 and is named after James Madison, the fourth U.S. President.
- Madison is the 81st largest city in the U.S.
- Madison has 5 glittering lakes.
- Nirvana recorded its breakthrough album Nevermind in Madison.
- Scenes for the 2009 film Public Enemies, starring Johnny Depp, were filmed at the Capitol and surrounding areas.
- Elvis Presley famously broke up a street fight in Madison in 1977.
- Soul legend Otis Redding sadly passed away in a plane crash in Lake Monona.
- Since 1951, UW has made its own ice cream on campus– a favorite treat for students and alumni to enjoy at the Memorial Union Terrace.
- UW-Madison was the first college in the country to offer a dairy major.
- The Dane County Farmers' Market (located on the Capitol Square) is the largest producer-only market in the U.S.
- Madison is home to the world’s largest Brat Fest, held annually on Memorial Day weekend.
- Madison is home to several James Beard award winners.
- Find more fun facts here >>
