City centre Madison thrives at the crossroads of student energy and cultural richness. State Street buzzes with quirky shops and cafes stretching from campus to the majestic capitol dome. The area boasts museums, theatres, and the Overture Centre where local art comes alive. The area shines with lakeside charm and academic spirit. Students and professionals mingle at outdoor cafes and the Saturday farmers market. Capitol Square offers peaceful green space while nearby Lake Mendota provides scenic waterfront views for all visitors.
While there might not be top attractions in Monona Bay, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Camp Randall Stadium and Alliant Energy Center.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Madison
Camp Randall Stadium
9.0/10 (1,067 reviews)
Camp Randall Stadium, the historic home of Wisconsin Badgers football since 1895, is the Big Ten's oldest stadium. Experience the electrifying "Jump Around" tradition as fans leap between the third and fourth quarters.
Photo by Liz Roy
Open Photo by Liz Roy
Capitol Square
9.4/10 (1,420 reviews)
Capitol Square surrounds Wisconsin's majestic statehouse while hosting America's largest producer-only farmers' market. Savour local flavours at nearby restaurants or enjoy summer concerts with the dome as backdrop.
Photo by Cindy Grey
Open Photo by Cindy Grey
East Towne Mall
8.2/10 (1,077 reviews)
East Towne Mall offers diverse shopping, dining, and entertainment anchored by Barnes & Noble and Flix Brewhouse. Combine your film experience with craft beer at the in-house microbrewery for a unique shopping break.
Alliant Energy Center
8.6/10 (944 reviews)
This versatile 164-acre complex hosts over 500 annual events from concerts to agricultural exhibitions. Enjoy modern amenities and dedicated staff while attending events like the World's Largest Brat Fest.
Kohl Center
8.8/10 (838 reviews)
Experience the electric atmosphere of the Kohl Centre, home of the Wisconsin Badgers basketball and hockey teams. The modern arena hosts thrilling collegiate games and major concerts with excellent sightlines throughout.
Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center
9.0/10 (387 reviews)
Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural masterpiece sits elegantly on Lake Monona's shore. Explore the rooftop gardens for panoramic views of Madison's skyline while enjoying seasonal café dining.
Ho-Chunk Gaming Madison
7.6/10 (443 reviews)
This 100% smoke-free casino offers over 1,300 slot machines with an impressive 95% payout rate. Join the Rewards Club for exclusive promotions in the Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired prairie-style interior.
Overture Center for the Arts
8.8/10 (214 reviews)
Madison's premier cultural hub hosts over 200 performances annually in stunning modern theatres. Arrive early to explore art galleries and enjoy pre-show talks that deepen your appreciation of the performance.
What to do in Madison
Madison Must-See and Must-Eat Locations with Self-Guided Audio Tour
"Great location with large room, nice view, and nice lobby. Great variety at breakfast. Room did seem humid and spotted some mold under AC. Rest of hotel room and common areas including pool were impeccably clean. We even spotted a housekeeper in her hands and knees cleaning the elevator door track."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Madison escape. However, a range of factors like your choice of hotel, the season and length of stay will determine how much your holiday to Madison costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Madison?
December, January and February are great times to look for cheap Madison holiday packages. Opting to travel in less busy months means you'll typically find reduced prices on flights and accommodation.
How many days is enough for Madison?
We recommend booking a Madison holiday for at least 2 days. This gives you time to check off top attractions such as Madison Museum of Contemporary Art and Spring Harbour Beach, and check out neighbourhoods like Regent and Marquette. You could even slot in a day trip beyond Madison.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Madison?
Madison has all the ingredients you need for an awesome trip — dining, culture and nightlife are just the start. Whether you'd like to check out sights such as Camp Randall Stadium and Kohl Centre, or take the path less traveled, you'll find plenty to experience on your Madison holiday.
How to find the best Madison package deals?
Use Expedia's filters to find some of the best Madison package deals. When you begin your search, simply set your maximum budget and then sort the results by "Price: low to high." If you're looking to save, plan your trip for midweek, or browse for Madison package deals in the low season. Switch up your travel dates and you may score even bigger discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's typically best to book your holiday package well in advance.
Is it cheaper to book a Madison holiday as a package?
Expedia holiday packages are designed to help you keep more cash in your pocket. Bundle your car rental, flight and hotel into one great-value price and enjoy significant savings. You'll typically land a better deal than booking each component separately. And you'll still have the flexibility to create a tailored Madison holiday by choosing your preferred type of stay, airline and car class.
When to book a holiday package to Madison?
If you've got your Madison holiday dates confirmed, book as early as you can to snap up some unbeatable deals. With Expedia, you can generally reserve some flights up to one year in advance. Prefer spontaneous trips? Our last-minute deals are perfect for setting off on a whim.
How to plan a trip to Madison?
Choose when to get away: Check your schedule and pack your bags. Your favourite season and the available activities will also help you decide when to escape to Madison.
Calculate your budget: Ensure you have enough money to cover everything from meals and transportation to airfares and activities. Your hotel will likely be the largest expense during your trip to Madison.
Decide how long to go for: Now that you know more about Madison, you can figure out the perfect length of your holiday. Pull together a rough plan and give yourself enough time to get through everything on your must-do list.
Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in place, you can combine your car rental, flights, hotels and more into a tailored Madison holiday package.
Madison offers an array of activities perfect for families and city enthusiasts alike. Visitors can enjoy educational attractions, vibrant arena entertainment, and delightful shopping experiences. Key highlights include engaging sightseeing tours and exploring local shopping centres, all set against the backdrop of this charming city. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or urban exploration, Madison promises a memorable vacation for all.
Shopping
Experience shopping in Madison at East Towne Mall, a vibrant centre offering various shops and entertainment. For unique finds, visit the Dane County Farmers Market, showcasing local produce and crafts. Don’t miss Mousehouse Cheesehaus for delightful cheese gifts, capturing the essence of Wisconsin.
Recreation
At Warner Park, immerse yourself in serene landscapes perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Yahara Hills Golf Course invites you to enjoy the outdoors while playing a leisurely round of golf. For a tranquil escape, Token Creek Park offers peaceful trails ideal for meditation and reflection amidst nature.
Adventure
Experience the invigorating Lake Monona Shoreline Run, where you can savour the fresh air and scenic views. At Angell Park Speedway, immerse yourself in thrilling motor racing events. For family fun, visit Ten Pin Alley, an arcade adventure zone perfect for bonding and excitement.
Nightlife
For a vibrant nightlife experience in Madison, visit the Memorial Union Terrace, a charming drinking pub with a romantic atmosphere and entertaining vibes. Enjoy the stunning lakeside views while sipping on refreshing beverages, making it a perfect spot for socialising and unwinding after a day of exploration.
Find the best attractions in Madison
Madison, Wisconsin, is an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, offering a blend of cultural experiences and urban greenery. Visitors can explore modern colleges and universities, enjoy entertainment at local arenas, and unwind in beautiful urban parks. With a variety of attractions catering to diverse interests, Madison promises a memorable holiday for all who venture into this charming city and its surroundings.
University of Wisconsin-Madison: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this renowned institution. Explore its stunning campus, featuring beautiful architecture and lush green spaces, while enjoying the lively city vibes that surround it. The university hosts various cultural events and activities throughout the year, adding to its dynamic character.
Alliant Energy Center: Experience the heartbeat of Madison's entertainment scene at this versatile arena. Whether attending family-friendly events, concerts, or exhibitions, the Alliant Energy Center offers a welcoming atmosphere for all, making it a perfect spot for creating lasting memories.
Capitol Square: Stroll through this historic piazza and soak in the rich cultural heritage of Madison. Surrounded by impressive architecture and local shops, Capitol Square is a hub of activity, ideal for enjoying outdoor events, farmers' markets, and the vibrant city life.
Best time to go to Madison
The best time to visit Madison can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Madison falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Madison falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Madison
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling to Madison during the low season (December to February) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.