Four-Season Adventures Await
Nestled between four lakes with an isthmus between the largest two (one of only two major cities built on an isthmus), Greater Madison is the perfect home for anyone who loves the outdoors – whether you prefer tranquil walks or a day of kiteboarding.
With miles of biking and hiking trails, and countless opportunities for kayaking or paddleboarding, adventure awaits right outside your door.
A Year-Round Playground
As the seasons change, so do the recreational opportunities. In the summer, take full advantage of the surrounding lakes, enjoying boating, paddling, sailing and fishing. Madison’s miles of bike trails serve up scenic rides, while the region’s hundreds of parks invite you to play sports, hike or relax outdoors.
As fall arrives, vibrant, fiery colors line the trails of the UW-Madison Arboretum and three State Parks (Devil’s Lake, Govenor Nelson and Govenor Dodge), providing a stunning backdrop for hikers and fall foliage lovers.
We have a saying here: There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing. As Winter transforms Greater Madison into a hub for cold-weather fun, the city never freezes with ice skating at The Edgewater, groomed cross-country ski trails, ice fishing, Olympic-level ski jumping, and glass-like ice perfect for iceboating.
When spring returns, outdoor sports leagues, blooming parks and water sports all make a return. No matter the season, there are endless opportunities for fun.
Dive In: Endless Water Adventures
With abundant lakes surrounding the city, Madison offers endless opportunities for water lovers. Spend the day on Lake Mendota and rent paddleboards, kayaks or canoes from the Wisconsin Union, or charter a boat to explore Dane County’s largest lake. Over on Lake Monona, relax at one of its six beaches or parks or take a refreshing swim.
Beyond our largest lakes, Lake Wingra, Lake Waubesa and Lake Kegonsa offer even more opportunities for fun on the water. Anglers will love casting a line in any of these lakes, with species like perch, crappie, bluegill, walleye, bass, northern pike and the mighty musky ready to be caught.
Explore on Two Wheels
Madison is one of only five Platinum Bike Cities in the country, with more than 60 miles of scenic biking trails that wind through the city’s neighborhoods, parks and picturesque waterfronts. For breathtaking views of Lake Monona and the Madison skyline, embark on the 13-mile Monona Lake Loop, complete with stops for a mid-ride treat or a relaxing break. If you prefer a more nature-focused ride, the UW-Madison Arboretum offers a 6.3-mile loop surrounded by woodlands, gardens and prairies.
The city is also known for its bike-friendly infrastructure, including dedicated bike lanes and electric BCycle bike sharing, making navigating the city on two wheels easy and enjoyable. Whether you’re a casual rider or an avid cyclist, our cycling culture offers endless exploration and adventure year-round.
Your Gateway to Midwest Adventure and City Excitement
Nestled in the heart of South Central Wisconsin, Madison is the perfect hub for exploring the best of the Midwest. In under three hours, you can easily escape to the Windy City for a day of world-class dining, entertainment, and culture in Chicago. Meanwhile, Milwaukee is only an hour’s drive to the east, where you can enjoy Wisconsin’s largest city with its festivals, professional sports and breweries.
For those who want to dive deep into nature, the Northwoods are within reach of Madison. Only a three-hour drive north, Minocqua is our beloved gateway to northern Wisconsin’s beautiful lakes and forests. Outdoor adventure awaits in the Northwoods, where there is plenty of hiking, fishing and camping.
Easy Transit
Navigating through Madison is a breeze, thanks to its well-connected public transportation system. The city’s all-electric Bus Rapid Transit service makes getting around town convenient, fast and affordable. The different bus routes will lead you to explore local neighborhoods, parks and recreational spots. When that jet-setting spirit awakens, the Dane County Airport offers direct flights to most major hubs and 17 non-stop flights.
With most destinations reachable on foot, free yourself from relying on a car. Plus, the city is one of the bike-friendliest, making cycling an easy option for getting around town. Whether commuting to work or exploring downtown, transportation like Madison’s Bus Rapid Transit ensures you spend more time enjoying the city and less time in traffic.