2025 Madison Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

Lake Mendota is the largest and northernmost of the four lakes in Madison, USA. It attracts many visitors for hiking and boating. I started my hike at the UW-Madison Lakeshore Nature Preserve and followed the trail to Picnic Point. The scenery along the way was delightful, filled with the essence of spring: trees sprouting fresh green buds, migratory birds returning and chirping on the branches... After reaching Picnic Point, I retraced my steps and continued along the University Bay Trail. This area was bustling with cyclists. We walked all the way to Memorial Union, marking the end of our hiking journey.

While returning from Tumbled Rock Trail, I happened to pass by the corner of S Gammon Rd and Watts Rd, right across from Woodman's Food Market. I unexpectedly spotted Tibet Kitchen, a Tibetan restaurant in Madison, which piqued my curiosity. Without hesitation, I parked and went inside. Upon entering, I was greeted by a painting of the Potala Palace. It seems this Tibetan restaurant is quite popular, with a steady stream of diners and numerous takeout orders. We ordered an ice jelly dessert, a plate of steamed dumplings, a bowl of noodle dough pieces, and a dish of stir-fried lamb. Everything was incredibly delicious, bringing back the long-missed flavors. Moreover, the prices were very reasonable—less than $61 (with a 5% discount for cash payments). Tips are optional.

The sunny weather makes me want to go out for a hike and breathe in some fresh air. After checking Google Maps, I found a few small parks nearby and a trail called Jeffy Trail, so I grabbed my hat and set off. Starting from Mansion Hill Ave, I crossed the road and turned left onto S Pleasant View Rd trail (there’s also a bike path alongside the trail). Occasionally, hikers and cyclists passed by. On the right side, there’s a golf course with nice scenery, and even early in the morning, golf enthusiasts were already playing. After passing two intersections, I turned left again and went through a tunnel, then continued along Flagstone Dr, quickly entering Jeffy Trail. Although the forest is dense, the beautiful villa villages on both sides of the trail are quite pleasing to the eye. Passing Starr Grass Dr, I returned to the starting point. Jeffy Trail isn’t very long. Walking a full loop from start to finish, it’s all hiking paths (and bike paths). The scenery along the way is delightful, and the beautiful views make the hike enjoyable. Time flies when you’re surrounded by such beauty!

#AprilGoodDestinations2025 This hotel is located in the heart of Madison, across from the Wisconsin State Capitol. Rare Steakhouse is an upscale steakhouse. From the moment you enter, the elegant decoration and dim atmosphere are destined to be an extraordinary high-end dining experience. Moreover, the waiter's recommendations are based on the diners' perspective, not sales pitches. 1. Fried goose liver with toast: The goose liver melts in your mouth and is very fragrant. The waiter reminded us that because it was very greasy, we could just order a shared portion for three people. 2. Lobster Bisque: The soup is very thick and the lobster meat is very tender. The waiter reminded us to order a shared dish for three if we were not very hungry, otherwise we would not be able to finish the main course. 3. Crab cake: The cake is not big but has lots of crab meat and is very tender. 4. Japanese A5 Wagyu: The Wagyu is placed on a piece of Himalayan rock salt for natural flavor. Although it comes with seasoning, I think it tastes better without it. The waiter reminded me that 2 ounces is enough, luckily, otherwise 3 ounces would have been wasted. 5. American Wagyu: Although it doesn’t have the taste of Japanese Wagyu, it is roasted to the perfect degree of doneness and is very fragrant. 6. Lobster Ravioli: Not bad, the skin is a bit thick and hard, not as delicious as in Italy. 7. Grilled asparagus: very tender. 8. Caramel pudding: not too sweet, with a light coffee aroma. The best pudding I have ever had. 9. Cheesecake: The cheese is rich in flavor, but the cake underneath is very sweet. 10. A glass of ice wine: sweet and refreshing. I don't know how to taste wine, but I just think it tastes good. Including the tip, it was nearly $500. Although it was a bit expensive, it was a great experience. #Restaurant Introduction #Steakhouse #Guest Madison

#AprilGoodDestinations2025 The Capitol in Madison, the capital of Wisconsin, is 284.5 feet high, only 3 feet lower than the Capitol in Washington, making it the tallest building in Madison. Besides the parliament, the state's governor's office and the Supreme Court are also housed in this building. This beautiful domed granite building has marble beams, columns and walls. These marbles and granites come from different countries. The sculpture on the top of the dome represents the meaning of "moving forward" in Wisconsin; the oil paintings inside also reflect the state's economic development and heritage. Climb to the highest observation deck and overlook the radiating appearance of Madison. One level below the observation deck is a historical exhibition that details the history of the construction of the Parliament Building. The Capitol is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. #historicbuildings #visitingmadison

#AprilGoodDestinations2025 Continue to search for good Chinese food in Madison. I was strolling along East Wilson Street that day and accidentally saw Hutong Bistro. I thought it was a Chinese restaurant, so I went in. Although the space inside is not large, the intervals between the tables are not crowded and there are many people coming to eat. Its tableware is uniform, with cups, plates, bowls and even soup spoons all having rooster patterns. The key to finding delicious food is of course how the dishes on the table taste. 1. Cold bamboo shoots: tastes good, I thought I would eat this when I return to Hong Kong. 2. Stir-fried green beans with garlic: very fragrant and has a nice aroma. It will taste better if you cut off the head and tail before frying. 3. Hutong cheese: has the flavor of Beijing old yogurt. 4. Scallion pancake: fragrant, crispy, thin and of high quality. 5. Mutton skewers: have a mutton flavor, very fragrant. 6. Curry pork chop rice: Rich curry flavor, the pork chop is fried crispy and tasty. The three of us shared this bowl of rice and were full. 7. Beef Rice: There is a lot of beef and it is very fragrant. If you can’t finish it, you have to pack it up. The total for three people including tip was $107. #RestaurantIntroduction #GuestMadison

#AprilGoodDestinations2025 When visiting Madison, take some time to visit Olbrich Botanical Gardens. The Botanical Gardens is a charming public botanical garden located approximately 3 km from the city center. Although the breath of spring has not yet arrived in the botanical garden in April and the overall tone is still cold, the scene under the blue sky and white clouds gives me a kind of cold beauty. The Thai garden here is the only park in the United States with this as its main theme. Although it is small in size, it is exquisite. Another wood-themed garden features three wooden sculptures that symbolize hope. The tower garden, French garden...are all worth your lingering visit. A waterway runs through the botanical gardens, with rowboats passing by, bringing life to the park in late winter and early spring. I heard from a friend that in June, the garden is lush and green, and many newlyweds like to come here to take wedding photos. #ParkBeauty #WisconsinTourism

If you're visiting Wisconsin, make sure to stop by the University of Wisconsin-Madison, located in the state capital, to soak in its rich academic atmosphere. Founded in 1848, this public research university is considered one of the Ivy League institutions. I visited during late April, just before the university's graduation ceremonies in May. The campus was bustling with students dressed in graduation gowns, capturing memorable photos. The campus is expansive, and its long history is reflected in its elegant and classic architecture. Strolling through the grounds is not only a journey through history but also an appreciation of architectural artistry. Every building is worth a visit and a photo. Situated by Lake Mendota, the university is further enhanced by its natural beauty. Walking along the lakeside, you can relive the romantic memories of student life at this remarkable institution.

#europetrip Merry Christmas and happy holidays from our little family to yours! ❤️ We decided to do a little staycation this Christmas the lowell hotel in the Upper East Side so that we can be close to all the festive Christmas decorations on 5th Ave. The dog-friendly hotel is luxuriously cozy and retains it’s historical charm, especially with the real wood-burning fireplace, which we lit up last night for extra warmth and Christmas Eve coziness - such a treat. I also love that its proximity to the 5th Ave shopping street and Central Park (just a block and half away!), which we got to explore this morning. Hope you’re all staying warm and and enjoying the holidays! ✨ #travel

#December Travel Support Event I recommend Qingdao Grand Madison Hotel. It's a place I really like. I hope you all visit there once. I really like this place. It's a really famous place in Qingdao. I hope you visit there once. And the service was really good! Top tier in Qingdao!

nice lake with sunrise

#summerdestinations

Hey wanderlust warriors! 🌍✈️ If you're plotting a course to Madison, Wisconsin, let me drop a gem on your travel map. 🗺️ The Graduate Madison is not just a stay; it's an experience wrapped in coziness with a bow of scenic beauty. First off, the rooms are like a warm hug from your favorite blanket – spacious and spotless. 🛌✨ You'll have all the amenities you need to recharge after a day of exploring. And speaking of exploring, you're smack dab in the heart of Madison with views that'll make your Instagram followers green with envy. 📸🏞️ Foodies, rejoice! 🍽️ The dining is top-notch, with flavors that'll dance on your palate without waltzing away with your wallet – we're talking value that sings. Plus, the hotel's facilities are the cherry on top of an already delectable sundae. 🍒 So, whether you're here for the sights, the bites, or the nights, the Graduate Madison is your go-to for a memorable stay. Trust me; it's a slice of hospitality heaven! 🛎️💖 Ready to book your next adventure? 📍 601 Langdon St, Madison, Wisconsin, 53703

Wave goodbye to travel woes and hello to comfy beds and stellar service! 🛏️💤 Here's the scoop on a top pick hotel in Madison that'll have you booking your next stay ASAP. 🌇 First up, location, location, location! Nestled right in the heart of downtown, you're a hop, skip, and a jump away from all the city buzz. Plus, the views? Absolutely Madison-esque! 🧼 Step into spotless rooms that scream 'cleanliness is next to godliness'. They've nailed the art of a squeaky-clean stay, so you can kick back and relax without a worry. 🍽️ Hungry? Their dining is a tastebud adventure, serving up deliciousness that'll have you coming back for seconds. Trust me, it's a foodie's delight! 💰 And let's talk bang for your buck. You'll feel like you've hit the jackpot with the value you get. Top-notch amenities without breaking the bank? Yes, please! Can't wait to curl up in luxury after a day of exploring? This hotel's got you covered! 📍 One N Webster St, Madison, Wisconsin, 53703 – see you there!

📍 The Edgewater 1001 Wisconsin Pl, Madison, Wisconsin, 53703 Hey, wanderlust buddies! 🌍 If you're plotting a getaway to Madison, let me spill the tea on a lakeside treasure – The Edgewater. 🛶 Nestled right by the water, this spot boasts killer views and a vibe that's just *chef's kiss*. 🌟 Imagine waking up to serene lake horizons 🌅 and dining with a view that's as delish as the food. 🍽️ Plus, when you're ready to explore, you're smack in the middle of all the action! 🚶‍♂️ Whether you're here for the chillaxing or the adventuring, The Edgewater is a no-brainer for your Madison stay. 🎒✨ Drop a 💙 if you're adding this to your travel bucket list!

#wheretogo The Great Dane pub, Madison, Wisconsin If you are in Madison make it a point to go here. This is a place with a traditional and casual pub settings where people get together and hang around to watch football matches and just to have fun nights over beer. Pleasantly surprised by their service, we had a large group and they were able to seat us down very soon. The food was outstanding, I ordered a burger and the portion was generous! Cheese curds were some of the best we have had. Of course we had to order beer in here, that's the reason we picked this place! Love it!#timetotravel #foodie #barhopping

Now it past 45 days after I arrived here. madison start with fall and the weather is quite cold, but is still warm with beautiful sightseeing in this town. It is a capital city of Wisconsin and there is a huge campus in madison. I really recommended to visit here just to see Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. #wisconsin #madison

A trip to Madison in search of a cold place during the cold winter The experience of walking on a snow-covered lake and the night view of the Capitol from a night view restaurant💙 I can't forget it 📍Wisconsin state capitol There is a Wisconsin state capitol building in Madison. The exterior is pretty, but the interior is also pretty, so be sure to go in! 📍Lake Mendota Madison is surrounded by huge lakes like the ocean!! In the middle of winter, it freezes over so you can walk on it, play soccer(?), and skate! 📍Wisconsin Cheese Mart Wisconsin is famous for cheese! You can buy various cheeses cheaply. I tried the caramel-flavored cheese that they sell, and it was so delicious! 📍Eno Vino Downtown, Madison, WI It's a great bar where you can see the night view of the Capitol at a glance. If you visit early, they sometimes have a cocktail happy hour event, so visit a little early and watch the sunset first!🤍 #USATravel#WisconsinTravel#MadisonTravel