Madison, Wisconsin 8-Day Trip Itinerary

Travel to Madison

Drive from Lyons, WI to Madison, Wisconsin.

Enjoy the scenic route as you head to your getaway destination.

Hotel Check-in & Freshen Up

Check into your hotel, drop off your luggage, and get ready to explore the city.

Lunch on State Street

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the many vibrant eateries along State Street, offering diverse cuisines.

Wisconsin State Capitol Tour

Visit the majestic Roman Renaissance-style State Capitol, featuring the only granite dome in the U.

S. and intricate interiors.

Free guided tours are often available. Check the Capitol's official website for tour schedules.

Wisconsin Veterans Museum

Explore exhibits honoring Wisconsin veterans from the Civil War to the present day, learning about their service and sacrifice.

Admission is free.

Dinner in Downtown Madison

Savor dinner at a local favorite restaurant in downtown Madison, offering a variety of culinary styles.

Madison Ghost Tour

Uncover Madison’s spookiest secrets on a thrilling walking ghost tour through the city’s most haunted historic spots.

This tour is led by expert local guides and explores Madison's haunted history.

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby cafe.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Wander through this beautiful oasis, featuring a variety of themed gardens, including an indoor tropical conservatory.

A tranquil spot with diverse plant collections. Check their website for specific events or exhibit details.

Lunch Near Olbrich

Grab lunch at a cafe or restaurant close to the botanical gardens.

University of Wisconsin Campus

Take a stroll through the scenic campus of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, enjoying its vibrant atmosphere and historic buildings.

Highlights include Bascom Hill, Lincoln Terrace, and various academic buildings.

Allen Centennial Garden

Discover this charming public teaching garden on the UW-Madison campus, showcasing diverse plant collections and design styles.

A hidden gem, perfect for a relaxing walk.

Relax at Memorial Union Terrace

Enjoy the iconic Memorial Union Terrace, known for its colorful 'sunburst' chairs, lake views, and casual outdoor dining options on Lake Mendota.

Perfect spot for a drink and people-watching, with stunning sunset views.

Trolley Pub Public Tour

Experience Madison's best on this two-hour pedal-powered pub crawl, stopping at hot spots in Downtown Madison.

BYOB friendly!

A fun and unique way to see the city and visit local bars with your friends.

Breakfast at Local Cafe

Enjoy breakfast at a charming local Madison cafe, trying out some regional specialties.

Wisconsin's Madtown Self-Guided Tour

Travel between two lake-side terraces and enjoy some of Wisconsin's best cultural sites with this self-guided walking tour.

An immersive and flexible way to explore Madison's historically rich architecture and learn about the city at your own pace.

Chazen Museum of Art

Explore the extensive collections at the Chazen Museum of Art on the UW-Madison campus, featuring works from various periods and cultures.

Admission is free. Check their website for current exhibitions.

Lunch Near UW Campus

Enjoy lunch at a restaurant or cafe around the university area, perhaps trying a different local cuisine.

Madison Scavenger Hunt

Participate in a unique, immersive adventure with a remote, interactive live host to assist and encourage you through your puzzle-solving journey across Madison.

A fun and interactive way to explore hidden gems and landmarks with your friends.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a special farewell dinner at a highly-rated Madison restaurant, reflecting on your adventures.

Arrival in Madison

Travel from Lyons, WI to Madison and check into accommodation.

Explore initial city highlights.

Madison Culture & History

Enjoy cultural sites and historical landmarks in Madison.

Explore University Area & Lakes

Discover the vibrant University of Wisconsin-Madison campus and enjoy lakeside activities.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Explore 16 acres of outdoor display gardens, including the beautiful Thai Pavilion and authentic Thai Garden.

A perfect spot for relaxation and photography.

Check their website for special exhibits or events during your visit. The indoor Bolz Conservatory is also a highlight.

Allen Centennial Garden

Wander through this charming teaching garden on the UW-Madison campus, featuring diverse plant collections and unique landscape designs. A peaceful retreat.

Located on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, easily accessible.

Lunch at The Old Fashioned

Enjoy classic Wisconsin comfort food and local brews at this popular downtown Madison eatery, known for its extensive menu and bustling atmosphere.

Expect a lively atmosphere, especially on a Saturday. Great spot for cheese curds and a fish fry!

Trolley Pub Public Tour

Experience Madison's best on this two-hour pedal-powered pub crawl.

You'll stop at some of the hottest spots downtown on a mobile bar, perfect for a friends' trip.

Tours are BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage). A fun and interactive way to see the city and enjoy drinks.

Dinner: Farm-to-Table Experience

Savor Madison's local culinary scene with a farm-to-table dinner.

Many restaurants source ingredients from nearby Wisconsin farms.

Consider restaurants like Graft, Heritage Tavern, or Sardine for a high-quality dining experience. Reservations recommended.

Wisconsin Veterans Museum

Honor the stories of Wisconsin veterans from the Civil War to present day.

Engaging exhibits provide a deep dive into their sacrifices and contributions.

Free admission. Located near the State Capitol, making it easy to combine visits.

Wisconsin State Capitol Tour

Take a guided or self-guided tour of the majestic Roman Renaissance-style State Capitol, featuring the only granite dome in the U.

S. and stunning interior details.

Free public tours are usually offered daily, check their website for Sunday schedules. The observation deck offers panoramic views in warmer months.

Farewell Lunch in Downtown

Enjoy a final meal at a casual downtown cafe or restaurant before heading home.

Many options near the Capitol Square.

Consider something quick and easy like a cafe with sandwiches or salads.

Check-out & Souvenir Shopping

Check out from your hotel and pick up any last-minute souvenirs from local shops around State Street or Capitol Square.

Allow ample time for checkout and packing. State Street offers a variety of unique boutiques.

Depart Madison for Home

Begin your drive back to Lyons, WI, concluding your memorable friends' getaway.