Things to do in Madison

Wisconsins variety of landscape makes it a popular holiday destination for outdoor activities. Activities during the winter months include snowmobile derbies, skiing and ice fishing. Additionally, the state boasts many beautiful lakes of varied sizes. The Door Peninsula extends off the states eastern coast and contains one of Wisconsins most fabulous tourist hotspots, Door County. This region attracts thousands of travellers annually to its idyllic villages, popular fish boils and seasonal cherry picking.

Monona Terrace

This is without a doubt one of the citys highlights. It was the last creation of the famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. This architectural masterpiece, which overlooks Lake Monona, is a must-see. Used for community events and activities as well as for conventions, there is always something going one here thats worth a look Website: www.mononaterrace.com/.

State street

State Street is a unique thoroughfare in the city centre of Madison. It is alive with activity and boasts block after block of specialty outlets, gift and souvenir shops, art galleries, women's boutiques, theatres, ethnic shops, museums, dining establishments and outdoor sidewalk cafs.

Madisons music scene

The citys lively music scene covers a wide spectrum of living musical culture.
The Madison Opera offers an entire season of performances, providing at least two full productions and the extremely popular Opera in the Park each year. Additionally, the nationally reputed company produces recitals and its late series, Opera up Close. The Bugle Corps and Madison Scouts Drum have been providing the opportunity for young musicians to perform across the United States and Canada every summer since 1938. The corps is renowned all over the world for its dynamic and entertaining performances. Further, the UW-Madison Marching Band is one of the United States most popular marching bands, with a comprehensive and eclectic repertoire.

Garbage is Madisons most hailed contemporary contribution to pop music. The million CD selling alternative pop group has been based out of the city since its formation in 1994.

University of Wisconsin

The states largest university was founded in 1848. It is the United States 10th largest university in terms of student population, with a total enrollment of over 41,000 students, of whom about 29,000 are undergraduates. The University of Wisconsin has long been reputed as one of the nations great universities. The instituation offers a comprehensive spectrum of student activities, liberal arts studies and professional programmes, and is recognised as a world leader in public service, instruction and research. Phone: +1 608 263 2400.

Milwaukee

Wisconsins largest city, Milwaukee is situated approximately an hours drive east of Madison on Lake Michigans western shore. The city is also known as the beer capital of the USA and is filled with friendly folk and good times. Down by the lake in the Port district is the most idyllic and enjoyable location to stroll in Milwaukee. This renovated area boasts a gorgeous harbour, some of the citys finest restaurants, a lighthouse and breakwater. The area is also within convenient walking distance of downtown Milwaukee and some excellent upscale shopping options. Boat trips of the harbour are available, operated by Iroquois Boat Line Tours (tel: +1 414 294 9450).

Wisconsin Dells

Without a doubt the largest attraction in Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Dells is a wonderful huge park located west of Milwaukee on I-94. Also known as the Water Park Capital of the World, the site boasts soaring sandstone cliffs and peaceful fern gullies which merge with a full-scale amusement park that includes some of the United States best water rides. The Dells rank as one of the nations most popular resort areas and are ideal for couples or the entire family. Website: www.dells.com/.

Popular cities near Madison

There are several interesting cities situated near to Madison which make great daytrips. These include: Lake Geneva, Appleton, Green Bay, Kenosha, Sheboygan, Eau Claire, Stevens Point and Oshkosh. Sheboygan in particular is a rewarding town to visit. It has a population of approximately 52,000 and is renowned for hosting the worlds largest freshwater surfing competition, while Oshkosh is best known for OshKosh B'Gosh, an overalls and children clothes manufacturer that was founded in the city in 1895.