Madison, Wisconsin in 24 Hours: Your Ultimate Travel Itinerary

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Monday through Friday in Madison

We like to take advantage of holidays when traveling. However, Juneteenth fell on Wednesday this year, so we couldn’t travel far without taking off additional days. We chose Madison because it’s less than 3 hours (160 miles) from our front door. It also offered the opportunity to spend a few days in Wisconsin– a state we had never visited before. Luckily, Madison, Wisconsin, offers a blend of cultural and natural attractions, making it a good choice. Here are seven things to do in Madison during a Monday through Friday getaway for two.

Table of Contents

• Monday through Friday in Madison
• Road Trip in the Middle of the Week
• 1. Visit Capitol Square
• 1a. Things to Do in the Capitol Square Monday through Friday in Madison
• 2. Walk Along State Street
• 3. Visit the Olbrich Botanical Gardens
• 4. Cheese Curds Anyone?
• 5. Cafe Hopping Main Street
• 6. Visit Art Deco State
• Lunch at Sweetgreen State
• 7. Enjoy a Wisconsin Butter Burger
• Other Attractions in the Area
• Where We Stayed
• Conclusion

Road Trip in the Middle of the Week

Having the luxury to take off in the middle of the week is not lost on me. Neither was the lack of traffic and the ability to stop and admire all the wildflowers which were intense.

As you drive through the countryside, the view from your car window reveals the meticulous symmetry of crop fields stretching far into the distance. These perfectly aligned rows form a striking pattern, each line of crops running parallel to the next. The contrast between the rich, earthy tones of the soil and the vibrant greens of the plants accentuates the geometry.

The effect is almost hypnotic, accented by the colorful carpet woven with wildflowers, stretching across the rolling hills where vibrant splashes of yellow and purple from Black-eyed Susans and Purple Coneflowers flourish. Interspersed among them, the delicate white and yellow of Daisy Fleabane dots the landscape, while the ethereal white blooms of Queen Anne’s Lace sway gently in the breeze. Lavender hues of Wild Bergamot attract busy bees, enriching the tapestry, and the intense yellow of Goldenrod and the subtle blues of Wild Lupine add depth and contrast. This scenic drive through Wisconsin’s picturesque countryside is a visual feast, made even more enjoyable with the handy insights from PlantApp.

1. Visit Capitol Square

Interestingly, Madison is one of only two major cities in the United States, built on an isthmus between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. This narrow strip of land houses the downtown area, including the Wisconsin State Capitol, providing the city with waterfront views on both sides of the city and various recreational opportunities.

I initially included one stock photo of the Capitol because every “Top 10 Madison” list includes a tour of the Capitol. I thought it was just included as something to do Monday through Friday in Madison, given there wasn’t much to do outside the weekend. However, I was wrong. Once we reached the top of State Street, it didn’t make sense not to visit, and I’m glad we did.

The Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison is a Beaux-Arts masterpiece featuring a grand dome, white granite exterior, and intricate carvings. The rotunda showcases stunning murals, marble floors, and decorative stencils. The legislative chambers and observation deck highlight rich wood paneling and offer panoramic views of Madison. It also presented a sorrowful yet poignant reminder about our inability to reduce gun violence in this country. Large pictures. of kids who died from gun violence, not able to enjoy their childhood or any more summers, were displayed on the second-floor rotunda.

Daily free tours are available. See http://tours.wisconsin.gov for more information. Wheelchair-accessible entrances are located between the wings of the Capitol, and elevators are available up to the fourth floor.

Hours: Monday – Friday: 8 am – 6 pm, Weekends and Holidays: 8 am – 4 pm.

1b. Things to Do in the Capitol Square Monday through Friday in Madison

• Wisconsin State Capitol: Visit this iconic building, the centerpiece of Capitol Square. Take a tour to explore its stunning architecture, historic murals, legislative chambers, and observation deck, which offers panoramic views of Madison.
• Fromagination: Located on Capitol Square, Fromagination (fromade + imagination) boasts Madison’s largest selection of artisanal cheeses. This charming store offers a variety of local and international cheeses. The day we vidited, we tasted two cheeses – a very cheddar cheddar and a soft Muenster. If you love cheese, check it out.
• Concerts on the Square: Enjoy live music performances on Capitol Square every Wednesday. Bring a blanket and picnic to experience this beloved summer tradition.
• Wisconsin Veterans Museum: Explore this museum across from the capitol, honoring the men and women who served in the U.S. military. Exhibits span from the Civil War to present conflicts, offering an educational and inspiring visit into the history and sacrifices of veterans.

2. Walk Along State Street

The weekend is busy, but State Street is busy Monday through Friday in Madison. Make time to walk down both sides of State Street. State Street stretches about one mile from the Wisconsin State Capitol Square to the University of Wisconsin campus. There isn’t much shade, but plenty of places to rest your feet along the way. Check out the unique stores, boutiques, and local shops. Discover handmade crafts, quirky gifts, and eclectic clothing. While you’re there, be sure to visit the following places. If you like soap products, don’t miss Soap Opera: A store with an extensive variety of soap products, perfect for picking up unique and fragrant souvenirs.

3. Visit the Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Spend time at Olbrich Botanical Gardens. The gardens are very popular and if you’re in Madison Monday through Friday, you’re in luck. I counted 8 different state license plates in the parking lot. Walk hand-in-hand through the blooming landscapes. The Thai Pavilion (currently closed for roof renovations) and Garden are especially romantic and serene, and they are the only Thai ornamental pavilions in the United States. It also features 20 different gardens, including a rose garden, herb garden, and the Bolz Conservatory ($6 per adult). Olbrich is massive, with many places to sit and enjoy every flower. Don’t forget the bug repellent, or you won’t enjoy it fully.

The Olbrich After Hours series, starting soon, runs from June 25 to August 13, 2024. It transforms a midweek day like Tuesday into a special occasion in Madison. It’s a vibrant mix of music, performances, and food. The botanical gardens stay open late for visitors to enjoy diverse musical acts, pop-up performances, and tasty treats from food carts. Refreshments include microbrews, cocktails, and mocktails. Each event supports eco-friendly organizations and suggests a $5 donation to aid performers. Events may move indoors or be rescheduled due to weather, with updates posted by 3 PM on event days.

4. Cheese Curds Anyone?

Many places serve cheese curds. Hollander Cafe, is one of them. It is a cozy place with a European feel that serves brunch and dinner. They have a variety of food, including Belgian dishes and American favorites. Popular items include mussels, burgers, and many craft beers and wines. The cafe is great for brunch, lunch, or dinner, with nice decor and outdoor seating. They also have a special cheese selection and a Friday Fish Fry to enjoy.

5. Cafe Hopping Main Street

You know I love checking out cafes when we travel. You don’t have to wait until the weekend. Monday through Friday is a great time to get caffeinated in Madison. Take a stroll through the campus grounds, its beautiful. I even peeped out a red castle that’s now the armory and gymnasium, lol. There were also many foods carts serving everything from fresh juice to kebabs.

• Michelangelo’s Coffee House, perched at the top of State Street near the State Capitol building, offers a delightful retreat from the daily grind. Visitors can enjoy a unique collection of rotating art and Renaissance-inspired frescos in a welcoming space catering to social gatherings and quiet work sessions.
• Fair Trade Coffee House has a good amount of coffee, smoothies, sweet treats, and sandwiches.
• Start your day with a visit to Lane’s Bakery and Cafe, a beloved local spot known for its delicious pastries, cakes, and coffee. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and indulge in their famous treats. This cozy cafe on the campus of the University of Wisconsin has been serving coffee and sweet treats since 1954.

6. Visit Art Gecko State

You get pulled in by the hanging lanterns and decorative Buddhas in the window. Art Gecko on State Street is my kind of woo-woo store. It offers a diverse selection of home decor items made from recycled and sustainable materials. You can find unique items like hanging lamps, pillows, meditation cushions, lightweight furniture, and outdoor statues. The store also features Wisconsin decor, seasonal decorations, and a variety of meaningful stones and incense. I bought an incense holder with a leaning Buddha. It’s a pretty store, so check it out. For more details, visit Art Gecko State.

Lunch at Sweetgreen State

Sweetgreen is a restaurant that focuses on plant-forward meals and offers healthy and sustainable options. Its menu features a variety of salads, warm bowls, and plates made from fresh, high-quality ingredients. We shared a garlic steak rice bowl with pesto. It was good, but it didn’t meet my expectations regarding taste or presentation. The highlight for me was trying the lemon-lime Olipop and people-watching down State Street. For more information and locations, go to https://www.sweetgreen.com/menu.

7. Enjoy a Wisconsin Butter Burger

The butter burger is a Wisconsin classic, a testament to the state’s love for dairy and comfort food. The signature feature of this burger is the generous slab of butter placed on top of the patty, which melts into the meat, creating a rich, flavorful experience. However, there is some disagreement about the amount of butter used in an authentic butter burger.

We had to settle for a butter burger at Culver’s. To our surprise, the burgers and cheese curds (yellow cheese, which Steven liked better than the white cheese at Hollander) were delicious. We can’t wait to try one at a non-chain restaurant.

Here are some of the best places to enjoy butter burgers in Wisconsin:

• Solly’s Grille in Milwaukee: Famous for its butter burgers since 1936, making it a must-visit for this culinary delight.
• Kroll’s West in Green Bay: Offers a fantastic butter burger, a local favorite, especially on game days.
• Culver’s: A Wisconsin-based fast-food chain that has popularized the butter burger nationwide. Their version is consistently delicious, making it a convenient option nationwide.

Other Attractions in the Area

I like to stop at attractions along the way. Here are three things I found between the Quad Cities and Madison, Wisconsin, that I think would be fun to stop at for a coffee, stretch my legs, or do some shopping:

Maquoketa Caves State Park, Iowa

This park offers beautiful natural caves, hiking trails, and picnic areas. It’s a perfect spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the beauty of nature before continuing your journey to Madison.

New Glarus, Wisconsin

Known as “America’s Little Switzerland,” New Glarus is famous for its Swiss heritage, architecture, and excellent breweries, including the New Glarus Brewing Company. It’s an ideal place to enjoy local brews and immerse yourself in its unique culture. Visit the New Glarus Brewing Company is a must. Known for its renowned Spotted Cow beer, the brewery offers tours and tastings in a picturesque setting. Enjoy a self-guided tour, sample their diverse beer selection, and relax on the beautiful grounds. The brewery’s hilltop location provides stunning views, making it a delightful experience for beer lovers and casual visitors alike.

Mineral Point, Wisconsin

Dive into a bit of Cornish history and culture in Mineral Point, a small town offering arts and crafts shops, galleries, and traditional Cornish pasties. A must-do activity is visiting Pendarvis, a historic site with beautifully restored 19th-century stone cottages built by Cornish immigrants. Explore the heritage of the town through guided tours, exhibits, and charming gardens. Mineral Point is a delightful stop that adds history and creativity to your trip.

Where We Stayed

We stayed at the Madison Marriott West, a convenient and comfortable choice for our Monday through Friday getaway. The hotel is located at:
Madison Marriott West
1313 John Q Hammons Dr
Middleton, WI 53562

Conclusion

Madison, Wisconsin, offers a variety of romantic activities perfect for a Monday through Friday getaway. From enjoying delicious treats at Lane’s Bakery and Cafe to taking a serene boat ride on Lake Mendota, you and your partner can create lasting memories in this charming city. Interesting pit stops like Maquoketa Caves State Park, New Glarus, and Mineral Point will fill your trip to Madison with unique experiences and delightful discoveries. Staying at the Madison Marriott West ensures easy access to these attractions, making your Monday through Friday getaway both convenient and unforgettable.

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