Madison, Wisconsin. Have you heard of this gorgeous college town? Have you been? If you haven’t, you should!

As a rapidly growing college town that consistently appears on ‘Best of’ lists, there are numerous reasons to visit this popular city.

First, for families, one popular feature is that 98% of residents live within a 10-minute walk to a park. This was determined by the Trust for Public Land (https://www.tpl.org/city/madison-wisconsin)

Residents and visitors alike flock to the Farmers Market (Dane County Farmer’s Market), which is the largest producers-only farmers market in the country. Find out more here: https://dcfm.org/about

It is also the capital of Wisconsin. Completed in 1917, the capitol building is the tallest building in Madison. This stunning building sits within a large garden square. Learn more here.

So if you plan on making a trip to Madison and want to explore more than the standard tourist traps, try the following day trip itinerary.

1. Start with breakfast at McFarland House Cafe in the neighboring town of McFarland, WI. This popular breakfast spot is family owned and has a wide ranging, expansive menu. I recommend the French toast, with a side of sausage and fruit, complemented by a cold brew.

While waiting for your order, browse the retail section for various local products. I recommend the Black Sheep Chocolate – the single origin dark chocolate is amazing!

Address: 5923 Exchange Street, McFarland, WI

2. Next stop: Lower Yahara River Trail, with an entry point in McFarland and close to McFarland House Café.

A short walk from the trail head is a mile long boardwalk over Lake Waubesa. This boardwalk is the longest in-land non-motorized boardwalk bridge in North America, per https://parks-lwrd.danecounty.gov/Trail/Lower-Yahara-River-Trail. With beautiful views everywhere, you can enjoy all nature has to offer.

Address: 4081 McDaniel Lane, McFarland, WI

3. Find it all at Hilldale Mall!

Hilldale mall is an outdoor shopping mall on the west side of Madison. Hilldale is unique compared to other outdoor malls, in that it is very kid friendly, in my experience. Near the Macy’s is a big green grassy area kids can play on (and events occur) while the plaza area has a life size chess board with other games. You can also find locally-grown vegetables and other unique finds at the Saturday Farmer’s Market, from May through October. Of course you will find great eats and shopping, too!

Address: 726 N. Midvale Blvd, Madison, WI

4. Finish your day with a satisfying dinner at Mirch Masala also on the west side. Mirch Masala offers a large South Indian and Nepalese menu at reasonable prices. Swing by at lunch and find a buffet! Popular menu items are the Samosa’s and butter chicken. When we had dinner here recently, we sampled the Lamb Vindaloo and it did not disappoint. The portion size was large and the lamb was tender, with the spices expertly melding together. I’m already dreaming about my next visit and what to try.

Address: 439 Grand Canyon Drive, Madison, WI

Madison is a beautiful, vibrant city with many hidden gems. What will you try first?

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