Madison in 3 Days: Nature, Culture, and Fun!

Experience the vibrant culture and scenic beauty of Madison, USA.

22 April 2023

Madison offers a unique blend of urban and natural attractions that make it a great tourist destination. Visitors can explore the city's vibrant downtown area, which is home to top-rated restaurants, museums and art galleries. In addition, there are plenty of outdoor activities available, including hiking, kayaking, and cycling, which can be enjoyed in the surrounding lakes and parks.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Madison

  • After checking in at Graduate Madison, head to Picnic Point for a stunning view of Lake Mendota. Stroll down State Street and stop at Ian's Pizza for a slice of their famous Mac 'n Cheese pie. Visit the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Memorial Union Terrace for a beer and live music. Grab dinner at the Old Fashioned, a cozy spot serving up classic Wisconsin fare. End the night with cocktails on the rooftop at the AC Hotel.
Day 2

Nature and Culture

  • Start the day with a hike through the stunning Olbrich Botanical Gardens. Next, head to the Chazen Museum of Art to see their impressive collection of contemporary and historic art. Grab lunch at Graze, a farm-to-table gem serving up inventive dishes. Spend the afternoon at the Overture Center for the Arts, catching a play or dance performance. End the day with a cozy dinner at Sardine, a French-inspired restaurant serving up fresh seafood.
Day 3

Madison Must-Sees

  • Start the day with coffee from Colectivo and a walk around the Capitol Square. Visit the Wisconsin Historical Museum for a deep dive into the state's rich history. For lunch, grab a hot dog and beer at Madison's iconic State Street Brats. Spend the afternoon at the Henry Vilas Zoo, home to over 800 animals. End the trip with dinner at Heritage Tavern, a farm-to-table spot featuring local ingredients and creative dishes.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Madison, United States by plane is to fly into Dane County Regional Airport. Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and United offer direct flights to Madison from cities like Chicago, New York, and Atlanta.

Car

The best way to get to Madison, United States by car is to take Interstate 90/94, which connects Madison to cities like Chicago and Minneapolis.

Train

Currently, there is no passenger train that goes directly to Madison, United States.

Boat

Madison is located inland and there are no major ports or waterways that connect to the city. Therefore, travel by boat is not a viable option to get to Madison, United States.

Bus

The best way to get to Madison, United States by bus is through the Greyhound Station in Madison. Greyhound offers regular service from cities like Chicago, Milwaukee, and Minneapolis.

Destination

Madison

Looking for a city that's more than just a cheesehead paradise? Look no further than Madison, where the beer flows like water and the lakes are never too frozen for a good paddle.

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Madison on a Budget: 3 Days of Fun!

Madison, United States, is an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers seeking a blend of city life and outdoor adventure. Visitors can explore the city's art and music scene, visit the free Wisconsin Historical Museum, and stroll along the scenic Lake Monona. Additionally, the city offers various budget-friendly accommodation options, including hostels and camping sites.

Budget Bliss: Madison's Best 2-Day Adventure

Madison, located in Wisconsin, offers a range of experiences for those on a tight budget. Visitors can explore the free-to-enter Olbrich Botanical Gardens, take a bike ride along Lake Monona, or visit the state capital building for a guided tour. To save on food costs, try dining at local food trucks or cafes instead of restaurants.

Madison Day Trip: Culture, Food, and Nature

As a tourist in Madison, visitors can indulge in the city's vibrant cultural scene and bustling downtown area. Nature lovers can explore the city's many vibrant parks and nature reserves, while history buffs can discover Madison's rich historical past through its many museums and landmarks. With delicious dining options and a wide range of accommodation, Madison is a destination that caters to a broad variety of interests.

Madison, WI: The Ultimate 5-Day Budget Adventure

Madison is a vibrant and lively city in the heart of Wisconsin, and despite its reputation for being expensive, it's possible to visit on a limited budget. A great way to do this is by taking advantage of the numerous free attractions, such as the stunning State Capitol building and the beautiful Olbrich Botanical Gardens. For budget-friendly accommodation, consider staying in one of the many inexpensive hostels or campgrounds in the surrounding areas.