Madison: A 5-Day Romantic Retreat

Fall in love all over again in Madison, where romance blooms in the heart of America.

22 April 2023

Madison, located in Wisconsin, offers ideal romantic getaways with its serene and picturesque landscapes. A visit to Olbrich Botanical Gardens, Picnic Point, and the Chazen Museum of Art are some of the must-do activities to indulge in with your significant other. Experience the local cuisine at the iconic State Street, and take a stroll by Lake Mendota for the perfect romantic evening.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Waterfront Stroll

  • Check into the cozy and boutique Graduate Madison hotel located in the heart of the city
  • Enjoy a hearty brunch at the popular Marigold Kitchen, known for their farm-to-table dishes
  • Take a romantic stroll along the stunning Lake Monona waterfront and capture some Instagram-worthy shots
  • Visit the vibrant State Street for some retail therapy and buy souvenirs from quirky markets
  • Dine at the Tornado Steak House, a vintage spot loved for its steak and classic cocktails
Day 2

Museum Crawl and Ice Cream Treats

  • Have a leisurely breakfast at the Lazy Jane's café, famous for its creative breakfast options
  • Visit the Chazen Museum of Art and explore its extensive collection of contemporary artwork
  • Grab a scoop of the famous Babcock ice cream at Memorial Union Terrace overlooking Lake Mendota
  • Stop by the Wisconsin State Capitol and take a tour of this impressive architectural wonder
  • Feast on delicious seafood at the Tempest Oyster Bar's romantic setting
Day 3

Bike Ride and Sunset Views

  • Rent a tandem bike and ride along the scenic Capital City Trail
  • Visit the Olbrich Botanical Gardens to see the stunning rose garden and colorful landscapes
  • Grab lunch at the quirky food cart scene and try some delicious local bites
  • Take a walk to the iconic Picnic Point and enjoy stunning views of the sunset over Lake Mendota
  • Savor some Italian cuisine at the rustic and charming Osteria Papavero
Day 4

Winery Tour and Artisan Cheese Tasting

  • Enjoy a late breakfast at the Marquette Hotel's café and savor some organic farm-to-table dishes
  • Take a road trip to the picturesque Wollersheim Winery and indulge in some wine tastings
  • Visit the famous Fromagination cheese shop and sample some artisanal cheeses
  • Stroll along the colorful and bohemian Atwood Avenue neighborhood and explore its art galleries and vintage shops
  • Dine at the Graze restaurant for some elevated comfort food and craft cocktails
Day 5

Outdoor Adventures and Brewery Hopping

  • Start the day with some hearty breakfast sandwiches at Mickies Dairy Bar, a local institution
  • Visit the family-friendly Henry Vilas Zoo and see exotic animals
  • Taste some of the city's best craft beers at the Hop Cat brewery
  • Rent a paddleboat and explore the serene Lake Wingra
  • Savor some Scandinavian-inspired cuisine at the charming Sujeo restaurant
  • Note: This itinerary is subject to change depending on the season or weather conditions. Always check beforehand for openings and hours of operation.

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's Lakeside Romance

Madison, known as “The City of Four Lakes,” offers stunning lakefront views and a charming downtown. With plenty of cozy restaurants and intimate bars, it’s the perfect place to spend a romantic weekend away. Visit the Olbrich Botanical Gardens and take a stroll through the rose garden, or go for a romantic paddle boat ride on Lake Monona.

Madison's 3-Day Family Adventure: Lake Love Affair

Madison, United States is a perfect destination for a family friendly trip, offering a mix of outdoor adventures, educational experiences, and cultural attractions. Families can explore the beautiful and expansive Olbrich Botanical Gardens, spend a day at Henry Vilas Zoo, which is free for visitors, and learn about history and science at the interactive Wisconsin Historical Museum and the engaging Madison Children's Museum. With its picturesque landscapes, welcoming community, and diverse range of activities, Madison is an ideal destination for an enjoyable family getaway.

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.

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.