In spring, the American Midwest’s stunning lakes and national parks, up-and-coming cities, and great outdoors wake up full of character and color – it’s little wonder it’s been voted one of the best places to live in America.
From outdoor activities to cultural and historical attractions, Madison and Wisconsin as a whole are great places to be during the spring. UW-Madison has its own museums, galleries, historical buildings, and popular new hotspots. You’ll know spring has arrived when you head to the Memorial Union Terrace after a seminar — it’s a hub for students and locals to mingle, enjoy a drink or something to eat, and listen to live music on the outdoor patio.
Venture beyond your university to explore the best of Wisconsin during one of the finest times of
the year.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Spring is the perfect time to visit the Olbrich Botanical Gardens and see the beautiful flowers, trees, and plants as they blossom and flourish. Take a guided tour, do some yoga, or sign up for one of the many workshops.
Lakeshore Path
A scenic route to meander along the edge of Lake Mendota, with its stunning views of the water, the city, and the surrounding landscape – and the spring flowers slowly appearing, too.
On Your Bike!
If you’re after a little local outing, Madison is one of America’s most bike-friendly cities, with lots of dedicated paths and trails in and around its center. Take some time after a day of studying to enjoy the coming warmth of spring and pedal around between some different spots. Use an interactive bike map of the city to plan your route.
Farmers' Markets
Load your bag and your kitchen shelves with fresh local produce, baked goods, and handicrafts. The Dane County Farmers' Market, every Saturday in Capitol Square, is the largest and most popular.
Brewery Tours
Wisconsin has a thriving craft beer scene, and many of the state’s breweries have tours and tastings. Check out popular breweries like Ale Asylum, Karben4, and Capital Brewery for a nice afternoon and a beer with classmates in the spring sunshine.
Stunning State Parks
Madison is surrounded by several beautiful state parks — Governor Dodge, Devil's Lake — where you can hike, picnic, and see some stunning views. Towards the state’s northern tip, Copper Falls State Park is an incredible spot to walk ancient lava flows and up impressive gorges.
