Summary of Day Trips from Madison
Madison serves as the capital of Wisconsin, located between lakes Mendota and Monona.
Established in 1829, it became the capital in 1848. Madison is well-regarded for its extensive park systems and lakes, boasting hundreds of miles of nature trails, diverse dining options, as well as numerous museums and art galleries.
Thanks to its dynamic cultural scene, Madison is considered one of the most quintessential cities in the United States. Additionally, the city is encircled by excellent destinations suitable for day trips.
For those in Madison seeking fresh scenery beyond the capital city, here is a comprehensive list of the premier day trips from Madison:
1. Wisconsin Dells
Wisconsin Dells is located just over an hour’s drive from Madison.
The area derives its name from the scenic Dells of the Wisconsin River.
Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of sandstone formations at Witch’s Gulch.
Together with the village of Lake Delton, Wisconsin Dells forms a renowned tourist attraction.
In the 19th century, the initial wave of tourists arrived, solidifying the site’s enduring appeal.
Downtown Wisconsin Dells features the H.H. Bennett Museum and Historic Studio, while the northern area boasts the Dells of the Wisconsin River state natural area.
The city essentially functions as an amusement park, with the primary excitement concentrated in its acclaimed water parks, making time spent here exceptionally enjoyable.
2. Chippewa Falls
Chippewa Falls was incorporated as a city in 1869 and is situated in Northwest Wisconsin along the Chippewa River.
The term Chippewa originates from the Ojibwa language, reflecting the heritage of the Native American Ojibwa people.
Visitors to Chippewa Falls can immerse themselves in the city’s charming history while exploring the pristine outdoors.
This city is recognized as the birthplace of Seymour Cray, renowned as the father of the supercomputer.
The ideal time to visit Chippewa Falls is during the Christmas season when local residents passionately celebrate their holiday traditions.
Each year, on the day after Thanksgiving, the city transforms into a captivating winter wonderland.
Stunning light displays illuminate the Christmas Village in Irvine Park, featuring luminous angels.
3. Spring Green
The village of Spring Green is located approximately one hour west of Madison.
This small village is notable for housing two famous Wisconsin landmarks that appeal to architecture enthusiasts: Taliesin and House on the Rock.
The Taliesin estate spans 800 acres and was constructed in honor of Frank Lloyd Wright.
The House on the Rock is a unique venue filled with eclectic attractions.
Other notable destinations during a day trip to Spring Green include the American Players Theater, renowned for its Shakespearean productions, as well as the art galleries and the general store.
4. Baraboo
Baraboo is the largest city within Sauk County, situated along the Baraboo River.
This city is known as the winter residence of the Ringling Brothers Circus.
For those with an interest in magic, the Circus World Museum is a must-visit, particularly during the summer when daily parades feature performances by clowns, magicians, and acrobats.
This museum preserves the history and legacy of the Ringling Brothers circus and stands as the only clown-focused museum globally.
Another significant landmark in Baraboo is the AI Ringling Theatre.
Additionally, nestled within the Baraboo Range is the Devil’s Lake State Park, located just 35 minutes away.
5. Devil’s Lake State Park
This park is recognized as one of Wisconsin’s largest and most frequented public parks, encompassing 3,730 hectares.
Located about 35 miles northwest of Madison, the park is famous for its towering bluffs reaching 500 feet and striking pink quartzite cliffs adjacent to the lake.
A primary draw of the park is Devil’s Lake, a glacially-formed closed drainage lake situated about two miles south of Baraboo.
This rectangular lake spans an area of 150 hectares.
Within the park, the Baraboo Hills are believed to be significantly older than the lake itself.
In 1974, the southern section of the Hills was designated a National Natural Landmark.
With its breathtaking landscapes and proximity to Wisconsin Dells, the park is a favored destination for tourists.
If a day among nature away from the hustle of the state capital is sought, this park stands unparalleled.
6. Mineral Point
Mineral Point is a charming city located in southwestern Wisconsin.
This area was first settled in 1827, eventually becoming a significant center for zinc and lead mining in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Architectural structures in Mineral Point can be traced back to the 1840s, lending the city its unique allure.
The presence of numerous caves and badger holes adds to the historical narrative of this quaint town.
The inviting atmosphere of Mineral Point’s architecture renders it a recommended destination for day trips from Madison.
7. Madison Museum of Contemporary Art
This art museum, established in 1901, was previously referred to as the Madison Art Center.
It plays a crucial role in the artistic and entertainment landscape of Madison, opening its permanent venue to the public in 2006.
The extensive collection comprises over 5,000 objects sourced globally, including works from renowned artists.
A notable example is “Pitahayas,” an oil-on-metal creation by Frida Kahlo.
While visiting, patrons can enjoy the impressive 7,100 square foot rooftop sculpture garden as well as a media gallery showcasing diverse prints, drawings, and photographs.
8. Sun Prairie
Sun Prairie, a suburb of Madison located in Dane County, is the second most populated city in the county.
For those seeking a tranquil day trip, Sun Prairie presents an ideal retreat.
Approximately thirty minutes away, several community parks provide serene options for relaxation and are well-suited for picnics, including Sheehan, Angel, Woodview, and Wetmore parks.
9. Pendarvis State Historic Site
This historic site, located in Iowa County, comprises several cabins dating back to the 19th century.
These structures were constructed by immigrants drawn to the area for lead mining in Mineral Point.
Restoration efforts have returned the buildings to their original condition.
Pendarvis serves as a museum dedicated to preserving the history of early lead mining; it is overseen by the Wisconsin Historical Society.
A visit to Pendarvis offers a glimpse into the lives of miners from that era.
10. Mount Horeb
Mount Horeb is a village located approximately thirty minutes west of Madison in Dane County.
The village’s early settlers were primarily Norwegian, resulting in a rich Scandinavian heritage.
Main street is adorned with life-sized trolls, intricately carved from tree trunks.
Referred to as the “Troll Capital of the World,” Mount Horeb features various antique shops, gift shops, and specialty boutiques in its downtown area.
Noteworthy attractions for those visiting Mount Horeb include the Cave of the Mounds, Onyx Ridge, and Blue Mound State Park.
11. Beaver Creek Nature Reserve
For those eager to explore and learn about nature, the 400-acre Beaver Creek Reserve offers an abundance of sights to discover.
This idyllic natural setting features a butterfly house, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to connect with nature.
A nighttime visit grants guests access to views from The Hobbs Observatory.
12. Monroe
Monroe is a city that caters to cheese enthusiasts, situated between the Town of Monroe to the north and the Town of Clarno to the south.
Rich in cheese-making heritage, Monroe has thrived for over a century due to this craft.
It is famous as Wisconsin’s cheese capital, hosting one of the last remaining Limburger cheese factories.
A visit to the Historic Cheesemaking Center offers insight into Wisconsin’s renowned cheese industry.
13. Monona Terrace
Monona Terrace is a convention center situated on the shores of Lake Monona.
It is also known as the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center.
Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1938, the construction of the building was not completed until 1997, nearly six decades later.
The construction was carried out by J.H. Findorff and Son Inc., a contractor based in southern Wisconsin.
Architecture enthusiasts should make a point to visit this striking structure, located along Madison’s waterfront.
The rooftop terrace offers sweeping views of downtown Madison, the State Capitol, and Lake Monona.
14. New Glarus
This village in Green County, situated at the junction of Wisconsin Highways 39 and 69, was founded in 1845 and formally incorporated in 1901. The earliest settlers were Swiss immigrants in the mid-1800s.
New Glarus offers a delightful escape from Madison, celebrated for its distinctly Swiss charm.
The village fully embraces its Swiss heritage in all aspects, encompassing culture, history, and cuisine.
New Glarus hosts “Spotted Cow,” one of Wisconsin’s most acclaimed craft beers.
Beer aficionados should prioritize New Glarus when planning day trips from Madison.
Additional highlights include the Swiss Historical Village, an open-air museum enriching the experience.
15. Olbrich Botanical Gardens
The expansive 16-acre Olbrich Botanical Gardens is named after its founder, Michael Olbrich, who established the gardens in 1952. Administered by the non-profit Olbrich Botanical Society and the City of Madison Parks, these gardens provide stunning views of the natural environments and exotic flora.
The addition of the glass-enclosed Bolz Conservatory in 1991 further enhances the gardens, featuring aromatic flowers, orchids, a waterfall, and various birds.
Also notable is the elaborate Thai pavilion, known as the “sala,” opened in 2002, which was a gift from the government of Thailand to the University of Wisconsin on behalf of King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
This pavilion is one of only four outside of Thailand.
