The summer solstice is here marking the start to another magical season to visit Madison, Wisconsin. If you’re wondering what there is to do in the capital city this summer, the real question should be: “What isn’t there to do in Madison this summer?”
But in case you wanted some ideas, we’ve put our heads together and created this to-do list for you to partake in under the Wisconsin sun. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime local looking to soak up every moment, our summer guide is here to help you make the most of the season. From festivals and food trucks to paddleboarding and patio dining, here's your go-to list for unforgettable summer days in Madison:
Festivals & Fairs
Madison comes alive in the summer with a vibrant lineup of festivals and fairs that celebrate everything from music and art to food and culture. Whether you're trying local bites at Taste of the Madison or enjoying funnel cake at the Dane County Fair, Madison’s festivals are a joyful reflection of the city’s creative, inclusive spirit. For a deeper dive into Madison’s summer festivals and fairs repertoire, visit our blog.
Farmers’ Markets
This probably goes without saying, but Madison's vibrant farmers' markets are a cornerstone of the city's summer culture, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to connect with local producers and enjoy the freshest seasonal offerings.
Dane County Farmers' Market: As the largest producer-only farmers' market in the U.S., the Dane County Farmers' Market is a must-visit. Held every Saturday from April 12 to November 8, 2025, from 6:15 a.m. to 1:45 p.m., the market encircles the Wisconsin State Capitol, creating a lively atmosphere filled with over 130 vendors offering everything from fresh produce and meats to cheeses and baked goods. On July 12, 2025, the market will temporarily relocate to Breese Stevens Field due to the Art Fair on the Square . Additionally, a Wednesday market takes place from April 23 to November 5, 2025, on the 200 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., operating from 8:30 a.m. to 1:45 p.m.
Other Notable Markets:
Eastside Farmers' Market: Located at McPike Park (202 S. Ingersoll St.), this market operates every Tuesday from April 29 to October 28, 2025, between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., offering a diverse selection of local goods in a community-focused setting.
Westside Community Market: Situated at 505 S. Rosa Rd. in University Research Park, this market runs on Saturdays from April 12 to November 2, 2025, from 7:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., featuring a variety of vendors and products.
Hilldale Farmers' Market: Operating behind L.L. Bean at Hilldale Shopping Center (726 N. Midvale Blvd.), this market is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from May 3 to October 29, 2025, between 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., providing a convenient shopping experience for locals.
Monroe Street Farmers' Market: Held at Edgewood High School (2219 Monroe St.), this market welcomes visitors every Sunday from May through October, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., offering a range of local produce and artisanal products.
Northside Farmers' Market: Located at Northside Town Center (2901 N. Sherman Ave.), this market operates on Sundays from May through October, between 8:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., serving the north Madison community with fresh, local offerings.
Outdoor Dining
The city's outdoor dining scene thrives during the summer months, offering a delightful array of options that combine delicious cuisine with scenic views. At the heart of this experience is the Memorial Union Terrace, a beloved lakeside spot on the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus. Here, visitors can relax in iconic sunburst chairs, savoring a variety of food and drink options while enjoying live music and picturesque sunsets over Lake Mendota.
Beyond the Terrace, Madison boasts numerous patios and outdoor eateries that cater to diverse tastes. From the vibrant energy of State Street to serene lakeside settings, the city offers ample opportunities to dine al fresco . Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a gourmet meal, Madison's outdoor dining venues provide the perfect backdrop for summer gatherings and culinary adventures.
Hiking & Biking
Madison offers a wealth of outdoor opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts, with trails that cater to all skill levels and interests. Whether you're seeking serene nature walks, challenging mountain biking routes, or scenic urban rides, the city has something to offer.
Hiking Trails
UW–Madison Arboretum: Spanning over 17 miles, the Arboretum features diverse ecosystems, including prairies, woodlands, and wetlands, providing a peaceful retreat for hikers. UW Arboretum
Cherokee Marsh: Located on Madison's north side, this area offers approximately 3.2 miles of trails through marshland, ideal for birdwatching and enjoying the outdoors.
Pheasant Branch Conservancy: Just north of Madison, this conservancy boasts a 3.5-mile loop trail with scenic views and a spring-fed creek.
Picnic Point: A popular destination for both hiking and biking, Picnic Point extends into Lake Mendota, offering beautiful lake views and a tranquil environment.
Biking Trails
Capital City State Trail: This 17-mile paved trail connects Madison to Fitchburg, passing through the scenic Capital Springs State Recreation Area.
Badger State Trail: Stretching 40 miles from the Illinois border to Madison, this trail is popular for its historic tunnel and connections to other regional trails.
Quarry Ridge: Located just outside Madison, Quarry Ridge offers over three miles of off-road mountain biking trails, suitable for various skill levels.
Lower Yahara River Trail: This nearly 2.5-mile trail features the longest inland boardwalk bridge in North America, connecting Madison to McFarland.
With over 200 miles of trails in and around the city, Madison is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're hiking through lush forests or cycling along picturesque lakes, the city's diverse trail systems offer endless opportunities for adventure.
Picnic
The summer season in Madison is perfect for picnicking, with its abundance of parks and picturesque lakeshores. Among the city's many green spaces, Picnic Point stands out as a favorite destination. This nearly mile-long peninsula extends into Lake Mendota, offering panoramic views of the water and the city skyline. Accessible via a scenic trail through the Lakeshore Nature Preserve, Picnic Point provides several designated fire circles and open areas ideal for spreading out a blanket and enjoying a meal amidst nature.
Other notable picnic spots include Vilas Park, which features a beach, playgrounds, and proximity to the Henry Vilas Zoo; James Madison Park, offering open lawns and lake access near downtown; and the Wisconsin State Capitol Lawn, where you can enjoy your picnic surrounded by historic architecture. Whether you're seeking a tranquil lakeside retreat or a lively urban setting, Madison's diverse parks provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable picnic experience.
Paddle
Madison’s lakes are the heartbeat of summer activity, offering countless ways to enjoy the water. Paddle sports are especially popular, with locals and visitors alike heading out on kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and even pedal boats to explore the city from a new perspective. Rentals are easy to find at spots like Brittingham Boats, Wingra Boats, and Marshall Boats, which provide equipment and beginner-friendly instruction. Whether you’re gliding through the calm waters of Lake Wingra or catching a sunset on Lake Mendota, paddling offers a peaceful and invigorating way to connect with nature. For those looking for more action, sailing and windsurfing are also available, and the lakes are perfect for swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing along the shore. With five lakes surrounding the city, there’s always a way to get out and enjoy the water in Madison.
Family Fun
Wisconsin’s capital city is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities, especially during the summer months. At the heart of this is the Madison Children's Museum, a dynamic space where play and learning go hand in hand. The museum offers a variety of engaging programs, such as "Let’s Move! with Abby," which includes obstacle courses and group games, and "Cabin Life: Cabin Games," where children can create historic toys and games, experiencing play from the 1840s . These events are free with general admission, making it an accessible option for families.
Beyond the museum, Madison's Henry Vilas Zoo provides an opportunity to explore wildlife without an admission fee. The zoo features a variety of exhibits, including the Arctic Passage, which houses polar bears and seals.
Sporting Events
Madison's summer sports scene is vibrant and diverse, offering fans a range of exciting games and events. At the heart of this excitement is Forward Madison FC, the city's professional soccer team competing in USL League One. Known for their passionate fanbase and lively matches at Breese Stevens Field, the Flamingos provide an electrifying atmosphere that combines competitive play with community spirit.
Baseball enthusiasts can enjoy a game with the Madison Mallards, a collegiate summer baseball team playing at Warner Park. The Mallards are celebrated for their family-friendly environment, entertaining promotions, and the famous "Duck Blind" seating area, which offers all-you-can-eat-and-drink packages.
Adding to the city's dynamic sports offerings is the Madison Night Mares, a women's collegiate summer softball team also based at Warner Park. The Night Mares have quickly become a fan favorite, known for their high-energy games, themed nights, and commitment to empowering women in sports .
Listen to the Music
Madison’s summer is alive with music, offering a diverse array of live performances that cater to all tastes. From lakeside concerts to citywide festivals, the city provides numerous opportunities to enjoy music in vibrant settings.
One of the season's highlights is Concerts on the Square, a cherished tradition where the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra performs free outdoor concerts on the Capitol lawn every Wednesday evening from late June through July. Attendees often bring picnic blankets and baskets to enjoy the music under the stars.
For a panoramic view of Lake Monona, the Monona Terrace offers free Concerts on the Rooftop, showcasing genres like bluegrass, pop, rock, and reggae. These events provide a unique experience of live music against the backdrop of the city skyline.
Make Music Madison transforms the city into a musical playground on June 21, with performances popping up in parks, porches, and public spaces. This free, citywide event celebrates music in all its forms, inviting everyone to participate.
Walk Through A Garden
Madison, Wisconsin, offers a variety of beautiful gardens that provide serene escapes and vibrant displays of flora. Here are some notable gardens to explore:
Olbrich Botanical Gardens: Located on Madison's east side, Olbrich Botanical Gardens spans 16 acres and features 14 outdoor gardens, including the Rose Garden, Herb Garden, Meadow Garden, and Serenity Garden. A standout attraction is the Royal Thai Pavilion and Garden, a gift from the Thai government, which is one of only four such pavilions outside Thailand. The Bolz Conservatory, a 50-foot-high glass pyramid, houses a tropical environment with exotic plants, a waterfall, and free-flying birds.
Allen Centennial Garden: Situated on the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus, this 2.5-acre garden surrounds the historic Agricultural Dean's House. It serves as a living laboratory for students and features a variety of themed gardens, including English, French, and Italian styles, as well as rock and perennial gardens.
University of Wisconsin–Madison Arboretum: Covering 1,260 acres, the Arboretum is a hub for ecological restoration and research. It boasts diverse plant communities, including prairies, savannas, wetlands, and forests. Notable areas include the Curtis Prairie, the world's oldest restored prairie, and the Longenecker Horticultural Gardens, which contain over 2,500 species of trees and shrubs.
From sunrise strolls along the lakeshore to sunset concerts on the Square, summer in Madison offers countless ways to relax, explore, and connect. Whether you're here for a weekend or the whole season, we hope this guide helps you experience the best of what our city has to offer. So grab your sunglasses, your sense of adventure, and get ready to make some unforgettable summer memories in Madison, Wisconsin.
Need a place to stay? Book a room with us in the heart of downtown.
For more Madison summertime adventure ideas, visit the Isthmus event calendar.