
Madison, WI: Where GSB Comes to Life
Home to the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the heart of state government, Madison offers a vibrant backdrop for your time at GSB. From lakeside trails to live performances, the city blends academic excellence with unforgettable experiences.
At a Glance
- Population: 280,000+
- Biking: 150+ miles of trails; Platinum Bicycle Friendly Community
- Lakes: 5 area lakes for boating, paddling, and scenic views
- Green Space: 270 parks spanning 6,000 acres
Things to Do
Whether you’re arriving early, staying for a weekend, or exploring after class, Madison offers something for every interest and pace:
Arts & Culture
- Wisconsin State Capitol
- Dane County’s Farmer’s Market
- Monona Terrace (designed by Frank Lloyd Wright)
- Overture Center for the Arts
- Chazen Museum of Art
- Madison Museum of Contemporary Art
- Wisconsin Veterans Museum
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Nature & Recreation
- Lake Mendota & Lake Monona (just steps from campus)
- Capital City Trail
- Henry Vilas Zoo (free admission)
- UW Arboretum
- James Madison & Brittingham Parks
- Bike rentals: BCycle & Budget Bicycle Center
- Boat rentals: Wingra Boats & Rutabaga Paddlesports
Places to Eat
From comfort food staples to creative local fare, Madison’s restaurant guide can point you toward something for every craving, including:
- The Old Fashioned (Wisconsin classics)
- Graze (farm-to-table, Capitol views)
- Marigold Kitchen (Bright, seasonal café)
- Dotty Dumpling’s Dowry (Iconic burgers)
- Ian’s Pizza (Creative slices, open late)
Explore More
For additional information on Madison attractions, visit:
Destination Madison, Isthmus, Visit UW-Madison, or Travel Wisconsin.
Destination Madison, Isthmus, Visit UW-Madison, or Travel Wisconsin.