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Things They Don’t Tell You About Madison

This article is part of the Hipmunk #CityLove Project

Madison is one of the top tourist destinations in the United States. Visitors flock here for excellent restaurants, its University campus, college football, and spectacular natural attractions.

Madison has many high-profile activities and attractions, and the city sites are well-known throughout the country. From the famous State Capitol to magnificent waterfalls and limestone buffs, it’s not hard to see why so many love this city.

Though there are many things they don’t tell you about Madison, and she may surprise you with her abundance of off the beaten path attractions, and underrated locations.

These are the things they don’t tell you about Madison, Wis.

America’s Most Walkable City

Voted America’s most walkable city, the great thing about Madison is that wherever you reside, you’re always within walking distance of a main attraction.

The city also sports more than 250 parks, and an extensive network of scenic hiking and biking trails, which wind through beautiful forests, past powerful waterfalls, and around sparkling glacial lakes. It is an absolute paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Madison Arboretum. Photo CC by Richard Hurd

A short taxi drive from the airport (15 minutes from Dane County Regional Airport to downtown Madison) is the only drive you will need to take. Remember to pack great walking shoes so you can hit the streets.

Renting Bikes a Great Way to Explore the City

After you’ve explored the city on foot, why not rent a bike? Madison is a bike-friendly city, and renting a bike is a fantastic way to explore her many lakes, as well as miles of nature parks and trails.

Check if your hotel includes complimentary bike hire as part of your stay, as many hotels do. You can rent used bikes cheaply from Budget Bicycle Center at 930 Regent Street.

The State Capitol Shakes on Game Day

Madison goes crazy over college football, and the thriving University town transforms into a sea of red and white come game day.

Once August hits, every Saturday until December is celebrated with the same fervor of a religious holiday. Devout football fans take to the streets from as early as 7 a.m., sporting University of Wisconsin Badgers colors.

The energy from the streets surrounding the stadium is contagious, and spreads wildly throughout the city at large. The State Capitol literally shakes, and the atmosphere throughout the city is electric (Badgers win 9 times out of 10!).

Travel Over Winter for Cheap Hotel Deals

Most travelers hit Wisconsin during summer for water sports, beaches, stunning lakes, and miles of scenic hiking trails, although those willing to travel during winter will find the cheapest rates on Madison hotels.

There is also plenty to do during winter. From galleries, theaters, and winter sports like cross-country skiing and ice-skating, those who love winter sports are in for a treat.

Things They Don’t Tell You About Madison

Now that you’re equipped with the things they don’t tell you about Madison, you’re all set and ready to book travel to this amazing city!

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Meg Jerrard is an Australian Journalist who has been travelling and blogging around the world for the last 7 years to inspire others to embark on their own worldwide adventure!  Her husband Mike is an American travel photographer, and together they have made the world their home.

Follow their journey on FacebookGoogle+ and Twitter.

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