Madison

Madison sits on an isthmus between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona and serves as the capital of Wisconsin and the seat of Dane County. Three additional lakes form a chain in the region, shaping the layout of the city with waterfront parks and residential neighborhoods along their shores.

The territorial legislature chose Madison as the permanent capital in 1836 and named it after President James Madison, who had recently died. Construction of the State Capitol began later and went through several rebuilds, with the current domed building completed in the early 20th century.

On weekends, locals gather on Capitol Square for the largest producer-only farmers market in the country, where only direct growers and makers can sell. Students from the University of Wisconsin shape the atmosphere with cafés, bookstores, and a lively nightlife in the neighborhoods surrounding the campus.

An extensive network of bicycle paths connects residential neighborhoods, parks, and commercial districts across the metropolitan area and provides easy orientation. Downtown is compact enough to explore on foot, especially between the Capitol and the lakefront promenades.

The State Capitol stands at the exact center of downtown and features a granite dome topped with the gold-leafed figure of Wisconsin. Visitors can explore the interior and observation deck for free to experience the architecture and views over the chain of lakes.

Location: Dane County

Inception: 1836

Elevation above the sea: 287 m

Shares border with: Monona

Website: https://cityofmadison.com

GPS coordinates: 43.07472,-89.38417

Latest update: December 2, 2025 22:47