The terrace at the Memorial Union. This is arguably the most romantic public space in the Midwest. You buy a beer (a Spotted Cow, naturally) in a plastic cup. You sit in a famous "sunburst" chair. The sun sets over Lake Mendota at 8:30 PM, painting the sky in shades of tangerine and violet. A student band plays a jazz cover. You lean your head back. You are falling.
The city's identity is deeply tied to its connection with the outdoors and local community. Cyclist's Haven : Madison features miles of city bike paths and country roads, including the scenic Capital City Trail , which winds through local wetlands. Culinary & Local Goods : It is home to the largest producer-only farmers' market Falling for Madison
The coldest courtship. When the lakes freeze solid (usually by late December), Madisonians don't hide. They pull out ice boats. They set up fishing shanties. They walk to the center of Lake Monona and look up at the stars. Falling for Madison in winter means learning that darkness can be luminous, and that a warm bar with a fireplace (like the Old Fashioned) is the best place on earth. The terrace at the Memorial Union