
Visit Downtown Madison
Set on an isthmus between two scenic lakes, Madison's Central Business District encompasses the heart of downtown Madison, where the famed State Street pedestrian mall links the Capitol Square, seat of Wisconsin state government, to the University of Wisconsin campus.
The central downtown is home to more than 1,500 businesses - from shops, boutiques, and restaurants to financial, law and communications firms - plus museums and cultural destinations.
Stop at the Downtown Visitor Center year-round, for maps, directions and a friendly smile!
News
First EVER Downtown Group Gift Card Sale Announced
Fall Gift Card Program
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Announcing the Downtown Madison Fund
The purpose of this fund is to promote the vitality of downtown and leverage opportunities within and immediately adjacent to Madison’s Central Business Improvement District (BID).
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COVID 2020 Updates
Downtown Madison Information and Updates during the 2020 COVID-19 Pandemic.
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Handmade and Handcrafted 2019
When it comes to gift-giving, it pays to shop — and craft — local.
“…Shopping local directly supports your community,” says Kira Rosenstiel, manager of Art Gecko, 510 State Street.
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Your Holiday Traditions Start Downtown
Start your season of celebration in Downtown Madison, WI.
Holiday Lights, A Winter Night Market, A Holiday Open House and a Cookie Walk...
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More News
Use the Business Directory to get acquainted
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A place that celebrates the University of Wisconsin–Madison and its graduates, telling the stories of the UW alumni and the ways they’ve changed the world.
119 State
1-888-482-7700
www.wisconsincheesemart.com
Certificates accepted here
Shop online or in store for the world's largest selection of Wisconsin Cheeses since 1938. Great for gifts and souvenirs.
A public space and convention center designed by Frank Lloyd Wright hosting conferences, conventions, art installations, Frank Lloyd Wright history, and community events including yoga, meditation, dancing, and concerts. Open daily with a rooftop garden, public tours, gift shop, and the Lake Vista Cafe.
316 W Washington
100state’s mission is to create a community and home for problem solvers, creatives, and entrepreneurs. We are a cоwоrking community that provides a shared working space thаt iѕ equipped with desks, сhаirѕ, printing ѕtаtiоns, private offices, meeting rooms, and internet. Members of the community work independently, together. They belong to a community of like-minded people. A safe place to succeed and grow ideas. Nearing 300 members, 100state is Wisconsin’s largest coworking community and is dedicated to providing education resources, events, mentorship, and more to the Madison area business and arts communities.
508 State
7 Iron offers something Madison residents can’t find with cold Midwestern winters: year-round virtual golf!
1 N Webster
The modern design and earthy ambiance evoke a sense of nature and serenity that will surely sooth the traveler’s mind. Whether you’re enjoying the panoramic views of Madison from the rooftop pool or socializing over handcrafted cocktails in the bar, AC Hotel Madison Downtown is sure to offer you the essential hotel experience.
724 Langdon
A place that celebrates the University of Wisconsin–Madison and its graduates, telling the stories of the UW alumni and the ways they’ve changed the world.
22 S Carroll
A reflection of Madison's history and growth as a city, the only hotel on Madison’s Capitol Square, Best Western Premier Park Hotel is an icon of hospitality and a true symbol of downtown Madison.
1 S Butler
City of Madison operated parking lot. Metered.
30 W Mifflin
Our goal is to help people work to make a life– not just a living. We’ve designed Brix Coworking with an energizing and inspiring atmosphere in mind to further engage a growing community of like-minded, driven professionals. Working from home may once have been your dream, but set up shop with Brix Coworking, and you’ll soon see just what’s missing from making your business the best it can be.
214 W Gorham
City of Madison operated parking lot. Metered.
218 E Mifflin
City of Madison operated parking garage.
113 S Henry
Dane County operated parking garage.
750 University
Home to the second-largest collection of art in Wisconsin, with permanent collections, temporary exhibitions, education programs and events.
210 Martin Luther King Jr.
City of Madison Parks offices. Offering parks information, lake access, golf courses, events, shelter rentals, and more.
800 Langdon
The Wisconsin Union Club Suites welcome you to the heart of campus. Six elegantly appointed and updated rooms are available right in Memorial Union along with stunning views of Lake Mendota, the Memorial Union Terrace and iconic UW-Madison landmarks.
215 S Hamilton
Serves the legal information needs of county officers and employees, attorneys and the public.
22 E Mifflin
As Greater Madison’s official destination marketing organization, Destination Madison drives economic impact through tourism. We attract leisure visitors, conventions and sporting events to the area, and partner with local businesses to position Madison as one of the world’s most vibrant and innovative places to live, work and visit.
525 W Johnson
Situated on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, we are in walking distance of the vibrant shopping, dining and entertainment district, State Street, as well as other downtown attractions. Experience the legendary atmosphere by catching a game at Camp Randall Stadium or cheering on the Wisconsin Badgers at the Kohl Center.
100 W Mifflin
Open from May into October, the Downtown Madison Info Booth is located where State St. meets the Capitol Square. Offering visitor information, brochures, and answering questions regarding downtown shopping, dining, and entertainment.
452 State
The Visitor Center is currently closed, but you can search through our directory , attractions , and see how you can support downtown businesses by heading to our Updates Page
23 N Pinckney
We’re a local business, ready to make your next event the best it can be. Work done well, with a personal touch. That’s our commitment! The multi-use rooms have AV and dry erase boards to host your business retreat, trainings, and board meetings. With beautiful views of the Capitol and next to downtown restaurants, we can help you plan for ease!
120 E Wilson
Escape games are real-life, interactive experiences. They're challenging, entertaining and a great way to spend time with family and friends. Your group will have 60 minutes to work as a team to find clues, solve puzzles and crack codes in order to escape the room in time. Wit, creativity and a willingness to have fun are all you need!
314 N Frances
University of Wisconsin operated parking garage.
215 S Pinckney
City of Madison operated parking garage.
601 Langdon
Boutique hotel near State Street and the UW-Madison campus with two food & beverage outlets open to the public, including a rooftop lounge.
325 N Brooks
University of Wisconsin operated parking garage.
14 W Mifflin
Groove can host a variety of events at our space, including birthday parties (kids and adults), wedding related events (bachelorette parties, rehearsal dinners, post wedding breakfasts, pre-wedding day getting ready spot) anniversary parties, graduation parties, and corporate events.
600 N Park
University of Wisconsin operated parking garage.
9 E Wilson
Hotel and conference center, connected to Monona Terrace via skywalk.
7 N Pinckney
When you come work at Horizon Coworking, you'll enjoy…
5 Great Meeting Rooms seating 4 to 40 for members and non-members by appointment. All The Meeting accessories: large flat screens, projection, whiteboards, microphones. 2 phone booths and 2 printers, (even 2 couches we like backups). Internet via SupraNet Gigabit fiber - over ethernet & WiFi. Comfortable areas to work, relax, eat, and chat. Sitting and Standing work surfaces. Kitchenette & commuter shower… and nice people.
25 W Main
Situated on the Square — just steps from the Majestic Theatre and downtown’s top dining — this newly renovated space was created with your productivity in mind. Our thoughtfully-designed office offers best-in-class services and amenities and breathtaking views of Lake Monona.
301 N Lake
University of Wisconsin operated parking garage.
610 Langdon
A University of Wisconsin-Extension conference & banquet center and hotel.
Madison BCycle is a bikeshare program designed to revolutionize the way you move in Madison. There are over 45 stations with 300 bikes throughout downtown Madison all within close proximity to wherever you need to go.
100 N Hamilton
A welcoming, imaginative, joyful learning environment that nurtures children’s creativity and curiosity through hands-on exhibits, creative projects and special events.
1 W Dayton
Independently owned hotel offering guests a special Madison experience through our distinctive customer focus.
227 State
The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art is housed in a soaring building designed by world-renowned architect Cesar Pelli. MMoCA offers free exhibitions and education programs that engage visitors in modern and contemporary art. The museum’s four galleries host changing exhibitions that feature established and emerging artists. Special exhibition opening events, as well as artist lectures and gallery talks, independent and experimental film series, and drop-in tours enhance visitors’ experiences at the museum.
MMoCA’s programs for youth include Kids’ Art Adventures, ArtZone, and exhibition learning centers filled with free-choice discovery activities. During summer months, Art Cart and Art Cart EXTRA! bring creative art-making experiences inspired by MMoCA’s exhibitions to communities in Dane County. School programs include online teaching resources and guided tours supported by field trip reimbursements, and the award-winning Art on Tour, which brings exhibitions of art from MMoCA’s permanent collection to six schools in Dane County through a three-year program partnership.
MMoCA also hosts other vibrant events for the community at the museum, such as Hair Affair, Chroma and the MMoCA Art & Gift Fair. Plus, the museum’s major annual fundraiser Art Fair on the Square draws some 200,000 visitors to enjoy and purchase artworks from across Wisconsin and beyond at Madison’s Capitol Square, along with food and drink booths, and live music.
The Rooftop Sculpture Garden, adjacent to Fresco, a restaurant on the top floor of the building, provides an urban oasis with an incredible view of downtown Madison and beyond. The Sculpture Garden, as well as the museum’s striking lobby area, often serve as venues for weddings and other milestone events, as well as wine tastings, networking receptions, and other special events.
Visit MMoCA.org for a list of current exhibitions, upcoming events, and family activities.
The museum is open Tuesday through Thursday, noon–5 pm; Friday, noon–8pm; Saturday, 10 am–8 pm; Sunday, noon–5 pm; and is closed on Mondays.
201 W Mifflin
The recently renovated Central Library offers expanded facilities plus art exhibits, events, films and hands-on activities for all ages including a designated kids area.
330 W Mifflin
The Madison Senior Center continues its mission to promote successful aging. The center welcomes 40,000 visitors annually, and offers close to 3,000 events each year.
728 State
The principal research facility on the UW-Madison campus for the humanities and social sciences.
800 Langdon
A visit to Madison is not complete without a visit to Memorial Union, one of the community’s most beloved destinations. Located right on the shore of Lake Mendota, Memorial Union is home to almost daily events and activities as well as multiple on-site dining options to help meet the dining needs of everyone all in one place. Treasured by generations of community members and visitors, Memorial Union is a place to come to socialize, relax, study and be nourished.
1 John Nolen
A public space and convention center designed by Frank Lloyd Wright hosting conferences, conventions, art installations, Frank Lloyd Wright history, and community events including yoga, meditation, dancing, and concerts. Open daily with a rooftop garden, public tours, gift shop, and the Lake Vista Cafe.
1 John Nolen
Public access parking located at the Monona Terrace.
401 N Carroll
Mullins Apartments offers many different units spread out across the Madison area, most of them in the heart of the downtown and the University of Wisconsin campus area.
800 Langdon
Located on Memorial Union's lakefront, Outdoor UW is your outlet to the outdoors! Rent camping, climbing, hiking, and paddling equipment; balance your day with Terrace yoga or standup paddleboard yoga; or plan your family or group adventure with customized outings. Live your adventure on (and off) the Isthmus with Outdoor UW!
201 State
A performing arts center with ten resident organizations, presenting Broadway, music, theater, comedy, art exhibitions and educational and community events.
318 W Mifflin
City of Madison operated parking ramp.
702 Langdon
One of three University of Wisconsin-Extension Conference Centers.
14 W Mifflin
A classic steakhouse and seafood restaurant, featuring over 200 different wines. Lunch and dinner.
107 N Hamilton
Drop-in Craft Bar and creative workshop space located just off the Capitol Square. Choose from over 20 Pinterest-worthy crafts, order a drink, then spend time creating in our inspiring space! Full project list and Calendar of hours available via the website.
449 State
Roll Play is Madison's most awesome board game cafe! We aim to provide a comfortable and welcoming space for your board game enjoyment.
430 N Frances
City of Madison operated parking facility.
214 N Carroll
City of Madison operated parking garage.
100 W Dayton
City of Madison operated short-term parking stalls. Metered.
120 W Gorham
Quality Madison apartments for students, professionals and families with options for any individual or group: Studio apartments, Downtown Madison apartments, 2 bedroom, 3 bedroom, and up.
300 N Lake
University of Wisconsin operated parking garage.
10 E Doty
High quality urban development and property management. Offering downtown office, retail and luxury apartments from studio to two bedrooms.
800 Langdon
UW-Madison campus and community information and assistance inside the Memorial Union. Info Desks also available at Union South and the Wisconsin Institute for Discovery.
449 State
Our state of the art equipment will amaze your friends, and our multiplayer games will keep you coming back for more.
800 Langdon
Wheelhouse Studios is an open arts studio located in the lower level of Memorial Union. With three versatile work spaces, flexible studio designs, drop-in art opportunities, and classes for enthusiasts and first-time artists alike, it’s easy to engage in the arts at Wheelhouse.
Classes include drawing, painting, ceramics, glass art, jewelry, dance, cooking, music, print making and fabric arts, Wheelhouse Studios is your creativity outlet in the heart of campus.
650 N Lake
An independently financed, nonprofit alumni organization for UW-Madison alumni.
30 N Carroll
Explore four floors of exhibits highlighting Wisconsin's distinctive heritage and a variety of other American history topics. On Madison's Capitol Square.
816 State
Society headquarters, library and archives with materials about the history of Wisconsin, the United States and Canada, plus collections of the Wisconsin Center for Film and Theater Research.
2 E Main
Drop-in tours (45-55 min.) start at the Information Desk (inside the central rotunda). Mon.- Sat. at 9:00, 10:00, 11:00 a.m. and 1:00, 2:00, 3:00 p.m. Sundays at 1:00, 2:00, 3:00 p.m. A 4:00 p.m. tour is offered weekdays (Monday - Friday) Memorial Day through Labor Day. Reservations requested for groups of ten or more.
120 Martin Luther King Jr.
Serves the legal information needs of state officers and employees, attorneys and the public.
800 Langdon
The Wisconsin Union Campus Event Services Office team makes it easy to host your event at some beloved campus locations in Madison, including Memorial Union and Union South. From team meetings and private parties to regional conferences and spectacular weddings – this team has the rooms, food and experience to make your event feel effortless and memorable.
30 W Mifflin
Offering instructive exhibits highlighting important events in Wisconsin military history from the Civil War to the present.
Additional Visitor Resources
Downtown Ambassadors
Stop by the Downtown Visitor Center at 452 State St. or our seasonal Downtown Information Booth located at the top of State Street for information, directions and a welcoming smile.