Isthmus/Downtown

Madison's downtown is located on an isthmus between two beautiful lakes, and anchored by the Wisconsin State Capitol and the University of Wisconsin campus. This area offers a wide variety of housing options with a distinct midwestern vibe, from high-end condos to eclectic student apartments there’s a place for everyone. Downtown living offers easy access to entertainment, the lakes, Madison Metro and great bike trails. Hundreds of retail, restaurant and service businesses within walking distance make this the perfect place to call home.

Where To Eat: Heritage Tavern, Chef Dan Fox is somewhat of a local legend with his numerous James Beard awards as well as Chef of the Year accolades! Known for its upscale farm-to-table cuisine and some of the friendliest staff in town! Fun Fact: Heritage Farms supplies the meat in addition to other local suppliers. Around the corner is Naples15, owner Salvatore Di Scala brings Naples to Madison with authentic southern Italian offerings and mouthwatering pizzas! Fun Fact: The piano in his dining room is a gift from Tony Bennett! Late night belongs to Nattspil, serving up delicious cravings until 1am! Get the Three Cup Chicken or Tofu and thank us later!

Where To Sleep: AC Hotel Madison offers lovely modern rooms boasting views of the Capitol or Lake Mendota! It could literally be a staycation in of itself with the beautiful Eno Vino restaurant boasting one of the best views of the Capitol for dinner! Also, stop by and see Craig in the lobby bar for his famous J. Henry & Sons Smoked Old Fashioned or Manhattan! Fun Fact: They are also pet friendly now, so bring your furry family too! The Edgewater is another awesome downtown choice right on the water with an amazing spa! The Edgewater Spa offers massages, facials, manicure/pedicures all with a soothing view of Lake Mendota! Check out The Boathouse Bar & Grill for casual food and delicious cocktails on the dock!

What To Do: Terrace at Memorial Union is the best spot to grab a pitcher of Spotted Cow and enjoy views of Lake Mendota and people watch! Tons of live performances and activities from yoga to paddle boarding, even paddle board yoga! Capitol Square hosts live music to one the most famous farmer's markets in the nation! Dane County Farmer's Market runs on Saturdays until early November. Concerts on the Square are hosted by the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra on Wednesday evenings until early August.

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