While COVID-19 has limited the options for attending popular indoor and large-group venues in the Madison-area, many local restaurants, attractions, and popular spots have adjusted their operations to include more outdoor, physically-distanced experiences. Here are eight ways to explore Madison like a local amid COVID-19:
Exploring Madison During COVID
Do the Zoo
Go see over 800 animals at the Henry Vilas Zoo, an admission-free, community-supported zoo in Madison that’s open 365 days a year.
Watch a Sunset
Visit the iconic Wisconsin Memorial Union Terrace to relax by the lake. To limit crowding, they are requiring reservations, but no summer in Madison is complete without a night watching the sunset on the Terrace.
Hike the Trails
Hike the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum with over 1200 acres and 20 miles of hiking. It’s open in the winter too for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Relax Al Fresco
Relax at one of the many wineries or breweries around the city. Many of the establishments have set up outdoor tasting areas to enjoy the local brews.
Scale a Bluff
Devil’s Lake State Park is one of the most popular state parks in the state with 500-foot bluffs overlooking a 360-acre lake. It looks out of place for a typical Wisconsin landscape, but has plenty of hiking and paddling available for visitors. It is also the location of our yearly Residency Camping Trip.
Get out and Ride
Go biking on one of Madison’s 50 bike trails spanning over 500 miles. Madison is ranked as one of the most Bike Friendly cities in the country.
Enjoy the Harvest
Gather apples, pumpkins, and plenty of other fruits at one of the many Madison-area orchards, a favorite activity of Wisconsinites for the summer and fall.
Drive-in on Your Night-Out
Drive-in to watch a summer movie at the Madison Duck Pond. Located in the Madison Mallards Baseball stadium, you can see a variety of movies and concerts from the comfort of your car.