A Budget Weekend Getaway in Madison, Wisconsin

I grew up about an hour away from Madison, and one of the things I've always loved about the city is that it has all the things you'd like in a big city - great shopping, an arts and culture scene, etc. - but with a small college town atmosphere. Whenever I visit, these are some of my favorite places to go.

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Great Dane Brew Pub
There are three locations of this eatery around Madison, and all of them serve up tasty pub food (burgers, sandwiches, etc), along with their own brand of microbrews. Two of my faves are the Devil's Lake red lager and the Chocolate Cherry stout (a seasonal flavor).
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Olbrich Botanical Gardens & Topical Conservatory
Situated right in the middle of the city, this beautiful slice of floral heaven features sixteen acres of landscaped gardens to stroll. It's completely free to wander the outside areas, and only $1 if you want to enter the more tropical garden area inside the conservatory. This is a great way to spend a few hours - be sure to bring a c... More >
Situated right in the middle of the city, this beautiful slice of floral heaven features sixteen acres of landscaped gardens to stroll. It's completely free to wander the outside areas, and only $1 if you want to enter the more tropical garden area inside the conservatory. This is a great way to spend a few hours - be sure to bring a camera.
It's completely free to wander the outside areas, and only $1 if you want to enter the more tropical garden area inside the conservatory.
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Henry Vilas Zoo
Simply one of the best zoos I've ever visited and it's completely free to visit (though they do accept donations to help with upkeep). Exhibits have everything from alligators to polar bears, and if you're an animal lover like me, you can easily spend a whole afternoon here.
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Wisconsin State Capitol
Madison's state capitol building sits on a isthmus between two lakes and is absolutely gorgeous inside. Take one of the free daily tours and experience the great architecture of the building, along with the artistic murals that decorate the walls and ceilings.
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Madison Museum of Contemporary Art
This art museum houses some incredible exhibits and it's all free to view. Even the outside of the building looks like a work of art. It's located across the street from the capitol building.
Simply one of the best zoos I've ever visited and it's completely free to visit (though they do accept donations to help with upkeep).
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About the Author

Michelle Snow
Michelle Snow
travel/entertainment writer - photographer - designer - geekgirl - musicologist - browncoat - animal lover - disney fan - sci-fi/fantasy/horror fan - easily amused - social media junkie - and that only scratches the surface...
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