Explore Madison: Quirky and Niche Tours Throughout the City

You’ve only got a couple of days to spend in Mad City and want to try all the beer and cheese you can handle. Fair point, but there’s so much more to this fun city. You can pack a lot into just two days, and there’s nothing wrong with eating and drinking your way to the next activity.

Here’s how you can spend a weekend in Madison, WI so you can say you’ve seen the unique and

extraordinary (and will hopefully come back for an extended stay).

For the Food & Drink Enthusiast

Madison’s food and beverage scene is worth savoring, and these tours make for a delicious deep dive.

• Madison Beer Trolley Tour: Madison has a thriving craft beer scene, and a beer trolley tour is one of the best ways to experience it. Hop from brewery to brewery, enjoy a signature drink (or two), and leave the driving to the pros.
• National Mustard Museum: Just outside Madison in Middleton, this quirky museum is home to over 6,000 mustards from around the world. With tastings and fun exhibits, it’s a must-visit for any foodie.
• Babcock Dairy Plan: Nothing says Wisconsin like cheese and ice cream. Take an observation deck tour of UW-Madison’s dairy plant, where students craft 21 varieties of cheese and 15 flavors of ice cream.

For the History & Culture Buff

Madison’s history is rich, and there are plenty of ways to experience it firsthand.

• Capitol Dome Tour: Climb up to the observation deck of Wisconsin’s stunning state capitol for breathtaking city views. Inside, take in the intricate murals and mosaics that make this building a must-see.
• Forest Products Laboratory: Home to the world’s largest collection of wood samples (over 103,000!), this UW-Madison research facility offers monthly tours that explore sustainability, innovation, and the science of wood.
• State Street: No trip to Madison is complete without a walk down this iconic stretch connecting the Capitol Square to the UW-Madison campus. Catch a show at the historic Orpheum Theater, browse rare finds at Anthology, and sample the best of Wisconsin’s dairy heritage at Wisconsin Cheese Mart.

For the Mystery & Adventure Seeker

If you’re drawn to the mysterious and offbeat, these experiences add a thrill to your time in Madison.

• Madison Ghost Walks: Stroll through the city’s most haunted spots, from eerie downtown legends to ghostly campus stories.
• Four Incredible Scavenger Hunts: Discover Madison’s hidden gems while solving clues, completing challenges, and exploring the city in a whole new way. A perfect mix of adventure and sightseeing!
• Downtown eBike Tour: Explore Madison’s best sights on two wheels with a guided eBike tour that blends adventure with local history.

Extend Your Stay & Explore More

With so much to see and do, why rush your trip? Extended stay hotels offer more space and comfort, with full kitchens, separate living areas, and pet-friendly options—perfect for making the most of your time in Madison.

For a home-away-from-home feel, The Saddlery Madison is a great choice. Relax, recharge, and settle into the city’s vibrant scene while enjoying the comforts of an extended stay.