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Day 1
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1-Day Madison Itinerary

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Wanderlog staff
Updated
• updatedAug 20, 2025

Madison in 1 day

If you only have 1 day to spend in Madison, we’ve narrowed down the top places you should check out to get the best experience of your time here.
Madison is a unique cultural and creative hub in the upper Midwest, with a thriving music, art, dining, and shopping scene. The dynamic capital city is home to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, which attracts visitors from around the world. With beautiful parks, bike paths, lakes and state forests within easy reach, Madison is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
With favorites like Mickies Dairy Bar, Marie's Soul Food, and RED, we’ll make sure you don’t miss out on all the must sees. We even included some of our favorite food spots around the area, like The Harvey House and Mickies Dairy Bar so you can get the best taste of Madison while you’re here. To see our full list of food recommendations, check out our best restaurants post. If you're traveling on a budget, you can check out our cheap eats post.
Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Madison?
  • 2-Day Madison Itinerary
  • 3-Day Madison Itinerary
  • 4-Day Madison Itinerary
  • 5-Day Madison Itinerary
Visiting Madison? See our Madison Trip Planner.
Feel free to follow our itinerary exactly or tailor it to your own needs — happy wandering!
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Table of contents
  • Madison in 1 day
  • 1-day itinerary

Day 1

1-day itinerary
With only 1 day to squeeze in as much activities as you can, we strategically grouped the must-sees, Henry Vilas Zoo and Vilas (Henry) Park with surrounding point of interests to make sure you don’t leave Madison without getting the most bang for your time. Combining the average time spent at each location and traveling time in between, it should fill up about 7 hours of your day.
1

Henry Vilas Zoo

4.7
(9958)
•
4.5
(1705)
Zoo
Zoos & Aquariums
Nestled in a picturesque setting, Henry Vilas Zoo is a family-friendly destination that offers free admission. With over 650 animals representing various species from around the globe, this zoo provides an opportunity to explore diverse habitats such as tropical rainforests and arctic landscapes. Visitors can marvel at Amur tigers, African lions, red pandas, and a myriad of exotic birds in the free-flight aviary. The zoo also features attractions like the Zoo Train and historic Conservation Carousel for added enjoyment.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Wonderful First Visit to Henry Vilas Zoo! This was my first time visiting the Henry Vilas Zoo, and I was genuinely impressed. The zoo is beautifully maintained, and admission is completely free, which makes it an amazing and accessible experience for everyone. I loved how family-friendly and walkable the layout is—perfect for a relaxed day out. The animal habitats were clean and thoughtfully designed, and I appreciated how much care and attention the staff clearly put into the animals’ well-being. Highlights for me included the big cats, primates, and the Arctic Passage area, which was so unique! There were plenty of spots to sit, rest, and enjoy the scenery, and I noticed several educational signs that added depth to the experience. Whether you’re with kids, friends, or just exploring solo like I did, this zoo is a lovely spot to visit. Definitely recommend if you’re in the Madison area. I’m already looking forward to coming back!
Hilda P — Google review
We go here all the time. Absolutely love it. We love going to the beach there too and the park near by. I like how we can feed the goats. All the different buildings you can walk through are nice The staff is always friendly. We ate at the café or grill there and it was very tasty. The playground there is nice. The carousel ride is nice but they make the parents pay to hold their kid on the seat. Same for the train ride. I just consider it my donation to the animals. But be prepared to bring $6 per ride and if you have multiple kids... it adds up. $3 per ride. Still worth going. We are so happy this zoo park exists.
Akaterine C — Google review
Great free little experience to bring the family or to just enjoy nature at its finest! I loved seeing all the amazing animals but what was really amazing was the variety! Ive been to many zoos and most don't have all the animals out but as we visited every animal was out and excited to see everyone. So if your looking for your next adventure or date I definitely recommend Henry Vilas Zoo!
Dawson E — Google review
Great little zoo, and it's free! It's a perfect size for families and a nice way to spend a couple of hours. We especially enjoyed the polar bears, red pandas and the carousel. Parking can be a bit tight.
Asiri B — Google review
The zoo was wonderful. What a great weekend visit place for families or solo. A wide variety including lions, tigers and bears. There are places to enjoy a snack or children to ride a train. This zoo is currently open to the public for free. Donations are appreciated to support the zoo.
CPCARS1 C — Google review
It was an excellent little zoo. It was clean and a good variety of animals. I've been to a number of zoos and this one has some animals I hadn't seen before. There is no entry fee and I was able to bring snacks for our family. It was pretty busy as we went the week before school started and the week after the college students moved in but still very nice.
Elisha M — Google review
It's been ten years since I've visited and there's been many updates. We absolutely enjoyed our visit. As always Henry Vilas has free entry but I encourage everyone to donate at least one dollar per group member in a donation box to help them keep the zoo free, spare more if you're able.
Scott H — Google review
Had a great time, they gave a good selection of exotic animals but half of them were not there when we went. The big ones too, so we didn’t get to see the orangutan, giraffe, lions, camel, and so many more which kind of ruined the experience for our family. But it’s free so can’t really complain except for the 3 hours of driving back and forth
John C — Google review
702 S Randall Ave, Madison, WI 53715, USA•https://www.henryvilaszoo.gov/•(608) 266-4732•Tips and more reviews for Henry Vilas Zoo
< 1 min · 0 ft
2

Vilas (Henry) Park

4.7
(5063)
•
4.6
(45)
Park
Zoos & Aquariums
Playgrounds
Zoos
Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Wingra, Vilas (Henry) Park is a delightful destination that offers a blend of natural beauty and family-friendly attractions. As one of Madison's oldest parks, it boasts a sandy beach, scenic trails, and an engaging playground perfect for children. The park’s crown jewel is the Henry Vilas Zoo, which welcomes visitors with no admission fee. This charming zoo features an impressive variety of animals including playful lemurs and even an orangutan family.
Fantastic free zoo. Parking is goofy and sometimes you gotta walk a bit. The animals are all in clean areas and the park itself is clean and easy to navigate. We were in a group of 8 with one in a mobility chair and he was able to see and do everything and the bathrooms were accommodating also. The polar grill had good food and the prices were cheap to fair for the serving and quality. I highly recommend this zoo.
Lucas W — Google review
Nice and calm. No lifeguard on duty but there is a swim beach. Bathrooms located here too. Right across the bridge from the zoo. Very convenient fishing docks and parking. Plenty of picnic tables and seating.
MtZ R — Google review
This is a wonderful zoo!! Has all the big animals in clear view! Great food at the Glacier View restaurant where you can enjoy watching the polar bear as you dine! Nice shady walking paths accommodating strollers, wheelchairs which they have for rent. Other drink, snack and food stations. We drove in from Illinois and was worth the trip!!!
Laura K — Google review
I absolutely loved the zoo. I didn't get to see all the exhibits, but the ones I did see were exciting. I hadn't seen some of their animals in person before, so I loved being able to observe them. Only thing is some of the animals are nocturnal so they were asleep 🤣. The zoo includes write-ups about the animals including their individual names and a few fun facts about them. Best part? Admission is free! It was kind of hard to find the exit, though so pay close attention to signs and landmarks.
Jae M — Google review
It's a FREE ENTRY zoo. Again: FREE. ZOO. If I lived in the neighborhood, I would bring my kid here every day to spend time with the animals. There is a playground that kept my toddler entertained for hours, and a carousel directly across from the playground (carousel requires tokens to ride, which can be purchased at a kiosk located beside it). The grounds were well kept and there were educational animal facts to be found in the play area. Very nice.
Raminess — Google review
Free!!!! what a wonderful thing , I wentvwith granddaughter and great grandson 2 and a half he loved the animals
Barbara B — Google review
Great zoo for being free including parking
Diana Z — Google review
Always 5 stars! Sadly the giraffe had been moved, so we didn't get to see them. But there were a lot of other animals to see. The riger was napping behind his favorite rock. The rhinoceros was moving trees (whole trees). The flamingos were very fun and colorful. The bats made my wife run from the aviary. The poison frogs were beyond adorable. There was a little green one that was about 1/4" long! So tiny! It was so "not busy", it was a blessing. The sand hill cranes were in the parking lot and I got to feed them mullberries from the tree, as they were otherwise waiting for the berries to fall so they could eat them. A wonderful time spent at a great place.
Beerar I — Google review
702 S Randall Ave, Madison, WI 53715, USA•http://www.cityofmadison.com/parks/find-a-park/park.cfm?id=1365•(608) 266-4711•Tips and more reviews for Vilas (Henry) Park
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1
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2
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0
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2
3 min · 0.86 mi
3

Camp Randall Stadium

4.7
(3515)
•
4.7
(430)
Stadium
Sights & Landmarks
Football Field
Arenas & Stadiums
Camp Randall Stadium is a historic sports arena located on the campus of the University of Wisconsin. It hosts the University's football games and other large events, offering an unforgettable experience for fervent fans. The stadium, built in 1917, has a charming old-time look and feel with recent renovations adding modern amenities. Visitors can also catch basketball games at the connected Kohl Center and witness lively traditions like distracting opposing teams during free throws.
It’s a unique experience- they close the streets off and so once you park it’s easy to walk to. Inside on the concourses is probably the most narrow walkways I’ve ever experienced- so if you get worried in crowds just expect that it’ll be really crowded at times. Seating is bench for the most part. It’s a cool place though!
MtZ R — Google review
My last game was 25yrs ago. So much has changed with this stadium for the good. The energy is very high at these games. Badgers played against TN and we won. They do sell alcohol now and you can bring it to your seat. Seating was normal metal bleachers, you can bring a small folding chair pad. Also bring a clear purse. Beers were $9
Wander W — Google review
On Wisconsin! Jump Around! Home of the University of Wisconsin Badgers! Camp Randall Stadium is a great place to watch NCAA football with great views no matter where you sit! Loud, rowdy and full of energy, the Wisconsin faithful bring it every Saturday! Come do the Jump Around and enjoy a football game at Camp Randall Stadium!
Sean Q — Google review
I came here to the convocation in 2025 after the spring semester. Yesterday was fully packed. I believe 15,000 students are graduating, and their relatives, friends, and family are attending the event. The sound system was the worst, and I couldn’t understand anything. The restrooms and parking are also horrible.
Dr. S — Google review
My daughter and I went to Camp Randall for the Coldplay concert July 2025, so my review is based on what this venue is like for a music event, NOT the concert itself nor any knowledge as to the venue for its general college sports/academia usage. - The seating is not going to be anything comparable to a music venue size seat (ie - auditorium/event centers). That said, we got completely squeezed out of our seats by a woman who refused to put her bag on the floor and off my daughter’s seat, and on the other side a very inebriated man. My daughter and I are more on the petite side, so we don’t take up much room but downfall is was also couldn’t really push back to keep our space. We ended up standing in the aisle after a bathroom break 1/2 of the show bc we simply could not get back in. Kinda sucked to pay for a ticket but we were still there and security was kind to us and let us stand in the aisle. On this note and looking back, we would’ve gone with floor seats/standing on the field as being a sold out show there was so much room on the floor you could run around if you wanted. - On that note, there was security but certainly not as “tight” as making other venues that are setup for making sure people are actually in their seats. Perhaps our issue was having “good” seats and people trying to cram into the lower level? Either way, we were on our own to figure it out. The security guard was VERY kind but the crowd was intense and getting us back in our seats was just not something feasible at that time. - It’s an old venue, so don’t expect nice and plentiful bathrooms when you’re a woman going to a concert where there may be in fact a higher majority woman in attendance. You will wait a very long time and the bathrooms on a hot summer day will be very moist and sticky. - Getting there and back was a bit of a hassle though many hotels do shuttle. Don’t expect to find close parking unless you come many hours early. - Audio was pretty good, the sound resounded nicely in the bowl. I’d be curious if higher up audio was still good. I have been to a concert at Lambeau Field too and have been pretty impressed with the way the music carries on these open air field venues when that crowded. - Concessions were very “meh” though perhaps they are different on game day. - Merch had many locations which was much better than some other venues. (Not sure of this is an artist thing or venue thing but thought I’d mention it.) - Overall, I probably wouldn’t go back to another concert at Camp Randall with a child under 14 unless it’s alcohol free or it’s another “once in a lifetime” type event. Even just in general I would reconsider for myself sans kids bc it’s truly not the greatest setup for this. Loved the experience, just isn’t on my “I’d come here again for sure” list.
Jill ( — Google review
Watching a Badgers football game in Madison is one of the best experiences you can have. It truly brings unforgettable excitement. Just keep in mind that the seats are quite narrow and can feel a bit uncomfortable.
Young L — Google review
Appreciated the ability to walk around a bit, tiny peak into the stadium. Enjoyed seeing the frat houses, such a great neighborhood. We were passing by on the interstate and decided to stop and see the town. On Wisconsin!
Peggy P — Google review
Enjoyed attending the Morgan Wallen concert. Parking in ramp 17 was a breeze. All the staff at the event were super awesome and courteous. What a beautiful city Madison is. Would definitely attend another event here in the future. Thank you!
Colin D — Google review
1440 Monroe St, Madison, WI 53711, USA•http://www.uwbadgers.com/sports/2015/08/21/GEN_2014010132.aspx•(608) 262-1866•Tips and more reviews for Camp Randall Stadium
3 min · 1.3 mi
4

Kohl Center

4.7
(2329)
•
4.4
(151)
Arena
Sights & Landmarks
Stadium
Arenas & Stadiums
Situated in the heart of bustling State Street in Downtown Madison, the Kohl Center is a modern sports facility that hosts Badgers collegiate basketball and hockey games. The venue is known for its vibrant sporting environment and long-standing crowd traditions during Badger sporting events. Additionally, it is home to the men's hockey team, while the women's hockey team plays in the connected LaBahn Arena. The center also offers behind-the-scenes tours for visitors to learn about its history.
The Kohl Center is awesome for hockey games! Seriously, the energy is electric when the Wisconsin team is playing. It's a great place to catch a game with friends. Plus, they have some really good food options, so you won't go hungry. The souvenir stores are stocked with cool stuff, too. It's definitely worth checking out if you're a fan... #Badgers
Kary B — Google review
Great venue to watch a basketball game. We were there for the 2025 WIAA high school boys basketball semi-final and finals games. The bathrooms were clean. Friendly and helpful staff. Easy in and out. The only problem was parking. Nothing was really close. We just Uber'ed to make it easier. The concession counters were easy to access. Everyone behind the counter was friendly and helpful.
Steve R — Google review
Amazing venue, lot of food and snack options along with very comfy seats to watch basketball games. I can tell that the center is maintained very well and follows cleanliness standards to the smallest detail. UW students are lucky to have this facility.
P76 — Google review
I visited the Kohl Center for my cousin’s graduation, and overall, it was a great experience. It’s a spacious and well-organized venue. I haven’t been here for a sports event yet, but for the graduation, everything went smoothly. The only downside was the sound, it was hard to hear clearly, though I’m not sure if that was due to the school’s setup or the center itself. Other than that, it’s a great place and a bonus, they sell ice cream!
Astrid A — Google review
Great venue for volleyball today. Doesn’t happen often but great sight lines, amenities, and seating. Not as loud and intimate as the Coliseum, but easier to park and closer food venues. Staff is helpful and friendly and entrance and exiting the Kohl Center is easy any time.
Andrew W — Google review
Bigger Stadium than expected. Never found the parking lot. But parked at the hotel i was staying at. The upperdecks look steep. But not far. The ticket ladies who check you to your seat will be checking to see if you belong in that seat before you can sit down. But, really friendly after confirmation. There's not much to eat , so get something beforehand. Located in the middle of the college.
Chris S — Google review
We attended an engineering graduation ceremony in 2025. The facilities were nice and compact, but we were bored with the events overall due to spending too much time there.
Dr. S — Google review
Amazing food! Best burger I’ve ever had. I got the signature burger with fries and side salad and it didn’t did not disappoint. Oddly enough the side salad was just as delicious as the burger and was the perfect paring to fries and a juicy burger. Burger was cooked and seasoned perfectly and the grilled onions and bacon elevated it while also adding incredible taste and texture. Cherry pie was also delicious with a beautiful crisp dough and tart filling. 11/10 recommend.
Kaisa L — Google review
601 W Dayton St, Madison, WI 53703, USA•http://www.uwbadgers.com/sports/2015/08/21/GEN_2014010135.aspx•Tips and more reviews for Kohl Center
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Where to eat

When you need a food break from visiting all the attractions today, these fan favorite restaurants are about a 5-minute walk away from Kohl Center.

The Harvey House

4.7
(850)
•
4.5
(49)
Restaurant
The Harvey House, a newly opened restaurant in Madison, offers a blend of creative cuisine and cocktails within an old-school, stylish redbrick interior. Helmed by spouses Shaina Robbins Papach and Joe Papach, who have experience from renowned establishments like the French Laundry and Gramercy Tavern, the restaurant boasts meticulous service and elegantly prepared dishes.
We celebrated our anniversary here and had an amazing experience! We arrived a little early for our reservation and enjoyed a drink at the bar before being seated for dinner. Our server, Jeremy, along with the entire staff, was absolutely fantastic. The cocktails and food were absolutely delicious. We’ll definitely be back and highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a great dining experience!
Nancy V — Google review
Went with several girlfriends on a Saturday evening. The food was delicious and the service was outstanding. I got the ice cold martini and almost cried tears of joy when the switched out my glass for a cold one halfway through the drink. The NY strip was so so good and my friends really enjoyed the walleye. I forget our servers name but he had recently moved to Madison from I believe Houston and did such a great job helping us have a wonderful evening! The only comment would be I wish we had more of the pretzel crackers on the relish tray- they were very tasty. I will be back for sure!
Katie R — Google review
Hidden excellence! Hey call me Old Fashioned, that's the name of a drink, the place offers a quaint atmosphere with a fantastically different menu. The Walleye was next level. The kielbasa in a blanket, truly Wisconsin! And that chocolate cake, as succulent as your first date!
Paul L — Google review
This was my second visit to The Harvey House and it is probably my favorite restaurant in Madison. The service has been so warm and personal both times I visited, and every dish I've tried here surpassed my expectations. A friend and I got the chicken schnitzel and the scallop, and both were phenomenal.
Caffeinated E — Google review
Came here for a work event they had a pre plan menu to choose from. And everything was just great. My water glass was never empty. We dined in the office part of the restaurant. The chopped salad was great. You didn’t even taste the blue cheese.
Kurt R — Google review
32 Years & Counting 💍❤️ 9•25•1993 ➜ 9•25•2025 To celebrate our 32nd wedding anniversary, we treated ourselves to a night at The Harvey House in Madison, WI — and it was nearly perfect. 🍸 Start: Hand-crafted drinks & an amazing deconstructed wedge salad 🍽️ Mains: Crispy chicken schnitzel & perfectly cooked walleye 🍫 Sweet Finish: Rich chocolate cake + a Penny Whistle nightcap Huge shout-out to our waiter Jake and his team for going above & beyond—even moving us to a cozy corner booth with a great view. ⭐️ Rating: 4.75 / 5 (Only wish the schnitzel sides were a little more generous—flavors were spot on!) A night of great food, beautiful ambiance, and unforgettable service—exactly how we wanted to celebrate. #AnniversaryDinner #MadisonWI #TheHarveyHouse #LoveInEverySeason #32YearsStrong #Aceautomitves #mraatotd #aatotd
Adrian F — Google review
Lively atmosphere, impeccable service, beautiful building, and a creative, elevated take on Wisconsin supper club dishes. Great place for date night, business dinner, or special occasion. Service couldn't have been friendlier from the moment we walked in. Walleye with spatzle and horseradish was the star for me. I admit to being somewhat skeptical of the $18 relish tray, (which is often included in the price of dinner at a traditional supper club), but it was huge and the presentation was stunning. Would definitely return. Free parking onsite. Reservations recommended.
Brandon W — Google review
I don’t use “amazing” very often in my food/restaurant reviews. But this place was “amazing.” Inspired by Wisconsin supper clubs, the food was unique but traditional. The drinks were outstanding. The service impeccable and the building historic.
Rob L — Google review
644 W Washington Ave, Madison, WI 53703, USA•https://www.theharveyhouse.com/•(608) 250-9578•Tips and more reviews for The Harvey House

Mickies Dairy Bar

4.7
(1868)
•
4.5
(309)
$$$$cheap
Breakfast restaurant
Mickies Dairy Bar is a beloved local spot near Camp Randall, serving up generous portions of classic American breakfast and lunch dishes. The diner has retained its 1950s decor and original menu, creating a nostalgic atmosphere for diners. Despite long lines, the hearty helpings of food like banana pecan pancakes and colossal cinnamon rolls make the wait worthwhile.
Awesome local place for a hearty breakfast. The pancakes are huge and the “scramble” was awesome: eggs, cheese, potatos, and your choice of meat. Cash only, but service was fast, frequent and friendly. BTW, the fried potatoes are called “yanks.” Never heard that term before, but if your food is this good for a fair price, you get to call it whatever you want.
Marc H — Google review
Notorious classic, greasy spoon diner across Camp Randall Stadium. Always busy, always friendly and the food is always good. The fried pork chop plate is delicious and is wonderfully seasoned. The pancakes are thick and wholesome. A destination eatery when visiting Madison. Cash only.
Michael W — Google review
Stopped by on a Thursday morning for breakfast. Very classic 50s diner atmosphere. It felt like home even thought it was my first visit. The food portions are huge and fair on price. Highly recommend!!!
Daniel K — Google review
Me and my husband stopped here for the first time. He got the corn beef scrambler and I got the blueberry pancakes. The portions are amazing, the food superb. The sitting was unique and I can say we will be coming back. Our server was knowledgeable and gave recommendations, which helped us decide. We absolutely will be returning
Angel M — Google review
Its reputation precedes it. Got a scramble, which was wonderfully huge (yanks = potatoes, btw). Service was nice and fast -- almost too fast. Couldn't finish the toast with the scramble at first, but waitstaff came by with the check -- although I wasn't there anywhere close to an hour, they do have a warning not to spend more than an hour there written somewhere. So, headed out to get out of the way (somewhat subconsciously) and within minutes wished I had eaten the rest of the toast. Oh well. Definitely worth a visit when in Madison.
Dnrothx — Google review
Always amazing...but this time...there was NO line! We got nearby street parking and that was also a plus. As there was no line, and we were waiting for the rest of our party to arrive the waiter started a conversation with us and we were able to share how much we appreciate their hard work and dedication to create the magic that happens on a weekend morning at Mickies Dairy Bar;)
J P — Google review
Love this place! We had pancakes, French toasts, a scrambler and an sweet potato fries. Staff is super friendly. Portions are huge. Is cash only but they have an atm on site.
Joaquín E — Google review
I cannot RAVE more about what a fantastic place this is. Food - excellent. Atmosphere - Excellent. Service - some of the best I've had in year; kind, cheerful, polite, professional. You know a place is good when 15 minutes before opening, the street is lined with elderly men waiting in their cars for it to open.
Bette J — Google review
1511 Monroe St, Madison, WI 53711, USA•http://www.mickiesdairybar.com/•(608) 256-9476•Tips and more reviews for Mickies Dairy Bar
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Marie's Soul Food

4.7
(413)
$$$$cheap
Restaurant
Marie's Soul Food is a cozy restaurant on Monroe Street that specializes in Southern favorites like collard greens, slow-cooked ribs, and crispy fried chicken. While it's primarily a takeout spot, the delicious food is worth savoring on the go. The menu features mouthwatering options such as catfish and waffles, mac and cheese, collard greens, and sweet potatoes.
I was visiting from out of state and had to give this place a try because of the awesome reviews and let me tell you— I am so glad I did! The staff were really sweet and recommended the fried chicken and fried catfish- I’ve never had fried catfish so that’s what I went with. The catfish was delicious! Very crispy!! I also ordered the Mac n Cheese and collard greens— overall the food was AMAZING! So flavorful and it all went so well together, there were no leftovers. When in Madison stop by Marie’s Soul Food!!!
Monica R — Google review
First Time at Marie’s Soul Food – Worth the Trip from Illinois! I visited Madison from Illinois and decided to try Marie’s Soul Food for the first time. I ordered the pork chop meal with collard greens, mac & cheese, and yams, and every bite was pure comfort. The pork chop was tender, well-seasoned, and cooked perfectly. The collard greens had just the right amount of seasoning and a nice kick of flavor. The mac & cheese was creamy, cheesy, and exactly what I was hoping for. And the yams? Sweet, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. The portions were generous, the prices were fair, and the service was warm and friendly. You can tell the food here is made with love. Definitely a must-try when in Madison. I’ll be back!
Venita N — Google review
Best food we’ve had in a long time💯 My girlfriend ordered fried chicken, macaroni, greens and candy yams. I ordered baked chicken with rice and gravy. Everything taste homemade and delicious. Reminds me of my grandmother’s cooking. Atmosphere is very welcoming and customer service is wonderful. We’ll definitely be back🤞🏾
Tony L — Google review
I had been going back and forwards over the last month about placing an order as I’ve heard no talk about this place, just happen to scroll across it on Google. Well today I did it, and I wish I was able to talk to the chef and explain how pleased I am with this food. THIS IS GOOD!!!! OMG, I definitely have found me a new co to food spot! Go girl or boy! Whom ever cultivated such great food 🤤yum
Tamisha T — Google review
Service was absolutely amazing, lady was quick to help us and extremely welcoming. Was told our food would take 30 minutes and got it in 15 for 3 people. Some of the best soul food I've had in this state, chicken was unbelievably tender and flavorful and the Mac and cheese was creamy and well seasoned. Would recommend to everyone I could get to listen to me and I will absolutely be coming back.
Kayden S — Google review
The food was flavorful & delicious. I had the the catfish, greens, mac & cheese. My plate taste like my grandmother, who is from the south, was in the back cooking the food. Next time Im in town, Im definitely stopping by. I cant forget to mention that the owners are very cool & down to earth too!
T T — Google review
I didn’t go directly into the restaurant, but I did order from Uber eats arrived on time. Reviews were good and I thought everything would be great. Turns out everything was practically terrible. The fried pork chop and chicken was still red and Undercooked and soggy Not even crispy! I paid $.79 for ranch packets that were offbrand and tasted like literal mayonnaise! Dispite that all the Food literally did not have no flavor or seasoning! . The only thing worth having was the collard greens. Mac and cheese was like shiny and slimey didn’t seem baked at all tasted like it can from the microwave just not good potatoes salad was ok! 2/10 only because the only thing Edible was the greens! Worst soul food I ever had in my 29 years of life traveling all over the entire US and abroad! corn bread was definitely from a box as well no flavor and DRY like a Popeyes biscuit. If this is what soul food is in Wisconsin I feel so bad for yall! Never will try any sort of soul food in this state again! Literally worst ever experience
Samual S — Google review
The only restaurant in Madison I could never get tired of. My favorite meal is the 2 piece catfish with greens and mac and cheese as my sides. The catfish is fried perfectly, the greens are very flavorful with a slight kick. The ribs are also one of my favorites. They’re so tender they literally fall off the bone when you bite them. No matter what I order I’m never disappointed. The atmosphere is chill and welcoming. Customer service is always remarkable.
Shanica C — Google review
1637 Monroe St, Madison, WI 53711, USA•https://mariessf.com/•(608) 405-5729•Tips and more reviews for Marie's Soul Food

RED

4.7
(2050)
•
4.5
(280)
$$$$expensive
Sushi restaurant
Nestled just a stone's throw from the Capitol, RED is a chic dining destination that beautifully marries modern aesthetics with innovative Japanese cuisine. This stylish eatery invites couples and friends alike to indulge in an array of creative sushi rolls and grilled dishes within its sleek, contemporary setting. The atmosphere is relaxed yet upscale, perfect for intimate conversations over delightful bites.
This place probably serves the best sushi rolls in the area. The service was excellent, and the ambiance was fantastic. The drinks were impressive as well; the Old Fashioned was especially good, and the Irish Coffee was enjoyable too. The grilled oysters were spectacular, and all the sushi rolls were delightful. The rice was a bit too sticky during this visit, but that seemed to be a one-time issue. Overall, we had a lovely dining experience and highly recommend it!
Sue L — Google review
Went for a birthday celebration after spotting their sushi class a few months ago and finally decided to visit. The menu is all apps and sushi (both raw and cooked).The short rib dumplings were packed with flavor, and the Super Volcano roll was a hit. Easy online booking, super friendly staff, and they even surprised us with complimentary lychee sorbet. Great first-time experience!
Sumaya H — Google review
We are obsessed with this place. The food is stellar every time. The cocktails are a treat. The staff and service are phenomenal. Love sitting in the bar area; their new expansion is also beautiful! The recent menu updates are drool-worthy. Madison is lucky to have Red!
Mariana — Google review
Absolutely amazing. The sushi is so fresh and the flavors are unique and delicious. I’ve come here a hand full of times for special occasions and it never fails to impress! The cocktails are also phenomenal. We love!! Highly recommend.
Lexi B — Google review
Loved our dinner at RED. We had the sushi and sashimi set dinners with the chef’s recommendations. Beautifully presented and absolutely delicious. Very good, attentive and friendly service throughout. We had our baby son in a stroller next to our table on the outdoor section and that wasn’t an issue at all.
Derek P — Google review
Maddie was incredible- knowledgeable & sweet! Lovely options of rolls - sushi & sashimi. Beautiful restaurant - inside & out! Sadly no green tea or red bean ice cream to complement a wonderful meal — maybe next time 😉 thank you!
Ann S — Google review
Love the sushi here. One of the best in Madison. Rolls pictured here are not as neat as they usually are but still taste great!
Melissa S — Google review
Spendy, but really good food. Have been here many times over the years and always enjoyed good cocktails and service, with some interesting rolls rotating. Enjoyed the Peruvian Coast and Tsunami at our last visit. Good for special occasions or a more upscale dinner. Also have some fun appetizers like short rib dumplings that were awesome.
Kate M — Google review
316 W Washington Ave #100, Madison, WI 53703, USA•http://www.red-madison.com/•(608) 294-1234•Tips and more reviews for RED
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What's the weather like in Madison?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Madison for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

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Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Madison?

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Day itineraries for nearby cities

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