Hi I’m Mali and I just wrapped up my junior year at UW-Madison majoring in Political Science and Communication Arts. I grew up near Madison and spent all of last summer living with my roommates in an apartment near campus. Madison is an incredible place to spend the summer. The weather is not too hot (most of the time) and there are so many public places to explore to support both your physical and mental health. Make the most of this gorgeous weather before fall and winter temperatures sneak up on us once again. Here’s what I recommend you put on your summer bucket list.
Events on the Capitol Square
The Dane County Farmers Market is perfect for the #ActiveBadger lifestyle. Fresh produce, fresh air, supporting local businesses, and walking around the beautiful capitol square, what more could you ask for? The Farmers Market is every Saturday morning from April 16 – November 12.
Concerts on the Square are also back on Wednesday nights at 7pm from June 29 – August 3. Lay out a blanket, pack a snack or two, and enjoy some live music and fresh air.
Lakeshore Path
Looking to take a scenic walk, run, or bike around Lake Mendota? Lakeshore Path is a well-preserved path that takes you from the Memorial Union around University Bay. It provides shade which is great for hot and sunny days in Madison. It is also pet friendly if your furry friend is on a leash.
Picnic Point
At the Southern point of Lake Mendota is Picnic Point. This mile long stretch of land is a great spot to hang with friends and swim in the lake as well as look at the beautiful skyline of Madison. Another great perk of this spot is that the #80 bus has a stop right next to it on University Bay Drive which makes getting from the Southeast side of campus over to Picnic Point and back a breeze.
UW-Madison Arboretum
The UW- Madison Arboretum is on the near-west side of Madison, and partially shares a border with Lake Wingra. There are three gardens, and natural areas, all with 17 miles of trails running through it! The Arboretum has tons of opportunities to learn more about the species within it and about Wisconsin nature in general. Be sure to check out the visitor etiquette before going to preserve this beautiful area as best as we can!
Memorial Union
The best way to end a summer night in Madison is to grab some Babcock ice cream or Strata pizza and watch the sunset over Lake Mendota at the Memorial Union Terrace. The Terrace chairs, grass patches, and UW Goodspeed Family Pier provide great places to sit to watch the sun set over the sail boats in the lake and enjoy time with family and friends. There are also lifeguards on duty at the pier and rentals for paddle boards and other water activities to participate in.
There are so many ways to get outside and appreciate the beautiful weather in Madison this summer, so check out something new while the weather lasts!