Madison is the capital city of Wisconsin, and it is a vibrant city with an interesting history and cultural sights. Founded in 1836 and named after James Madison, the fourth President of the United States, the city was strategically chosen for its location on an isthmus between Lakes Mendota and Monona. Over the years, Madison has grown from a small settlement into a bustling city with a pivotal role in the political life of Wisconsin. The city’s rich history is evident in its well-preserved buildings and landmarks you can explore today.

The most iconic building in Madison is the landmark Wisconsin State Capitol. It was completed in 1917 and stands as a majestic monumental structure in the Madison skyline with a dome inspired by the U.S. Capitol. It is also the tallest building in Madison. The Capitol’s interior is adorned with beautiful murals, marble from around the world, and a stunning rotunda. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the building’s history and architecture while enjoying panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.

Another architectural gem is the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center, designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Although Wright first proposed the design in 1938, the building was not completed until 1997. The Monona Terrace seamlessly blends Wright’s visionary design with modern functionality, offering stunning views of Lake Monona and the city skyline. It hosts a variety of events and is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts as a great work of the famous architect.

You can also make an interesting walking tour in the Mansion Hill Historic District, where you will find some of Madison’s oldest and most elegant homes. This area showcases different architectural styles, including Italianate, Queen Anne, and Classical Revival. Close by the district you can continue your stroll at the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus along Lake Mendota, home to several notable buildings. The Memorial Union Terrace overlooking the lake is a meeting place for students and others alike.

There are some museums in Madison as well. The Chazen Museum of Art is a great choice. It boasts an impressive collection of works from various periods and cultures, housed in a modern building at the university campus. If you are interested in more arts, you can visit Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. Nearby, you have the opportunity to visit the Wisconsin Veterans Museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate telling the story of Wisconsin veterans in shaping the history of the United States. You can also explore the history of Wisconsin at the Wisconsin Historical Museum, located on the Capitol Square. The museum offers exhibits of Native American heritage, the Civil War period and much more.

History is also present to the southeast of the Capitol building. This is the neighborhood called First Settlement District, a name it got as the first residential district in Madison, established in 1837. The first inhabited building was built by the Peck family to board builders of the first capitol building. Today you find shops and restaurants, and you can take a walk along Lake Monona along Capital City Trail. The centerpiece is Monona Terrace with panoramic views to both the lake and the Wisconsin State Capitol.