A Strong, Close Community

Overview DiversityUW-MadisonThe City of Madison

Discover One of the World’s Most Livable Cities

Madison is an outstanding place to work, live, and study. It offers an urban setting with a friendly neighborhood atmosphere. The more than 220,000 people who live within Madison’s borders and the more than 540,000 who live in the metro area, enjoy the amenities of a bustling city, with the warmth and relaxed atmosphere of a much smaller town.

Built on an isthmus between lakes Monona and Mendota, Wisconsin’s vibrant capital city is renowned for its beauty. A total of five area lakes and more than 200 parks provide year-round outdoor activities.

Madison offers an amazing array of options: farmers’ markets, cultural festivals of all kinds, local races and triathlons, exercise trails, ethnic restaurants in every flavor imaginable, Big Ten sports and dozens of family-friendly special events. Excellent public transportation makes it easy to get around, and students receive free bus passes—making it even easier.

Downtown Madison adjoins campus and is one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in the country, packed with more than 200 unique stores and more than 100 restaurants and bars. The epicenter of Downtown Madison is its famous State Street, which connects campus and the State Capitol. It’s a pedestrian-friendly corridor filled with street musicians, food carts, pre- and post-game sports fans, and scores of interesting shopping and dining options.

When it comes to cultural offerings, Madison offers something for everyone. Each week brings dozens of music, drama, and fine arts events. A major draw is the Overture Center for the Arts; a stunning center for the visual and performing arts located only a few blocks from campus. Touring Broadway musicals, nationally known musicians of all kinds, and local arts organizations all perform there.

On campus, the Union Theater and the Kohl Center (home to Badger basketball and hockey) also draw nationally known speakers and entertainers. The campus arts scene is filled with everything from the Chazen Museum of Art to the Wisconsin Film Festival.

Urban culture, natural beauty, bustling economy, and small town charm — Madison offers it all. Your only problem? Finding enough time to explore all the city has to offer