25 Ways to Make the Most of Your Trip to Madison for AU Pro Volleyball
The second stretch of the Athletes Unlimited Pro Volleyball Championship runs from October 23 to November 2 in Madison, Wisconsin — the city where the 2025 champion will be crowned. You’ll get the chance to see the likes of Olympians Justine Wong-Orantes, Jordan Thompson, Micha Hancock, and more in “Mad City”. Whether you’re traveling from across the state or across the country, our host city is ready to deliver not just great volleyball, but unforgettable experiences off the court.
Between matches, you can make the most of your trip by exploring Madison’s scenic trails, local food scene, and exciting day-trip adventures.
Here’s your guide to memorable stops in and around the city with 25 things to do in Madison, WI.
Free & Scenic Activities | Where to Eat | Day Trips & Excursions
Free & Scenic Activities
1. Stroll State Street
This iconic pedestrian mall runs from the State Capitol to Bascom Hill on the UW–Madison campus, lined with bars, coffee shops, boutiques, and street performers. It’s the perfect way to soak in Madison’s college-town energy before or after a match.
2. Explore the Capitol Square
The Wisconsin State Capitol’s grand dome is surrounded by cafes, shops, and restaurants. On Saturdays, the Dane County Farmers’ Market wraps around the entire square — the country’s largest producers-only market. Don’t miss Stella’s Hot & Spicy Cheese Bread, but arrive early to skip the long lines.
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3. Walk Out to Picnic Point
Part of the Lakeshore Nature Preserve, this nearly one-mile peninsula extends into Lake Mendota, offering panoramic skyline views. The ~2-mile round trip from the preserve entrance is especially magical during sunset.
4. Bike the Lake Monona Loop
A scenic ~13-mile loop around Lake Monona, this route features smooth bike paths, lakeside neighborhoods, and a postcard-worthy Capitol view along John Nolen Drive. Bike rentals are easy to find if you’re traveling light.
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5. Catch a Concert at Memorial Union Terrace
One of Madison’s favorite gathering spots, the Terrace offers live music and outdoor events from spring through fall. Pull up one of the iconic sunburst chairs, grab a scoop of ice cream or a local brew, and watch the sun set over Lake Mendota.
6. Visit the UW–Madison Arboretum
Spanning more than 1,200 acres, the Arboretum is home to gardens, prairies, and woodlands. It’s an easy, peaceful escape within city limits — stunning in both fall colors and spring blooms.
7. Stroll Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Sixteen acres of free outdoor gardens await here, highlighted by the ornate Thai Pavilion. The indoor Bolz Conservatory (small admission fee) features tropical plants and butterflies year-round.
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8. Henry Vilas Zoo
One of the nation’s few free-admission zoos, Henry Vilas is family-friendly and home to many animals from polar bears to big cats. It sits right next to Vilas Park, making it an easy double stop.
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Where to Eat Like a Local
9. State Street Brats
A campus tradition serving up Wisconsin-style brats, burgers, and cheese curds in a lively sports bar atmosphere. Try the Red Brat, a locally made smoked pork-and-beef bratwurst that’s been a Madison favorite for decades.
10. The Nitty Gritty
Known as Madison’s “Birthday Bar,” it’s a lively spot popular with students, alumni, and locals.
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11. Dottie’s Dumpling Dowry
Classic burgers and milkshakes in a quieter space just off the main drag.
12. Lucille
Deep-dish pizza and craft cocktails in a stylish setting steps from the Capitol.
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13. Eno Vino
Upscale rooftop dining with unmatched views of the Capitol dome — perfect for a celebratory night out.
14. Camp Trippalindee
A rooftop bar with retro summer camp décor, known for its top-tier Wisconsin Old Fashioneds.
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15. The Old Fashioned
Widely proclaimed to have some of the best cheese curds in the state, along with hearty Wisconsin comfort food.
16. Mickie’s Dairy Bar
A Madison breakfast institution since the 1950s. Expect massive portions, great milkshakes, and a cash-only policy.
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Day Trips & Excursions
17. Devil’s Lake State Park (1 hr)
Famous for its 500-foot quartzite bluffs and crystal-clear lake, Devil’s Lake offers hiking trails with incredible views, swimming beaches, and picnic spots.
18. Lambeau Field, Green Bay (2.5 hrs)
Home to the Green Bay Packers, Lambeau offers stadium tours, a Hall of Fame museum, and the chance to step onto one of the NFL’s most storied fields.
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19. American Family Field, Milwaukee (1.25 hrs)
Catch a game if the Brewers are playing October baseball or take a behind-the-scenes tour of this retractable-roof ballpark — a great option if you’re a sports fan.
20. Door County (3 hrs)
A perfect weekend getaway if you’re extending your trip. Expect charming waterfront towns, lighthouses, cherry orchards, and some of the best fall foliage in the country.
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21. New Glarus Brewery (25 min)
Visit the home of Spotted Cow — only sold in Wisconsin — and enjoy guided tours and tastings in a scenic countryside setting.
22. Mount Horeb – Troll Capital of the World (40 min)
Walk the “Trollway” lined with whimsical wooden troll statues, explore antique shops, and enjoy the small-town charm.
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23. Baraboo & Circus World Museum (1 hr)
Combine a visit to Devil’s Lake with a stop in Baraboo to experience circus history through exhibits, costumes, and live performances.
24. Wisconsin Dells & Mirror Lake State Park (1 hr)
Beyond the waterparks, explore the peaceful trails of Mirror Lake State Park and cap the day with dinner at the lakeside Ishnala Supper Club.
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25. Blue Mound State Park (1 hr)
The highest point in southern Wisconsin, Blue Mound offers two observation towers with sweeping views — especially beautiful in the fall.
The 2025 AU Pro Volleyball Championship will feature 44 of the world’s top volleyball players in an exclusive, high-stakes tournament to determine the ultimate champion of the sport. These elite athletes, handpicked from the best domestic and international pro leagues, will face off in the nation’s premier volleyball hubs in Omaha, Nebraska, at the Liberty First Credit Union Arena (October 1-15) and in Madison, Wisconsin, at the Alliant Energy Center (October 22 – November 3). Series ticket deposits for both locations are now available here.
