Located in the southern part of the state and surrounded by large lakes, parks, and nature reserves, the city of Madison, WI, offers a plethora of local attractions that make it a great destination for a day trip or a weekend escape. If you are traveling around the region in your 2022 Mini Cooper Countryman and are looking for some nearby destinations to check out in the state capital, these are three places you should not miss.
1. Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Established in 1952 and welcoming thousands of visitors each year, Olbrich Botanical Gardens is one of the local landmarks you should definitely check out while exploring the Wisconsin state capital. Featuring a 10,000-square-foot conservatory and a 16-acre outdoor botanical garden, this place is a top-rated destination to spend some time away from the city center.
Located on the eastern shores of Lake Monona and a little over four miles northeast of downtown Madison, Olbrich Botanical Gardens can be reached in about 10 minutes by car along Johnson Street. Some of the areas you should not miss in this beautiful complex include the Thai pavilion, the rose garden, and the Bolz Conservatory. This place is open every day of the week between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm.
2. University of Wisconsin–Madison Arboretum
Another beautiful and expansive nature reserve located a little over one mile south of the Madison city center, the University of Wisconsin – Madison Arboretum is one of the best places to take a break from the routine and enjoy some time in nature without driving too far. Established in 1932, this nature reserve was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2019.
Covering an area of about 1,250 acres and featuring lush forests and prairies crisscrossed by a well-developed network of hiking and biking trails, this place sits right by the shores of Lake Wingra and is a popular recreational destination year-round. Opening hours are Monday through Friday between 9:30 am and 4:00 pm, and Saturdays and Sundays between 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm.
3. Wisconsin State Capitol
Constructed between 1906 and 1917, the Wisconsin State Capitol is one of the most famous landmarks in the city of Madison. A beautiful example of Beaux-Arts architecture, this place was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 and was renovated between 1998 and 2002. Guided tours are available for visitors and can be booked in advance by phone or online.
Are you looking for a trusted local dealership to buy a new or used car and go on new adventures all over Wisconsin and beyond? Visit us today at MINI of Madison! One of our team members will tell you all about our models and flexible financing plans.
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