Uncover Something New
Browse by Area
Looking for just-the-right neighborhood? No matter your interests, you’re sure to find it here. Madison Metro is chock full of passionate, community minded people from all walks of life, and from all over the globe. We are business owners, advocates, activists, students, artists, scientists, athletes, inventors. You get the picture. Let our interactive map introduce you to the areas and neighborhoods that make Madison special.
Click the areas above to discover (or rediscover)
some of our favorite things about the Madison area.
Browse by Lifestyle
Open on location, but craving a certain lifestyle? Shop “lifestyle” below.
Active
We suspect that Madison’s southern neighbor, , may just have the most health and fitness establishments per capita. Fitchburg takes cycling seriously as well. Whether you’re looking for a single track trail system or a group of cyclists to hit the road or trails with, Fitchburg has you covered. (Check out “Bike Fitchburg” for more info or to connect with other cyclists).
That said, Madison continues to rank high in terms health and fitness, most recently receiving recognition as #4 in "America's Fittest Cities". Getting physical is easy in Madison, from cross country skiing, to canoeing, cycling, skating, rowing, kayaking, snow shoeing, kiteboarding, hiking, running, sailing... the list goes on! If you’re passionate about fitness, we're happy to point you in the right direction.
Nature Lover
: The Middleton Hills, Northlake & Orchard Heights neighborhoods back up to the beautiful and serene Pheasant Branch Conservancy in Middleton. Walk or bike to the conservancy from the Community of Bishops Bay. You’ll find the Owen Conservation Park in the heart of Madison’s west side, bordered by the Parkwood, Faircrest and Crestwood neighborhoods.
: residents enjoy quick and easy access to Lake Mendota, Picnic Point and the Lakeshore Nature Preserve.
: Baycreek, Nakoma and the Arboretum Neighborhoods are lucky enough to have the University of Wisconsin Arboretum in their backyard.
: The Aldo Leopold Nature Center and Edna Taylor Conservation Park in Monona offer hiking trails, and you’ll find several beachside parks along the shores of Lake Monona.
: Warner Park, Cherokee Marsh’s north and south units, Lake Mendota and Governor Nelson State Park are a few northside gems not to be missed.
History Buff
Do you daydream about owning a piece of Madison history? Would you jump at the opportunity to live in a historically significant pocket of Madison? With so many historic buildings and sites, it's hard to name just a few, but if you’re a history buff with a strong desire to connect with Madison’s past, we’d love to tell you more.
Leaning West? The side is teeming with historic nitches, but the list doesn’t stop here! A few to get you started are , . Looking for mid century or Frank Lloyd Wright inspired homes? We’d love to share with you the many pockets of Madison and Middleton that are bursting with MCM architecture.
and spots include the , which boasts Mansion Hill, The First Settlement District, Marquette Bungalows Historic District, The Historic Third Lake Ridge and the .
Urbanite
If accessing bars, restaurants, boutiques, coffee houses, museums, music venues and theaters by foot is high on your list of priorities, look no further.
The Side's Regent Street, Monroe Street and University Avenue offer up a plethora of hotspots as well. Adjacent neighborhoods include University Heights, Shorewood Hills, Dudgeon Monroe, Sunset Village, Vilas & Westlawn.
The includes downtown (the Capitol Neighborhoods) and Near East neighborhoods such as the Marquette (AKA Willy Street), Atwood and Tenney-Lapham neighborhoods. The Isthmus is where you will find the widest and largest selection of urban amenities. If you’re looking for a funky, eclectic vibe though, the Near East neighborhoods are where it’s at.
North Madison
You’ll love the abundance of nature in North Madison. Thousands of acres of conservancy, wetlands, parks and of course, the shores of Lake Mendota. Waunakee offers several local boutiques charming enough to make you think you’re in Door County with it's unbeatable small town vibes. Scroll down to learn more about neighborhoods on the north side.
Westport
Hugging the northern shores of Lake Mendota, Westport boasts several hiking trails, parks & natural wonderlands. Here’ you’ll find the Yahara Heights County Park (including a dog park), Mendota County Park (with a campground) & one of my favorites, Governor Nelson State Park. Cherokee Marsh is quite close & Pheasant Branch Conservancy isn’t far. Soak in the small town feel while being within a stone’s throw of Middleton, Waunakee & Madison. Westport boasts a handful of locally owned bars & restaurants, both on and off the water, making it a great place to catch live music in the summer.
North Madison
The Northside quietly beckons nature lovers with thousands of acres of conservancy, wetlands, parks & trails thanks to the beautiful Cherokee Marsh & Warner Park, not to mention access to Lake Mendota & the Yahara River. Cross country skiing, biking, snowshoeing, birding, paddling, fishing; it’s all here.
The north side’s community & business offerings continue to expand & revitalize with the newer Willy St Coop, Ale Asylum, FEED Kitchen, Warner Park Community Center, renovated Mallards Stadium. A new public pool is being discussed and the Isthmus Montessori Academy is set to open it’s doors just off of Packers Ave within the next year or two as well. (IMA would change from a private, tuition-based school to a public, tuition-free one in the fall of 2018.)
Town of Burke,
Windsor & DeForest
Nestled between the Cherokee Marsh, Token Creek & Upper Yahara River, plentiful outdoor opportunities such as hiking, birding, cross country skiing & paddling await.
The Yahara River Trail System in DeForest, once complete will loop through the village, providing approximately 18 miles of trails while connecting Token Creek to Cherokee Marsh.
Town of Burke, Windsor & DeForest boast hundreds of acres of parkland, conservancy space & community gardens. Just northeast of Lake Mendota, Madison is just minutes away.
Town of Vienna
At a population of around 1600 people, the Town of Vienna is perfect for those craving a small town but appreciate urban amenities within reach, as numerous locally owned boutiques, restaurants, bars, coffee shops are all within 10 minutes (see Waunakee & DeForest)
Waunakee
This charming community is buzzing with life as the architecturally interesting downtown Waunakee offers several locally owned shops, each one bursting at the seams with beautifully curated collections including local wares not to mention a wine bar, wellness center, breweries & restaurants.
With fantastic parks & gorgeous conservation areas nearby, it’s easy to see why so many people flock to Waunakee.
Springfield Corners
On the outskirts of Middleton, Waunakee & Cross Plains, this rural community is within a stone’s throw of the beautiful & historic Indian Lake County Park. Hike or cross country ski the winding trails to soak in breathtaking views or hit one of the popular road bike routes that pass through.
West
From high end boutiques, nationally known shopping & dining, internationally recognized research & technology parks, west Madison is the place to be. Middleton boasts “The Good Neighbor Community” with it's charming downtown. And, the rolling hills, breathtaking vistas, the Town of Cross Plains & Vermont are spectacular.
Middleton
It’s easy to see why Middleton, the “Good Neighbor City”, has been recognized by Money magazine as #7 of "The 100 Best Places to Live" in the U.S. Middleton is bursting at the seams with old charm & modern amenities for every age group. Nearly 25% of the land within the city limits is open space, composed of 22 parks & 25 conservancy areas covering 1,100 acres.
Far West
The far west side boasts countless local & nationally known shopping, dining & entertainment options while exciting new developments continue to draw people in.
The largest development is the second University Research Park campus which is currently underway. The URP is an internationally recognized research & technology park. URP West builds upon University Research Park’s strong tradition of success in attracting global investment in the fields of engineering & computational & life sciences.
The oldest homes in the area were built in the ‘70’s, but most were built between 1990 & the early 2000’s
Town of Cross Plains
On the eastern edge of Wisconsin’s famous Driftless Area, the town of Cross Plains boasts gorgeous bluffs & valleys for as far as the eye can see. It’s hard to believe that downtown Madison is within a half hour drive.
Challenging climbs & stunning views makes this area a favorite among cyclists.
Town of Middleton
“Where country meets the city..” You’ll find several beautiful neighborhoods within the Town of Middleton. Whether you’re looking for a newer neighborhood with neighbors near or older, unique homes with large wooded lots, you’ll find it here.
The Town of Middleton currently owns & maintains over 22 miles of paths for cyclists & pedestrians. Town roads are heavily used for bicyclists for recreation & commuting. You’ll find hundreds of acres of park & conservancy space in the Town of Middleton.
Town of Vermont
Amongst the rolling hills & quiet country roads you’ll find gems like the beautiful Blue Mounds State Park & Tyrol Basin Ski & Snowboard Area within minutes. Madison is within a 30 minute drive.
West Madison
The west side boasts a wide array of housing. From spacious colonials, to sprawling ranches, mid century flair, Cape Cods & downright unique & funky homes like “The Hobbit House” in Sunset Village, you’ll find just about anything here.
The bustling Hilldale Shopping Center offers mid-high end shopping, Sundance Theater, a large locally owned grocer plus several local & national restaurants. Down the street you’ll find Sequoya Commons, an award winning development focusing on Independent retailers plus many other urban amenities.
South
Active, neighborly, Fitchburg. Check out all that this great city has to offer. Pleasant Springs has a both a rural and lakefront cottage feel.
McFarland
The Village of McFarland is perfect for those seeking a tight knit, small town vibe. Nature lovers will enjoy being along the shore of Lake Waubesa & minutes from Lake Kegonsa & Kegonsa State Park. Downtown Madison is less than 20 minutes away. Cyclists are sure to appreciate the rural country routes.
Fitchburg
Fitchburg is a forward thinking city with a strong focus on community, active living & strategic growth. Fitchburg offers up an impressive spread of fantastic parks, cycling & mountain bike paths, conservancies & green spaces as well as many local & nationally owned businesses.
Many wonderful events keep residents entertained year round, including movies & concerts in the park plus festivals throughout the year.
Home to over a dozen fitness centers including some very niche & specialized businesses (many of which are locally owned) Fitchburg is clearly a community that values healthy living.
Oregon
The Village of Oregon prides itself on its hometown ambiance & small town hospitality. Oregon offers a small but vibrant cluster of shops, dining & drink options while Madison is within a 10 minute drive. With new bike paths running through town & plenty of country routes at your fingertips, cycling is a snap.
Pleasant Springs
Named after numerous natural springs found in the area by the early settlers, residents enjoy miles of Lake Kegonsa shoreline, the Yahara River & Lake Kegonsa State Park. You’ll find sprawling farms & rural homesteads to cottage-like living & spectacular lakefront homes. Many of these country roads are frequented by cyclists.
Rutland & Stoughton
Rich in Norwegian heritage, Stoughton draws people from near & far for it’s annual Syttende Mai Festival. Stoughton is known for it’s community arts, historic downtown, gorgeous Victorian & historic homes, Stoughton Opera House, Stoughton Village Players, natural food co-op, Lake Kegonsa & Yahara River which runs right through town.
This charming community is buzzing with life as the architecturally interesting downtown Waunakee offers several locally owned shops, each one bursting at the seams with beautifully curated collections including local wares not to mention a wine bar, wellness center, breweries & restaurants.
With fantastic parks & gorgeous conservation areas nearby, it’s easy to see why so many people flock to Waunakee.
Town of Dunn
Stretching from Lake Waubesa to Lake Kegonsa, this rural township prides itself on creating a sustainable community that protects farmland & open space. The Town of Dunn has won 2 “Renew America Awards” for National Award for Environmental Sustainability in the"Growth Management/Regional Planning" category.
On the shore of Lake Waubesa, the Dunn Heritage Park Project is currently underway, focusing on removing invasive species, planting native plants, installing culverts, creating parking spots, installing a canoe/kayak launch, and installing shoreline rip rap.
Southwest Madison
Southwest Madison is best described as quiet, residential and mature. Considered a tight knit and active community with a small town. See why Verona residents love where they live. Charming, artsy, scenic; Mount Horeb is not to be overlooked
Blue Mounds
Panoramic views of gorgeous bluffs & valleys for as far as the eye can see; welcome to the Driftless Area. Blue Mounds is home to Cave Of The Mounds which offers cave tours, music performances & events year round (for adults & kids alike), as well as the lovely Blue Mounds State Park which has a newer pool & splash pad. Challenging climbs makes it a destination for cyclists (The Horribly Hilly Hundreds runs right through).
Mount Horeb is just minutes away, offering up a wide array of local shops, art galleries, restaurants & more.
Mount Horeb
Mount Horeb embraces its rich Norwegian heritage, so much so that it’s streets are graced with life size, locally carved wooden trolls! In addition to these local pieces of folklore art, this charming village boasts cafes, gourmet restaurants, bakeries, a world-class brewpub, award-winning wineries, scenic bike trails, galleries, antiques, shops, museums & more.
Outdoor enthusiasts are sure to enjoy the hiking, cross country & downhill skiing, challenging road bike routes and, of course, the photo ops that the rolling hills & stunning vistas offer year round.
Paoli
The Sugar River winds through this vibrant, tiny & charming town. Enjoy your afternoon on a walking tour of the historic buildings, stroll through art galleries and several locally owned shops or grab a bite at one of the fine eateries. Time it right and you’ll find yourself at one of the town’s festivals or live music events. The beautiful country roads & gentle hills make Paoli a popular destination (or starting point) cyclists.
Springdale
Lying within the Upper Sugar River Watershed & along the eastern edge of Wisconsin’s famous Driftless Area, the town of Springdale features gorgeous bluffs & valleys for as far as the eye can see. Many natural springs feed some of the finest trout streams in the State.
Southwest
Surrounded by a plethora of shopping, restaurants & bars, the southwest side boasts many quiet residential neighborhoods with a wide variety of housing including Colonials, ranches, contemporary, multi-levels & even funky mid century gems.
The largest of all Madison Community Parks, Elver Park occupies the southwest side. The park offers everything from disc golf to softball diamonds, soccer fields, reservable shelters, ice-skating & hockey rinks, a huge sledding hill, and a cross-country ski trail.
Town of Verona
Within minutes of West Madison, Middleton & Verona, this area offers a wide selection of city amenities in a rural settling. Here you’ll find the award winning University Ridge Golf Course, plenty of great road bike routes & the gorgeous 160 acre Prairie Moraine Park with off leash dog park.
The 1,200 mile Ice Age Trail meanders through as well as the beautiful Military Ridge State Trail. The captivating Epic campus lies on the western side of town. Parts of the Town are in the midst of development.
Verona
“Hometown USA”. Verona offers that small town feel you crave with the conveniences of Madison at your fingertips. Local food, drinks, coffee- it’s all here, as well as the Verona Area Performing Arts Series which works hard to bring exciting performances to the community.
Outdoor adventures await at the ice rinks, numerous parks, mountain bike trails, huge dog park & nearby award winning University Ridge Golf Course. The 1,200 mile Ice Age Trail meanders through town as well as the beautiful Military Ridge State Trail. The captivating Epic campus lies on the western side of town.
East Madison
East Madison is a hub of nationally known shopping & dining. Looking for all the perks of city life — check out Sun Prairie. Or, catch some small town vibes in Cottage Grove.
Cottage Grove
The small town feel you crave, the conveniences of Madison at your fingertips. Amidst the rolling hills of beautiful farmland, Cottage Grove offers “Best of Madison” golf courses, the popular 52 mile long Glacial Drumlin State Trail, locally owned food & drink options as well as free live music in the summers. Many road bike routes keep you connected to the beautiful countryside as well as Madison’s east side.
East Madison
The East Towne area to the far eastern edge of this area is anchored by countess shopping & dining chains, while the northern part is quietly tucked back into a series of residential neighborhoods.
Grandview Commons is a neat neighborhood towards the eastern edge of the east Madison sector. With it's newer homes & New Urbanism design, neighborhood amenities are practically out your front door. This neighborhood is perfectly situated for cyclists looking to hit the rolling hills of Cottage Grove or wishing to commute by bike to Downton Madison.
Town of Cottage Grove
Gentle rolling hills, abundant wildlife, beautiful farms & charming homes, the Town of Cottage Grove offers an eye full of natural beauty with the convenience of several surrounding communities.
Not only a great place for road biking, the highly popular 52 mile Glacial Drumlin State Trail runs from Cottage Grove to the Fox River Sanctuary in Waukesha with easy connections to Madison & Milwaukee.
Sun Prairie
There’s always something going on in Sun Prairie; music, festivals, parades, art, the list goes on. The charming downtown Sun Prairie offers a smattering of local favorites while recent growth has included a fantastic new movie theater, new high school new shopping, eateries & more. The community is discussing adding 3 new schools to accommodate for future growth.
Central Madison
Explore in the heartbeat of the city. Diverse, historic, urban, localvore, lakes; central Madison has it all.
Isthmus
A Walker’s Paradise! Walk to the Farmer’s Market on the square, State St, Willy St, Lake Mendota or Lake Monona- there’s no reason to get in the car- everything is within a short walk.
While the Isthmus is home to some of the city’s oldest homes & includes multiple historic districts, many new upscale developments line the East Washington corridor.
Maple Bluff
Along the shores of lake Monona & just outside of downtown Madison, you’ll fall in love the towering trees, spacious yards, breathtaking sunsets & historic architecture that the distinct Village of Maple Bluff offers.
This tight knit community comes together for concerts, a holiday tree lighting, movies in the park, pool parties, numerous festivals, an annual Bocce Ball Bash, youth summer camp, youth sailing & windsurfing instruction, fitness classes, rec leagues, archery, crafting, engineering activities & more. Walk to the Maple Bluff Country Club or the perennially popular Tenney Park as well as multiple locally owned restaurants.
Monona
The sense of community is strong and the neighborly love flows- parties, bonfires, game nights, home brew swaps & free veggie stands are a few of the things that residents enjoy.
Monona is perfect for those that love urban living yet crave nature. You’ll appreciate all the grocery stores, shops, salons, pet care, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, beautiful library, community center, public pool, tennis courts, ice rink, the imaginative Dream Park as well as the Edna Taylor Conservancy and of course, Lake Monona. On top of it all, everything you love about Madison is easy to access by foot, bike, car or watercraft.
Near East
The near east side is known for it’s tight knit, active, passionate & eclectic community. The values of the community shine bright through it’s heavy focus on local, organic, ethical, sustainable, second hand & upcycled offerings.
Several free, family friendly music festivals & live concerts take place throughout the summer making this the perfect destination for residents near and far.
Near West
The near west side is home to some of the City’s most coveted neighborhoods including University Heights, Dudgeon Monroe & Vilas. The area boasts several nationally recognized historic homes, 11 Native American effigy mounds (including the famed “bird effigy,” which is more than 200 feet wide), Edgewood College, Lake Wingra, the Arboretum & Henry Vilas Zoo.
Monroe Street has been a popular destination since (believe it or not) the 1850’s. Restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques & bars remain a big draw for residents across the Madison metro area.
Shorewood Hills
Just west of UW-Madison and on the shore of Lake Mendota, the historically rich village of Shorewood Hills is known for it’s gorgeous homes, lush trees and tight knit community.
A few gems include the Blackhawk Country Club, which includes several well-preserved effigy mounds, the popular Shorewood Pool, a scenic bike path connecting to the UW campus and downtown, plus a beach, boathouse, and community garden.
South Central
A smattering of neighborhoods; there’s something for everyone here. To the east you’ll find gorgeous lakefront homes along peaceful Waunona Way. Surrounding Park St you’ll uncover the active & vibrant Bay Creek. Just west of Park St lies the secluded Arboretum neighborhood, the UW Arboretum & Lake Wingra.
Park St continues to undergo a massive face lift with expanded medical facilities, new apartment buildings, shops, restaurants & bars, adding to the already popular mix of hotspots. Bountiful bike routes easily connect commuters & cyclists to all parts of the city as well & beyond.