| Official name | City of Madison |
| Type | Capital city |
| Madison skyline from Lake Monona | |
| State | Wisconsin |
| Country | United States |
| Established | 1836 |
| Population | 275,000 |
| Area (km²) | 262 |
| Time zone | Central (CST/CDT) |
| ZIP code(s) | 53701–53794 |
| Area code(s) | 608 |
Madison is the capital of the U.S. state of Wisconsin and the county seat of Dane County. Built on an isthmus between lakes Mendota and Monona, Madison is celebrated for its lakeside views, academic atmosphere, and progressive politics.
Overview
- Selected as the capital in 1836 before Wisconsin became a state
- Named after James Madison, the fourth President of the United States
- Consistently ranked among the best places to live in the U.S.
Landmarks and Attractions
- Wisconsin State Capitol** – modeled after the U.S. Capitol and open for tours
- University of Wisconsin–Madison – a flagship public research university
- State Street – pedestrian-friendly strip connecting campus to the Capitol Square
- Monona Terrace – a convention center designed by Frank Lloyd Wright
- Olbrich Botanical Gardens and Henry Vilas Zoo
Economy
Madison’s economy is powered by:
- Government and education
- Technology and biotech startups
- Healthcare systems like UW Health and UnityPoint Health
- Insurance, finance, and state-level nonprofits
Culture and Lifestyle
- Progressive and politically active population
- Known for bike paths, farmers’ markets, and sustainability efforts
- Hosts events like the Wisconsin Film Festival, Art Fair on the Square, and Great Taste of the Midwest
- Booming food and craft beer scene
Education
- University of Wisconsin–Madison – with over 40,000 students
- Numerous public and private schools with strong performance
- Home to several research institutions and think tanks
Transportation
- Dane County Regional Airport (MSN)
- Metro Transit provides city bus service
- Bike-friendly infrastructure and walkable downtown
- Major highways: U.S. Route 151 and Interstates 39/90/94
Fun Facts
- Madison is one of only two U.S. capitals built on an isthmus
- More than 260 parks are located within city limits
- The Capitol building is the tallest in Madison by law — no structure may legally exceed its height