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Evening

Golden Light on the Square

Start with the view, then settle in for the evening.

Best time: 15 JanAbout 180 min

Timeline

  1. 15:17

    Madison Sourdough Bread Company

    Pick up fresh sourdough bread and a coffee to go. The bakery is open and ready for you well before the evening rush.

  2. 15:47

    Wisconsin State Capitol

    Walk the short distance to the Wisconsin State Capitol grounds. Find a spot on the terrace or steps facing west. The sun is setting toward the WSW, casting that final golden light over the dome and the city.

  3. 17:17

    The Old Fashioned

    Head to The Old Fashioned for dinner. It is right on the Square with a great view of the Capitol. Order supper club fare, perhaps some deep-fried cheese curds or artisanal cheese plates, in a warm and lively atmosphere.

  4. 18:17

    The Plaza Tavern

    Finish the night at The Plaza Tavern. This historic spot has been part of downtown life since Prohibition. Grab a drink and enjoy the atmosphere, or stick around for the sports if it is on.

Local tip

The Capitol grounds are free to walk, but if you want to go inside, check the visitor center hours. The Old Fashioned and Plaza Tavern are both within easy walking distance of the Capitol.

Check before you go

  • Madison Sourdough Bread Company is open Mo-Sa 06:30-17:00 and Su 08:00-17:00.
  • The Old Fashioned is open Mo-Th 11:00-21:00, Fr 11:00-22:00, and Sa 09:00-22:00.
  • The Plaza Tavern is open Mon-Thu 11AM-2AM, Fri-Sat 11AM-2:30AM.

Worth knowing

  • The Old Fashioned is open at 17:17 only on Mo, Tu, We, Th, Fr, Sa

Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Madison (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).

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