Under $100: Madison

You’re going to be doing some walking in Madison, so let’s get some food in you first. Now, you’re going to an institution. “Average” coffee with unlimited refills at Mickey’s Dairy Bar, across the street from the University of Wisconsin’s football stadium and opened in 1947, hasn’t really changed. Order The Scrambler, anything you want (bacon, sausage, onion?) scrambled with eggs, placed on a bed of home fries, topped with Wisconsin cheddar and, wait for it, gravy. (Serves one Wisconsinite, or perhaps four of you.)

Wisconsin State Capitol © Benkrut | Dreamstime

Assuming you’re able, start making your way to the water; it’s easy to find, downtown Madison is on an isthmus and you’re never more than a mile to water. State Street is the pulse of this university town and bisects the beautiful Monona and Mendota lakes. Grab a brat at State Street Brats if you’re actually thinking lunch is in order or better simply head up Babcock Hill to Babcock Hall for an ice cream cone at the university’s dairy science building.

It’s difficult to recommend food especially after your next stop; you’re headed to the Memorial Student Union where the terrace is the spot to watch the lake and enjoy Wisconsin’s cornerstone university, lakes and craft beers.

University Memorial Union Terrace © Youngryand | Dreamstime

From there, it’s up State Street to the state capital, a building worth a walk around as it was once taller than the nation’s Capitol until forced to lower it. The Wisconsin Veterans Museum or the Frank Lloyd Wright Museum are each worth a look. I can’t see you eating more, but to finish the Wisconsin experience grab a brandy (yes brandy, always brandy in Wisconsin) Old Fashioned at the appropriately named Old Fashioned on the square. Eat if you need to as it’s delightful with deep-fried cheese curds.