The most popular season is just around the corner, as there are so many fun fall things to do in Madison, WI. The heat of summer breaks, the lakes take on a golden glow in the evenings, and the whole city seems to lean into autumn, from the busy farmers market to the roar of the crowd on football Saturdays. Whether you’re looking to experience the fall foliage, hunting for the best harvest events, or just want a weekend away, there’s plenty to do in Madison, WI, this fall.
Of course, we’d be remiss if we didn’t tell you more about Badger Stadium. The kick-off for football season is by far the number one reason visitors head to Madison in the fall. This includes alumni, but also those who really want to experience the feeling of a grand stadium, packed with dedicated fans, and plenty of tailgating and lead-up to make a full weekend of it. Lodging near UW Madison is often at a premium.
If you’re still deciding where to stay in Madison on your next visit, The Buckingham Inn is a boutique Bed and Breakfast that puts you close to the action with the kind of warm, personal stay a larger hotel can’t match. With dedicated Innkeepers, who are not only Badger fans but locals through and through, you will get personal insights into the best fall adventures in the area. We only have three charming guest rooms on-site, so you’ll quickly see why our B&B is such a hidden gem in Madison. Book your lodging today!
Our Favorite Fall Things to Do in Madison, WI
Madison in the fall is such a popular time to visit. Not only is the weather as pleasant as it gets, but there are also so many festive fall things to do in Madison to celebrate the season. Whether that’s cheering on the Badgers or strolling the gardens at Olbrich, there’s plenty to fill a quick weekend getaway from Chicago or a longer extended vacation if you’re coming from farther away. These are the experiences we most often point our guests toward and get rave reviews for on their return to our B&B.
Search for Wisconsin Fall Foliage
Wisconsin’s fall colors are a big draw, and Madison’s setting means you don’t have to drive far to see them. The Arboretum, the Lakeshore Path, and sections of the Capital City State Trail all turn brilliant shades of red and gold, usually peaking in mid to late October. Checking a Wisconsin fall foliage map before you go is a smart move, since peak color can shift by a week or two depending on the year, but Madison typically follows the same general timeline as the rest of southern Wisconsin.
Exploring by bike is such a lovely way to take in the fall, and Madison is known as one of the most bike-friendly cities in the Midwest. There are so many excellent Madison bike trails, and the fall colors and temperate climate make long rides all the more enjoyable.
Harvest Festivals & Farms
Catch the fall harvest at the iconic Dane County Farmers’ Market. The market wraps around Capitol Square well into fall, with harvest season bringing squash, apples, and more seasonal items. It’s also a great excuse to walk the Square and pop into nearby shops and restaurants.
Visit a pumpkin patch or apple orchard. No fall trip to the area is complete without a stop at Schuster’s Farm, a local favorite for pumpkin picking, corn mazes, and hayrides just outside the city. For apple picking, Eplegaarden is the go-to orchard, with rows of trees to wander and fresh cider to bring home. Both make for an easy half-day trip and a great excuse to get outside the city center.
Support the Home Team at UW Madison
Let’s cheer on the Badgers! Fall in Madison means football season, and there’s nothing quite like the energy downtown on a UW Madison home game Saturday. Homecoming week brings an extra layer of tradition, with a parade, bonfire, and a stadium full of red. If you’re planning a trip around a game weekend, book early. Our guide to lodging near UW Madison covers everything you need to know about staying close to Camp Randall on game days.
Visit the Local Landmarks
Warm up at Olbrich Botanical Gardens. As the outdoor gardens transition into their fall colors, the Bolz Conservatory keeps its tropical plants and orchids thriving inside, making it a nice stop on a cooler day. The perennial gardens and Royal Thai Pavilion are still worth a walk before you head in to warm up.
State Street in Madison is a must any time of year, but fall is the perfect time to stroll and take it all in. You’ll find locally owned shops, restaurants serving a diverse array of cuisines, and the Overture Center for the Arts for live entertainment. End at the Wisconsin State Capitol building, always more striking when framed by vibrant fall colors.
Looking for Where to Stay in Madison, WI?
After a day of foliage walks, an orchard visit, or cheering on the Badgers, coming back to a quiet, comfortable space makes the whole trip feel complete. If you’re weighing where to stay in Madison this fall, The Buckingham Inn is a highly-rated Bed and Breakfast in Madison, WI, with warm common spaces, thoughtful amenities, and an optional homemade breakfast to fuel your day before you head back out; some guests prefer to find a morning meal at one of the fantastic restaurants in Madison.
As a small boutique property, we offer a more personal experience than a bigger hotel, with hosts who know exactly which trail has the best color this week or which stand at the farmers market has the season’s best apples. Fall books up quickly around football weekends and peak foliage season, so if you have your dates in mind, don’t wait too long to reserve your suite. Book your stay and make the most of fall in Madison.
