Experience in Madison, United States by Krista

What is it like to live in Madison? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Madison is an absolutely beautiful small city! I've lived in the downtown area for the last four years, and it is wonderful. The downtown is home to 50,000 students that attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison, so there are plenty of parties/bars to go to. Plus, the Majestic, the Orpheum, the Memorial Terrace, High Noon Saloon, etc. are all great music venues if you want to find some good concerts. In the summer, there are fantastic bike trails and routes for running. Plus, downtown Madison has three lakes, so there are numerous beaches.

What is the student lifestyle like in Madison?

Amazing. Madison is know for it's partying lifestyle, but the majority of students are also incredibly hard workers.

How much does it cost to live in Madison?

$350-$600 is average.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Madison? Is there any advice you can give?

No, not at all. Students are always looking for others to sublet their apartments. Or go to jsm.com.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

State Street, a famous street downtown, has numerous wonderful restaurants. They have different ethnic foods, as well as traditional American foods. There are Ethiopian, Spanish, Mexican, Afghani, Irish, Italian, etc.

What places would you recommend visiting in Madison?

Fun things to do:

The Majestic has amazing music! The Memorial Terrace also has wonderful music, and it is a great place to hang out in the summer. State Street has awesome bars and restaurants. In the summer/fall, every Saturday morning, there are Farmer's Markets around the Capitol Square. Plus, they often have concerts or other events there. 

Places to Live:

I live near Broom and Johnson Street. I think it's a great spot to live, but it's a little far from campus. Langdon Street is the fraternity/sorority street, and there are lots of parties here. It's close to state street, which is great, but can be loud on the weekends. The Spring Street area is called the "sophomore slums". Many sophomores live here. It's nice, but can also be loud on the weekends. Equinox, 420 West Gorham, etc. are all large apartment buildings in a good location, but they may be expensive.

Is it good to eat out in Madison? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Wonderful! I love Ha-Long Bay on Willy Street. Other great restaurants around the capitol are Coopers Tavern, The Old Fashioned, The Great Dane, Brocach's Irish Pub.

The best breakfast place ever is Mickie's Dairy Bar!

There are also a great variety of ethnic restaurants on State Street!

Is the nightlife good in Madison? Where is good to go?

Amazing! State Street has many great bars. If you go up to the square (where the capitol building is), there are also great bars, but less college kids go up here. My favorite is Gennas, which is really unique. I started going to these bars my Senior year of college.

What advice would you give future students headed to Madison?

Have a great time, I guarantee that you will! :)