Named after President James Madison, Madison is the capital of the state of Wisconsin. Earlier a small settlement, Madison's stock rose in 1836 when it was selected to be the state capital. The University of Wisconsin is located here and gives the city a youthful, contemporary buzz.

Downtown, set between the two lakes Mendota and Monona is extremely picturesque. Visit the State Capitol built in white granite between 1906 and 1917 and the State Historical Society Museum with its interesting exhibits on the Wisconsin history. The University of Wisconsin is home to the Elvehjem Museum of Art and an excellent arboretum, the University Arboretum with over a thousand acres of diverse plants and animal life. .

Other attractions in Madison include the spectacular Monona Terrace Community and Convention designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the Henry Vilas Zoo and a well-laid out botanical gardens.

If you are driving, you can reach Madison on I-90 West from Chicago. From Milwaukee, Madison can be approached on the I-94. Accommodation in Madison is expensive within the city with cheaper options towards the east off I-90/94. B&Bs are available as are hotels housed in historic buildings. Food is available easily -- State Street offers cuisine from all over the world, including kosher. Thanks to the University, there's plenty of action in the evening -- catch performances, often for free on campus or visit one of the many bars and pubs which offer live music ranging from blues to heavy metal.