No need to drive five hours out of your way to find the perfect spot for some rest and relaxation.
1. Allen Centennial Gardens
Experience nature on your walk to class. Even if you don’t live on Lakeshore, take a quick detour through Allen Centennial Gardens.
Photo By Jeff Miller
2. James Madison Park
Venture further downtown to find a slice of lakeside heaven. James Madison Park provides all the great amenities expected in a park but with a twist: a spectacular view of Lake Mendota.
Creative Commons/Richard Hurd
3. Arboretum
Spanning 1,200 acres, the UW-Madison Arboretum is the ultimate spot to find nature in Madison. Take the afternoon off and get lost among the trails, perhaps trekking for a bit alongside Lake Wingra.
Photo By Jeff Miller
4. Picnic Point
A classic adventure. Make the 2-mile trek and stunning views of the UW-Madison campus and Capitol await. Convince your best friends to go, explore until dark and then make a campfire.
Photo By Jeff Miller
5. Capitol Square
True, Capitol Square is the essence of downtown Madison, but while the bustle of everyday happens around the four sides of the square, find sanctuary within. Grab a book and find a shady spot under one of those great big oak trees.
Photo By Jeff Miller
6. UW Institute for Discovery
Don’t let the rain or snowfall keep you from nature. While the weather is dreary, settle among ginkgoes, palms and ferns to study or simply relax in the Mesozoic garden niche and dream of warmer days.
Photo By Jeff Miller
7. Bascom Hill
Out of breath halfway up Bascom? Veer off the path and onto the grass to work on homework or catch up with friends between classes. In the winter, grab a tray and slide all the way down to Lake Street.
Photo By Jeff Miller
8. Muir Woods
Another after-class escape—and another great leg workout overlooking Lake Mendota.
Photo By Jeff Miller
9. Wingra Park
In the mood to get offshore and out on a lake? Rent a boat, paddle board or kayak at Wingra Park and paddle off.
Creative Commons/Richard Hurd