Winter can be a wonderful time of year, full of opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy the beauty of the season. However, it can also be challenging to find things to do when the weather is cold and the days are short. Here are some ideas for things you can do in the winter:
Ice Skating
Grab your skates and hit the lakes. You can also check out nearby ice rinks with skate rentals at The Edgewater Hotel, Monona Bank RiverRink and at Tenney Park Lagoon rink. See a full list of ice rinks in the Madison area!
Bike on Ice
Try something new! Fat-tire bike rentals are available at Machinery Row, right on the shores of Lake Monona in downtown Madison. Rent a fat-tire bike (which is perfect for slippery terrain) for $75 a day.
Ice Fishing
Get ready to catch the big one and enjoy a beautiful view. You can rent ice fishing gear at Warner Park on Madison’s north side. Note: Fishing licenses are required in Wisconsin for everyone age 16 and over. License options are available for purchase online through the Wisconsin DNR.
Ice Hiking
Make a journey across Lake Mendota or Lake Monona for an epic day of ice hiking. Popular entrance points include the Olin Park boat launch, Olbrich Park, Warner Park, Memorial Union Terrace and Morrison Park.
Late Winter Market at Garver Feed Mill
Got the winter blues? Head over to the Garver Feed Mill and join your favorite farmers at the inaugural Late Winter Dane County Farmers’ Market.
Saturdays, January 7 thru April 8, 2023.
8am - 12pm Garver Feed Mill, 3241 Garver Green.
Get your market fix all year long. You will still find many of your favorite Dane County Farmers’ Market members, as well as a full array of fruits and vegetables, cheeses, hyper-local meats, honey, bakery items, and many specialty items. Do your weekly grocery shopping, savor the vibrant colors and aromas of delicious local foods, enjoy the sunshine streaming in the windows, and experience a reprieve from the cold of our Wisconsin winter.
These are just a few ideas for things you can do in the winter. No matter what you choose to do, make sure to dress appropriately for the weather and stay safe and warm!