Madison: America’s Healthiest City for Fitness Enthusiasts

“The poetry of earth is never dead.” – John Keats

Madison, Wisconsin, came as a delightful surprise. Contrary to my expectation of finding a blue-collar city surrounded by cornfields, I discovered a vibrant urban landscape rich in charm. As I wandered through the neighborhood, I noticed the historic homes, each possessing a narrative of their own. The air carried the distinctive scent of aged wood, reminiscent of houses filled with untold stories. The residences, closely nestled together, compete for modest lakefront spaces, leading residents to artfully transform their limited yard areas into lush gardens featuring flowers and vegetables, leaving no room for traditional lawns. Fortunately, the city is adorned with numerous parks—sprawling greenery that invites outdoor enjoyment, most of which complement the beautiful lakes that pepper the region.

It is no surprise that Madison was recognized as the fittest city in the nation by Fitbit in 2016 and remained among the top contenders in subsequent years. The city’s accessibility is remarkable, featuring over 200 miles of bike lanes, added electric bike rental options, and ample sidewalks with minimal traffic congestion. Everywhere I turned, individuals were keenly engaged in activities such as running, biking, frisbee, or simply basking in the sun, signifying a strong sense of community pride. Notably, the existence of free libraries throughout neighborhoods and a welcoming atmosphere for all demographics further emphasize the city’s charm. I even witnessed a passerby picking up litter, demonstrating collective responsibility.

As I have mentioned previously, I am not typically drawn to urban environments, often feeling out of place and overwhelmed. However, my experiences in Madison felt contrary to that sentiment, revealing itself as an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. If you seek guidance on activities in this charming city, here are my top five recommendations:

Bike Around the Lake

Rent a bike and enjoy a 12-mile route circling Lake Monona. You can either ride at your leisure or take part in the Clean Lakes Alliance “Loop the Lakes Bike Ride.”

This event occurs in June, featuring various fun stops such as pizza and brews along the route, culminating in a beachside celebration. You may also explore the biking paths at the UW-Madison Arboretum or navigate the college campus itself. For those seeking a more rugged experience, Blue Mound State Park boasts the best mountain biking trails in Wisconsin, as recognized in 2007 and 2008.

Visit Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Accessibility is free, with donation boxes strategically placed. Located alongside Lake Monona, this 16-acre garden offers a serene walking experience.

My visit here diverged from my previous experiences at gardens like Butchart Botanical Gardens in Victoria, BC. While it may lack the formal construction of some gardens, it still offers pleasant pathways in a more natural setting, with a few artistic features scattered throughout.

Contrary to my expectations of meticulously kept rose gardens and clearly demarcated sections, this garden exudes a sense of wildness, reminiscent of a space allowed to evolve naturally, with some areas slightly overtaken by weeds. Still, it remains an enjoyable setting to spend a peaceful afternoon.

Explore the University Arboretum and Zoo

Had I known earlier, I would have prioritized a visit to the zoo and arboretum over the botanical gardens. On my final day in Madison, I ventured over to discover the zoo and arboretum after enjoying some local brews and lunch at a nearby brewery, which led to engaging conversations with fellow patrons. Unfortunately, the zoo was closed upon my arrival. However, it remains a free destination housing over 650 animals from 155 species. As a member of the American Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Henry Villas Zoo actively participates in global conservation efforts and educational initiatives.

After exploring the zoo, I highly recommend visiting the Arboretum and opting for a leisurely stroll. I decided to venture off the main road loop before reaching the visitor center, where I unexpectedly encountered a deer and four turkeys. While cyclists zipped past me and runners sped along the pathways, I found solace at a small lookout, observing the wildlife as they foraged for food. This experience was nothing short of blissful.

The Arboretum features an 8-mile hiking loop that leads visitors through serene, shaded woods, along a picturesque minor lake. In this environment, you can escape the city noise, stepping into a world that feels entirely distinct.

Kayak on the Lake

Given the abundance of lakes, there are numerous opportunities for water sports. The locals of Madison fully embrace this lifestyle, with options to rent kayaks, paddleboards, or wave-runners. Alternatively, if you possess your own boat, enjoy water-skiing or sailing on a sunny day. Head to Brittingham Boats at Lake Monona or Marshall Boats at Lake Mendota for easy rentals. Pricing varies, with stand-up paddleboards costing $16 for the first hour and $10 for subsequent hours, while kayaks are $15 the first hour and $10 thereafter. For detailed pricing, visit their website.

Participate in Local Festivals

One of my favorite aspects of Madison is its vibrant summer festivals. These events aren’t just large, expensive concerts but free weekly performances set in the capital, accompanied by a variety of food trucks. The entire city comes out, regardless of individual music preferences, to enjoy these gatherings. One evening, as I departed my hotel for dinner, I encountered a lively crowd at Capitol Square, where residents had already established their blankets and camp chairs to secure good seating for a classical accordion concert.

Surrounded by picnic baskets and the sounds of laughter as corks popped, I observed community members of all ages come together to revel in the performance. Even those experiencing homelessness joined the celebration, illustrating the inclusivity of these events. Once the concert concluded, attendees left the area spotless, with not a single trace of rubbish remaining. This vibrant atmosphere continues throughout the summer! If you find yourself in the area, consider attending one of these musical events with a food truck meal in hand and enjoy the delightful ambiance—it’s a highlight of any visit to Madison. For those interested in other destinations that offer fantastic opportunities for nature rediscovery, consider exploring Hocking Hills State Park, just outside Columbus, Ohio.