Much of the activity in Madison centers upon the 18,000 acres of lake surface within or just outside the city limits.  The heart of Madison is built on an isthmus that divides Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. From the state capitol, which is surrounded by a huge plaza called Capitol Square, several major streets radiate outward like spokes on a wheel. One of those streets, State Street, is closed to traffic, except for a few buses. On this pleasant oasis,  many of the city's best museums, shops and restaurants are located.  This area adjoins the campus of the University of Wisconsin... read more in our Madison Destination Guide.

Stretched along a bluff overlooking one of Lake Michigan's most beautiful bays, Milwaukee is said to have the perfect balance of big-city attractions and small-town values. With a population of over 600,000 people, Milwaukee is the largest city in Wisconsin and the 17th largest in the nation. Yet, it is known for its safety and cleanliness... read our Milwaukee Destination Guide.