Area Information

Get ready to live life to the fullest in the Dane County area this summer! Local annual summer festivals bring music, food, and fun to many Southern Wisconsin communities throughout the summer, and our real estate agents are excited to share the upcoming festivities. 

Mark your calendars for these great summer festivals in Dane County.

• Oregon Summer Fest - 245 Brook St, Oregon, WI 53575
  The Oregon Summer Fest is a beloved annual tradition in the community of Oregon, Wisconsin. This year's festival spans four days from July 23 to 26 and will offer enough fun, food, and festivities to keep you going all summer long! It starts with a fireworks display on Thursday evening and ends with Sunday's BBQ 'Thrilla on the Grilla'. In between, there will be a car show, craft fair, carnival games, cornhole tournaments, and much more. The festival takes place in Kiser Park, just minutes from these Oregon homes for sale.
  
  
• Concerts in the Park - 100 E Main St, Cambridge, WI 53523
  The Summer Concert Series in Cambridge, WI, will be returning this year, with live music on select Fridays throughout the summer at Veterans Park. Upcoming shows include Mad City Jug Band on 6/17, Small Blind Johnny on 7/8, and The Tooles on 7/29. All concerts are free to the public and convenient to many Cambridge homes for sale. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs, and there will be food available onsite (usually in the form of a taco truck or the Cambridge Lions Club pizza/beer tent).
  
  
• Coffee Break Festival - 400 Mandt Pkwy, Stoughton, WI 53589
  Sure, Wisconsin might be known for our cheese curds and local craft beer. But did you know the vital role coffee has played in our communities? In fact, the area around Stoughton homes for sale is known as "Home of America's Coffee Break." Celebrate your favorite caffeinated beverage at the Coffee Break Festival on the third Saturday in August. Coffee tastings are available for $6 at the festival. 
  
  
• La Fête De Marquette - 202 S Ingersoll St, Madison, WI 53703
  Live music is also the central focus of La Fête De Marquette, which will be returning to Madison's Eastside neighborhood this summer. In addition, to live bands on three stages, the festival will feature food, beer, and wine tents, as well as family games and activities, and a three-story Ferris wheel. The festival takes place July 14-17 at McPike Park, which also happens to be the setting of Madison's beloved Eastside Farmers Market every Tuesday from April through October. All proceeds from La Fête De Marquette benefit the Wil-Mar Neighborhood Center.
  
  
• Concerts at McKee - 2930 Chapel Valley Rd, Fitchburg, WI 53711
  By now, you've probably noticed that Dane County has plenty of summer festivals that involve talented local musicians. And the area near Fitchburg homes for sale is no exception, thanks to the Concerts at McKee series! On the third Monday of June, July, and August, you can enjoy a free concert at beautiful McKee Farms Park. Be sure to check out their website for the latest band announcements for their concert series.

Contact us today to learn more about life in Southern Wisconsin and the surrounding areas! When you're ready to find your dream home in Dane County, our real estate agents are here to help every step of the way. 

What better way to cool off on a sunny day than with a heaping bowl or a towering cone of your favorite flavor of ice cream? 

If you're looking for a place to cool down and satisfy your sweet tooth, then our real estate agents have you covered. These are our favorite Dane County ice cream shops.

• Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Co. - 2685 Research Park Dr, Fitchburg, WI 53711
  A Madison-area staple that has multiple locations, Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Co. feels a bit like a classic, old-fashioned ice cream parlor with a modern twist. They've been family-owned since 1962, and the Fitchburg location serves more than 100 flavors. Can't decide what you want? Try an ice cream flight with four unique flavors. Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Co. is within walking distance of many Fitchburg homes for sale, so a tasty treat is never far away.
  
  
• Ice Cream Social - 2421 University Ave, Madison, WI 53726
  Serving hand-made small-batch ice cream, Madison's Ice Cream Social started out as a homemade ice cream delivery service during spring 2020. Now in their own brick-and-mortar shop, Ice Cream Social still serves amazing ice cream with creative flavors like Orange Pistachio Chip and Lavender Honeycomb. Find them on University Avenue, just minutes from these Madison homes for sale.
  
  
• Hubbard Avenue Diner - 7445 Hubbard Ave, Middleton, WI 53562
  A homey American eatery that serves all the classic diner fare you'd expect, Hubbard Avenue Diner is one of the best lunch spots in Middleton. But we're here to talk about ice cream, so let's skip right to dessert. This place serves up some truly next-level giant sundaes, not to mention shakes, malts, and floats. Hubbard Avenue Diner is also famous for their pies—you'll see them in the old-fashioned display counter as soon as you walk in the door—and we highly recommend ordering a slice à la mode.
  
  
• Villa Dolce - 1828 Parmenter St, Middleton, WI 53562
  Pizza is the first thing many locals think of when they think about Villa Dolce, a relaxed Italian eatery in Middleton. And while this place certainly offers up some of the best pizza in the area, it also has an amazing gelato selection, so you'll definitely want to save room for dessert. The restaurant is located a stone's throw from many Middleton homes for sale and also serves up some tasty gelato cocktails ("Gelatinis," if you will) for the grown-up members of your party. Try the Strawberry Sensations, made with Malibu coconut and pineapple rum, Cointreau, and strawberry gelato.
  
  
• Calliope Ice Cream - 3241 Garver Green, Madison, WI 53704
  Madison's own Calliope Ice Cream was founded in 2011 and has become a beloved local staple, serving some of the best (and most creative) homemade ice cream flavors in town. Their selection of hand-crafted, small-batch ice cream flavors is always changing, but you can count on finding something unexpected, like Brandy Old Fashioned or Mexican Hot Chocolate flavored ice cream. Hot Peanut Butter is a particular favorite; it's like Thai peanut sauce in ice cream form!

Contact us today to learn more about life in Dane County. The Madison, WI area really comes alive during the summer months, and our real estate agents are dedicated to helping you live life to the fullest in Dane County!

Wisconsin's May temperatures have made it feel like summer already. That means now is the perfect time to get out and enjoy all the outdoor adventures Dane County has to offer.

The Madison area is home to several beautiful lakes and rivers, making it an idyllic place to enjoy fishing, sailing, kayaking, swimming, and water sports. Our real estate agents have some tips on places to get out on the water in Dane County!

• Wingra Park - 824 Knickerbocker St, Madison, WI 53711
  Overlooking Lake Wingra, Wingra Park is the perfect jumping-off point for your next adventure in Madison. Wingra Boats offers canoe, kayak, and paddleboat rentals. Lake Wingra spans 336 acres, making it the smallest of the Madison area lakes and one of the best for small boats. Enjoy all of this within 10 minutes of Downtown Madison and with convenient proximity to many Madison homes for sale.
  
  
• Schluter Beach - 4511 Winnequah Rd, Monona, WI 53716
  Schluter Beach is an off-the-beaten-path spot to enjoy the waters of Lake Monona. Within walking distance to several Monona homes for sale, the beach is nestled in a small lakeside park in a quiet, residential area. It's a popular place for families to take kids to cool off on warm summer days. Public restrooms are available, and the park also has a small fishing pier. You can grab an ice cream cone at Monona Bait & Ice Cream right across the street.
  
  
• Fish Camp County Park - 3359 County Rd, McFarland, WI 53558
  Overlooking Lake Kegonsa, 99-acre Fish Camp County Park offers one of the best boat launch facilities in Dane County. The 3,200-acre lake is open to boats with unlimited horsepower. Fish Camp County Park is also a productive fishing spot, offering a fishing pier, fish cleaning station, and shoreline picnic area. Lake Kegonsa is minutes from many McFarland homes for sale and offers anglers ample populations of bass, pike, walleye, and panfish.
  
  
• Sugar River Outfitters - 6890 Paoli Rd, Belleville, WI 53508
  The Sugar River meanders through several communities south of Madison, and its mostly tranquil, easily navigable waters offer some of the best paddling in Dane County. For those unfamiliar with the river, Belleville's Sugar River Outfitters offers gear rentals, instruction, and guided river trips. A short distance from these Belleville homes for sale, the river's gentle flow passes woods, farmlands, and several small towns. Sugar River Outfitters is right next door to Hop Garden Brewery, a perfect spot for a post-paddle pint.
  
  
• Governor Nelson State Park - 5140 Co Hwy M, Waunakee, WI 53597
  The largest of Madison's four lakes, Lake Mendota encompasses over 9,700 acres and offers some of the best fishing and boating opportunities near Waunakee homes for sale. You can access this beautiful lake at several points, but Governor Nelson State Park is a long-standing favorite. With boat ramps, fish cleaning stations, a sandy swimming beach, lakeside picnic areas, and 8 miles of hiking trails, it's the ideal setting for a family lake trip. 

Contact us today to learn more about the adventures that await in the Southern Wisconsin area! Our real estate agents are here to help you move to the life you want.

Spring has finally arrived. Our real estate agents know your four-legged friends are waiting for outdoor adventures. Luckily, there are plenty of places you can go with Fido throughout the Dane County area.

Canine friends are welcome in many municipal parks, but the crown jewels for pet owners are the area's dedicated dog parks. You'll find them in many of Dane County's most desirable communities, full of fun amenities for both you and your pooch. Just remember, you will need a dog license and a park permit before you use the local dog parks.

Let's take a look at some of Dane County's top dog parks:

• Sun Prairie Dog Park – 1025 South Bird Street, Sun Prairie, WI 53590
  Not far from several Sun Prairie homes for sale, you'll find the Sun Prairie Dog Park. Also known as the Sun Prairie Pet Exercise Area, it is located on an inviting eleven acres of beautifully tended land. Equipped with parking for 32 vehicles, picnic areas including tables and benches, shelters, water, and portable restrooms, it has everything you could need for a day out with your four-legged companion.
  
  
• MRD Dog Exercise Area – 5209 County Highway Q, Waunakee, WI 53597
  MRD Dog Exercise Area showcases several enjoyable walking trails, shade shelters, a fenced-in agility course, and portable restrooms. Trails are mowed regularly. The park is open all year round, and you can pick up a permit for just $5 at a self-service station upon entry. It offers loads of fun near Waunakee homes for sale.
  
  
• Penni Klein Park – 8780 Airport Road, Middleton, WI 53562
  Several Middleton homes for sale are conveniently located near the Penni Klein Park, an expansive community park of 34 pristine acres. Home to eight soccer fields, the Steve Adler Baseball Diamond, and an ample trail system, you can explore Downtown Middleton from here. Visitors benefit from a parking area for 250 vehicles. Within the park, you'll find six acres of fenced land dedicated to off-leash exercise.
  
  
• Brittingham Park – 326 South Broom Street, Madison, WI 53703
  Madison homes for sale often have backyards for Rover to enjoy, but you can take things to the next level with a visit to the city's many off-leash dog parks. Brittingham Park may just be the most popular of these, sprawling across more than 25 acres in total. Substantial renovations were finished in 2019, including the addition of paw-friendly synthetic turf and an ADA-compliant doggy drinking fountain.
  
  
• Quann Park – 1802 Quann-Olin Parkway, Madison, WI 53713
  At a full 55 acres, Quann Park stands out as a haven for dogs and their owners. Sitting along the shore of beautiful Wingra Creek, the park is open every day from 4 a.m. to 10 o'clock in the evening. Most of the visitors come for the off-leash dog park, but there is also a 12-court tennis complex you can reserve in advance, as well as the Wingra Creek Bike Path. Drinking water and restroom facilities are available.
  
  
• Warner Park – 2930 North Sherman Avenue, Madison, WI 53704
  Last but not least, Warner Park's 200+ acres sit on the shores of Lake Mendota. In addition to its dog park and runs, it hosts a variety of outdoor community events. Concerts, dramatic performances, charity foot races, and family reunions all take place on a regular basis.

Contact us to learn more about what Dane County has to offer your family, pets included.

After a long wait, spring weather is here – and that means it's time for spring biking.

No matter where you are around Dane County or what kind of biking you prefer, there are options to enjoy. Our real estate agents know many people pick Madison homes for sale because of the outdoor adventures waiting nearby! Dane County has over 100 miles of trails made for bicycling. Read on for our recommendations on where to bike in Dane County. Each website provides location details:

• Capital City State Trail
  Capital City State Trail connects two other major trail systems in the state, but requires a permit. It has been recognized since 1998 and passes through a variety of biomes including wetland, lake, creek, prairie, uplands, and heavily wooded areas. It's more than 20 miles long and provides access to several points of interest and branching trails. Don't forget your state trail pass before you start!
  
  
• Lower Yahara River Trail
  Lower Yahara River Trail is one of the newest trails in Dane County. Its "Phase 1" opened to the public in August 2017. With 2.5 miles of off-road trail, it provides a brand new connection between Madison and the village of McFarland. It features North America's longest inland boardwalk bridge, intended solely for bicyclists and others using non-motorized transportation.
  
  
• Cannonball Path
  Cannonpath Path is a trail of just under four miles following the path of a historic railway from the bicycle roundabout at Military Ridge State Trail. In 2015, it was extended with a bridge across the Beltline. Plans are underway to further extend the trail all the way to Bowman Park, linking it with the Wingra Creek path.
  
  
• Military Ridge State Trail
  The 40-mile Military Ridge State Trail extends through the paths of Iowa and Dane Counties. Acting as a hub for local bicycle journeys, it connects Dodgeville and Fitchburg as well as many communities along the way. Defined by a military trail dating back to 1885, it provides bicycle access to the Capital City Trail or Badger State Trail. It passes through rolling hills, idyllic farmland, and historic mine country.
  
  
• Ice Age Junction Trail
  Ice Age Junction Trail is located east of Verona and is Dane County's answer to the 1,000 miles of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. This local spot highlights geological formations where Ice Age influence can be seen even today. The paved path is suitable for bicyclists and pedestrians. It's also popular with hikers and links up with a variety of state and county public lands associated with the National Scenic Trail.
  
  
• Monona Lake Bike Loop
  Monona Lake Bike Loop is the best way for cyclists to appreciate the wonderful views of Lake Monona, the second largest in the local chain of lakes. The loop itself rings twelve miles around the lakeshore and is among the most picturesque cycling trails in the region. On it, you'll visit the heart of bustling Madison and see quiet lakeside communities as you complete the journey.

Spring is a great time for outdoor adventures, and it's also a good time to accomplish your real estate goals in Dane County. Contact us to find out more about Dane County real estate opportunities.

Spring is in the air in the Madison area, and with National Wildlife Week here, it's a great time of year to get outside and explore the natural wonders of Wisconsin.

In honor of National Wildlife Week, our real estate agents are excited to highlight some of their favorite nature preserves and wildlife sanctuaries in and around Madison.

• Lakeshore Nature Preserve - 2000 University Bay Dr, Madison, WI 53705
  Owned by the University of Wisconsin–Madison and located on its campus, the 300-acre Lakeshore Nature Preserve is an outdoor teaching and research facility. It's open to the public and stretches along a 4-mile stretch of Lake Mendota's shoreline. Within walking distance of many Madison homes for sale, Lakeshore Nature Preserve includes several nature trails, as well as fishing and kayak launch sites on the lake. Keep an eye out for various species of waterfowl along the shoreline.
  
  
• Cherokee Marsh Conservation Park - 6098 N Sherman Ave, Madison, WI 53704
  Spanning around 2,000 acres, Cherokee Marsh Conservation Park consists primarily of woods, wetlands, and prairies along the Yahara River. The landscape is crisscrossed by a network of trails and boardwalks and is one of the best bird-watching spots in the Madison area. Bald eagles and osprey are commonly observed above the river, and sandhill cranes nest in the wetland areas every year, typically in April and May.
  
  
• Owen Conservation Park - 6021 Old Sauk Rd, Madison, WI 53705
  The rich prairies of Owen Conservation Park offer some of the best opportunities to see spring wildflowers in Madison. Coneflowers, goldenrod, and bluestem are among the many species that bring a splash of color to this 96-acre park throughout the year. Owen Conservation Park overlooks the West Side of Madison and also features several ponds populated by wood ducks, herons, and various shorebirds.
  
  
• Heritage Sanctuary - 625 Meadowlark Dr, Madison, WI 53714
  Spring is a great time to hike the nature trail in Heritage Sanctuary. From late April through about the middle of May, the forest floor beneath the budding oak canopy will be sprinkled with trillium flowers in full bloom. The timing is a little different every year, but it's a remarkable display to welcome the warmer weather. Heritage Sanctuary encompasses just nine acres and features a half-mile trail, making it the perfect place for a short, easy nature walk.
  
  
• Stricker's Pond - 7214 Longmeadow Rd, Madison, WI 53717
  Stricker's Pond is a small conservation area on Madison's West Side. It spans 13.5 acres, including the 9-acre glacial pond that gives it its name. The pond was formed when a chunk of ice broke away and was left buried in the earth as the glaciers receded about 10,000 years ago. Today, it's a lovely spot for a hike or bike ride, and you may spot a wide range of wildlife in the diverse habitat around the pond. It's a frequent stopover for migratory birds. 

Madison is a fantastic place to live for anyone who enjoys spending time in the great outdoors. Contact us today to learn more about life in Madison, Wisconsin.

Home to a variety of local brew houses and Irish pubs, it's no surprise that the Madison area is a great place to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. Join our real estate agents by partaking in the luck of the Irish at these lively pubs, saloons, and restaurants around Madison. 

• Lucky's St. Patrick's Day Bar Crawl - Red Rock Saloon, 222 W. Gorham S., Madison, WI 53703
  What's St. Patrick's Day without a traditional pub crawl? Meet your friends at Red Rock Saloon to start out on Lucky's St. Patrick's Day Bar Crawl. Enjoy food and drink specials at five great bars, followed by a lively after-party. A $1,000 prize will be awarded for the best costume of the evening. Tickets are $15, with a $5 discount per person for groups of four or more. The crawl takes place on Saturday, March 19, from 4 p.m. - 10 p.m., with the after-party scheduled for 10 p.m. - midnight.
  
  
• Essen Haus - 514 E. Wilson St., Madison, WI 53703
  Is St. Patrick's Day a springtime version of Oktoberfest? They'll be wearing green on March 17 at Essen Haus, a popular German restaurant that goes Irish for the day. Essen Haus will serve steins of green beer to go with a food menu of corned beef & cabbage, shepherd's pie, and other classic dishes. Irish pub band O'Darby will provide live entertainment. Festivities run from 3 p.m. - 10 p.m.
  
  
• Mackesey's Irish Pub - 317 State St., Madison, WI 53703
  When you visit Mackesey's Irish Pub, don't be surprised if you find yourself forgetting that you're in Madison. This family-run bar, located in a vintage building, has the authentic feel of an old-school Irish pub. Order a pint of Guinness, Smithwick's, or Harp to go with your burger or "toastie" sandwich. Be sure to bring plenty of coins to feed the jukebox. Mackesey's opens at 11 a.m. Monday through Saturday and noon on Sunday.
  
  
• Erin's Snug Irish Pub - 4601 American Pkwy., Madison, WI 53718
  Historically, a "snug" was a private room for people who didn't want to be seen in a bar. But that's not the case at Erin's Snug Irish Pub, which promotes an atmosphere of fun and fellowship. Each room has a Gaelic name along with its own decor to provide a variety of experiences. In addition to traditional favorites such as bangers & mash and cottage pie, the menu adds Irish flair to some unexpected dishes. Be sure to try the shepherd's pie mac & cheese or the shalaylee, an egg roll stuffed with corned beef, cabbage, and Swiss cheese. Erin's is open daily from 11 a.m. until closing.

According to an old Irish blessing, "May the roof above you never fall in and those gathered beneath it never fall out." We can help you with the roof portion of that when you contact us at Stark to help you make a plan to find a new home in the Dane County area. 

If hearing about friends' Spring Break plans has you feeling a bit stir crazy, it's not too late to book a spring staycation! Southern WI has beautiful options for a stay full of outdoor adventure or soothing relaxation. Read on to learn about a few of our local vacation destinations.

Our real estate agents know our state is dotted with inns, bed and breakfasts, and hotels that allow you to make the most of life in Wisconsin. The peaceful and serene surroundings will refresh you – and you might only have to travel a few minutes to reach your favorite new getaway. No matter what you have in mind, there's a nearby "staycation" that can help you reset this spring.

Let's take a closer look at some top staycation options throughout the local area:

• Cameo Rose Victorian Country Inn – 1090 Severson Road, Belleville, WI 53508-9728
  It's been said that "the nicest people in the world stay at" Cameo Rose Victorian Country Inn. This award-winning bed and breakfast is situated on 120 acres featuring forests, gardens, and meandering trails. It's delightful in all seasons with spring flower beds, summer rose gardens and fall foliage. And it is convenient to some of Belleville's quaint neighborhoods.
  
  
• Pinehaven – E13083 State Highway 33, Baraboo, WI 53913
  Not far from Baraboo, you can enter another world in the rural setting of Pinehaven. Seated in a pine grove that truly redefines "fresh air," it provides you with a wonderful pond and gardens to explore. Catch and release fishing is allowed in the pond with no license required, and birdwatchers love seeing what feathered friends they can spot on the grounds during the spring. It's also convenient to a wide range of trails perfect for a relaxing walk.
  
  
• Inn at Wawanisee Point – E13609 Tower Road, Baraboo, WI 53913
  Inn at Wawanisee Point is a secluded spot seated on 42 acres of wooded land and positioned atop the Baraboo Bluffs. Hailed as a romantic getaway you will never forget, it caters to adults only. It's also a short drive to Devil's Lake State Park, with abundant opportunities for hiking, paddling, and more. The accommodations are steeped in luxury, and the view is unbeatable.
  
  
• Mendota Lake House Inn – 704 East Gorham, Madison, WI 53703
  Mendota Lake House Inn is an arts and crafts inn that has been around since 1911. It sits right on the famous lakeshore near some of Madison's most unique homes for sale. It is known for its convenience to the State Capitol and University of Wisconsin campus. All visitors will have a brilliant view of the lake and enjoy a full continental breakfast each morning.
  
  
• Naeset-Roe Inn – 126 East Washington Street, Stoughton, WI 53589
  Naeset-Roe Inn continues a tradition that dates all the way back to 1878 builder Jens Naeset. This charming inn, noted on the National Register of Historic Places, is a prime example of Victorian architectural flair. Themed guest rooms, each with a private bath, are all located on the second floor. It will whisk you away to an experience of elegance near Stoughton homes for sale.

Contact us to discover more of what Wisconsin has to offer.

Madison foodies rejoice! Some truly amazing restaurants are joining Madison's vibrant culinary scene. Looking to try something new next time you dine out or order takeout? Read on for suggestions on new restaurants and cafes to try.

• Stadium Takeout - 1517 Monroe St, Madison, WI 53711
  Opened in October 2021, Stadium Takeout is already gaining traction thanks to its unpretentious atmosphere and menu packed with tasty Midwestern staples. The restaurant is the brainchild of Don Woods, known around town as Don the Barber—he also owns the barbershop right next door—who has built the menu around Windy City favorites like Italian beef and Chicago hot dogs. Stadium Takeout also makes tasty wings, burgers, and shrimp po'boys. It's a great place to get a hearty meal to go, with a convenient location on Monroe Street, near some of Madison's most charming homes for sale.
  
  
• The Harvey House - 644 W Washington Ave, Madison, WI 53703
  A new restaurant with an old-school ambiance, The Harvey House is a classic supper club with a unique Midwestern twist. A creation of owner Shaina Robbins Papach and co-owner/chef Joe Papach, this eatery made waves well beyond the local restaurant scene when it opened last year and was ranked number eight on Esquire's Best New Restaurants in America 2021 list. Their martinis are served ice-cold, and the pumpernickel-crusted Lake Superior walleye, served with spaetzle, savoy cabbage and horseradish sabayon, is a real highlight of the menu.
  
  
• Taco Local - 811 Williamson St, Madison, WI 53703
  Taco Local opened in April 2021 in the Williamson Street location that was once home to Underground Butcher. Their menu of Latin American street food includes just a handful of items, but each one is dialed into perfection. Tacos, of course, are the stars of the show. The mango braised pork tacos and tequila lime chicken tacos are outstanding. Each taco comes topped with homemade pico de gallo, crema, and cilantro and is served with a side of esquites, a Mexican street corn salad, and red pickled onion.
  
  
• Kettle Black Kitchen - 1835 Monroe St, Madison, WI 53711
  Serving French-inspired American fare in an intimate setting, Kettle Black Kitchen is a cozy new dinner spot on Monroe Street. Owners Brian and Alicia Hamilton started Kettle Black Kitchen as a meal pick-up service before expanding into their new brick-and-mortar location in 2021. With entrees ranging from pan-seared cod to maple braised bone-in pork shank, Kettle Black Kitchen offers reservations up to 30 days in advance but always holds a few tables for walk-ins.
  
  
• Good News Ice Cream - 117 King St, Madison, WI 53703
  A new ice cream shop is always good news, but the opening of Good News Ice Cream was a particularly welcome announcement this past summer. Serving coffee and grab-and-go sandwiches in addition to artisanal, homemade ice cream, the shop is owned and operated by Andy Haker, who also owns Madison's, a beloved craft cocktail bar and brunch hangout right next door. The nine rotating ice cream flavors at Good News range from the classic (vanilla bean, pistachio) to the adventurous (strawberry balsamic, Mexican hot chocolate) but are always satisfying.

Contact us today to learn more about life in Madison and talk to our real estate agents about finding your dream home in Wisconsin.

Middleton is a great backdrop for outdoor adventures throughout all Wisconsin seasons. A Wisconsin favorite, snowshoeing, is a great way to explore the beautiful scenery and snowy landscapes. With the expansive beauty of the Pheasant Branch Conservancy, as well as the purpose-built trails and amenities at the new CXC Outdoor Recreation and Sports Center, you have outstanding options for snowshoeing close to home. Our real estate agents have the info you need to explore snowshoeing trails in Middleton this winter.

Pheasant Branch Conservancy – 4864 Pheasant Branch Rd., Middleton, WI 53562

With 519 acres of wetlands and forests to explore around the scenic Pheasant Branch Creek, the Pheasant Branch Conservancy is a popular destination for outdoor adventures all year long. Buyers interested in Middleton homes for sale often cite these outdoor areas as a great benefit to living near Middleton.

• Variety of Terrain on the Snowshoeing Trail
  Whether you love to explore nature or you're looking for a fun challenge on your next snowshoeing trip, the varying terrain at Pheasant Branch Conservancy makes for a unique experience each time you visit. Changes in elevation allow you to see Middleton from different perspectives, and the mix of wetlands, forest, and groomed trails means that you'll see a variety of natural habitats as you explore.
  
  
• Great Views and Local Wildlife
  Part of the snowshoeing trail at Pheasant Branch Conservancy will lead you up Frederick's Hill, where you will find some of the best views in Middleton. From the top of the hill, you can even see Wisconsin's state capitol! The conservancy also features plenty of local wildlife, so you never know what you might see when you visit.
  
  
• Take Care While Exploring Pheasant Branch Conservancy
  Because Pheasant Branch Conservancy is a protected area, there is always nature conservation work happening in the area. For this reason, it's important to stick to the dedicated trails while snowshoeing in order to avoid interfering with that conservation work.

CXC Outdoor Recreation and Sports Center – 4355 Schwartz Rd., Middleton, WI 53562

A new addition to the Middleton area, which opened in December 2021, the CXC Outdoor Recreation and Sports Center is already drawing rave reviews. This is the perfect place to enjoy some snowshoeing, along with other fun winter activities like cross country skiing and fat-tire biking.

• Outdoor Exploration All Winter Long
  The CXC Outdoor Recreation and Sports Center is open for winter sports from mid-December through the end of March with daily hours from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
  
  
• New Trails and Snowmaking Capability
  This facility features a mix of natural snow trails and trails with snowmaking capability. So even if nature isn't providing snow, you can still enjoy some winter fun on the dedicated snowshoeing trail. Since it's a new facility, new trails are being added regularly.

Before you head out for your next snowshoeing trip, check the trail conditions. The CXC Outdoor Recreation and Sports Center website features daily updates on trail conditions, as well as frequent updates on any new trails. While they aren't dedicated snowshoeing trails, many of the shorter trails at other local parks around Middleton are also open for snowshoeing.

Ready to buy or sell your next home close to all of the Middleton outdoor adventures? We can help you accomplish your real estate goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Middleton, WI area.