Articles Tagged "local businesses"

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.

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.

• Olbrich Botanical Gardens - 3330 Atwood Ave., Madison, WI 53704
  With 16 acres containing an incredible assortment of plants and flowers, Olbrich Botanical Gardens is the equivalent of a visual amusement park. Global delights such as the Thai Pavilion, the only one in the continental United States, and the Bolz Conservatory, a 50-foot glass pyramid replicating the vegetation of the tropics, can instantly transport your mindset. Other specialty gardens include the Rose Garden, Sunken Garden, and Herb Garden. Grow your green thumb with classes, workshops, and lectures. Admission to the Conservatory is $6, but the outdoor gardens are free, though donations are gratefully accepted. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Chazen Museum of Art - University of Wisconsin, 750 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706
  Located on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, just blocks away from Lake Mendota, the Chazen Museum of Art is stunning. Its two buildings hold approximately 23,000 pieces, making it the second-largest collection in the state and the largest collecting museum in the Big Ten. Cultures and periods represented include ancient Greece, 18th-century Japan, and modern Africa. The visiting exhibition, Seeing Audubon: Robert Havell, Jr., and the Birds of America, will be on display through the first quarter of 2022. Admission is free to the public. Hours are 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. on weekends.
  
  
• Henry Vilas Zoo - 702 S. Randall Ave., Madison, WI 54715
  A trip to the Henry Vilas Zoo is a treat for "kids" of all ages. The park sits on land donated by Col. William and Anna Vilas in honor of their young son, the zoo's namesake, who died due to complications from diabetes. In an act of further generosity, they stipulated that the land be used for a park that would remain free to the public. Henry Vilas is one of only ten zoos in North America where visitors can see more than 650 animals from around the world for no admission fee. The zoo is open seven days a week from 9:30 - 5 p.m and is a delightful stop in Downtown Madison.
  
  
• Madison Eats Food Tours - Madison, WI
  Our local culinary game is strong. Surprise your senses with Madison Eats Food Tours, which highlight Madison's longtime favorites and trendy new spots. Each tour theme focuses on a specific cuisine or neighborhood, creating an immersive experience. Current tours include Capitol Square Downtown, Atwood Brew & Chew, and Bike n' Bites. For the adventurous diner, Madison Eats also offers international culinary tours to places like Mexico and Belize. Local tours run for approximately three hours. Visit the website for schedule and prices.
  
  
• University of Wisconsin Geology Museum - Weeks Hall, 1215 W. Dayton St., Madison, WI 53706
  Dinosaurs of all shapes and sizes delight visitors of all ages. Spend an educational day disguised as fun with your family at the University of Wisconsin Geology Museum. Exhibits featuring more than 120,000 specimens will take you back to the times when the state was variously covered with ice, water, and volcanoes. Admission is free to the public. Museum hours are 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Saturday.

Making the most of life in Dane County is what Stark agents love to do and what we love to share with our community. For dedicated and knowledgeable help buying or selling a home, contact us at Stark Company Realtors.

Monroe Street is one of Madison's most charming destinations. Nestled in the shadow of legendary venues like Camp Randall Stadium and the UW Field House, Monroe Street has established its own identity through the unique shopping and dining experiences it offers. Nearby residents walk from shop to shop, stop for a warm beverage at a cafe or grab a bite at a one-of-a-kind restaurant. 

If you haven't attended one of the First Fridays on Monroe Street events, now is the time.

We want to help you plan ahead with these First Fridays on Monroe details.

First Fridays on Monroe Street

Location: 1400 – 3600 Monroe St., Madison, WI 53711

Time: First Friday of Every Month*, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
(*Starting again in February 2022)

Admission: Free

• Extended Shopping Hours at Your Favorite Boutique Shops
  During First Fridays, many Monroe Street shops will have extended hours that make it easy to explore these wonderful small businesses. If you've been wanting to check out some of these spots but can't make it during the usual business hours, First Fridays are the perfect time to visit Monroe Street.
  
  
• Delicious Dining at Monroe Street Destinations
  Monroe Street is also home to some of the best restaurants near Madison homes for sale, so it's easy to refuel with some fantastic food in between stops. Whether you're grabbing a sweet treat at Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream, enjoying a great cup of coffee at Crescendo Espresso Bar, settling in for a delicious meal at Marie's Soul Food, or grabbing a drink at the Laurel Tavern, you'll love the variety and charm of the dining destinations on Monroe Street. Be sure to check the menus for specials!
  
  
• Live Music and Pop-Up Shops
  Live outdoor performances are also part of some First Fridays, along with unique pop-up shops that aren't available at any other time. You never know what you might find on First Fridays, which is part of the fun.
  
  
• Something New Every First Friday
  No two First Fridays celebrations are the same. Different shops and restaurants participate every month, so there's always something new to see. Mix in the live performances, pop-up shops, and other fun surprises and it's easy to see why so many people return for every First Friday on Monroe Street.
  
  
• More Events to Enjoy on Monroe Street All Year Long
  Along with First Fridays, Monroe Street offers a variety of other festive events throughout the year. Holiday Glow on Monroe is a must-see during the holiday season, with carolers, great shopping, and live holiday music. The Monroe Street Festival happens every summer, with live music, fun, educational classes, fabulous food, and plenty of kid-friendly attractions. No matter the season, there's always something to see on Monroe Street.

Searching for a home that makes it easy to visit and enjoy Monroe Street? Let our local real estate team help. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Madison, WI area.

Madison, WI is one of the top 30 happiest cities in America, according to a poll conducted by USA Today. Madison's residents know that Dane County is a happy, welcoming place to call home and we consider Madison's vibrant downtown one of the biggest attractions. Wondering why Downtown Madison is so highly rated? We have some fun facts about Downtown Madison to help you live the life you want in our charming small big city.

• Downtown Madison Knows Lake Vibes & Waterfront Views
  Who says you need to live on the coast to enjoy a waterfront lifestyle? Downtown Madison is framed by two large lakes, which provide scenic views and endless opportunities for outdoor fun. Lake Mendota and Lake Monona sit on both sides of Downtown Madison, forming what we call our Isthmus. There are a total of five lakes located near Madison area homes for sale, along with multiple nature preserves, so you'll always have somewhere new to explore.
  
  
• Hundreds of Miles of Trails Connect the Community
  Known as the bike capital of the Midwest, Madison is connected by over 200 miles of trails perfect for biking, hiking, and navigating the city without having to drive. Use your own bike, or grab one anytime from one of the many bike-sharing stations located around the city. Since many of Downtown Madison's attractions are located within a radius of a couple of miles, walking is also a great way to see the city.
  
  
• Living Local is Easy on State Street
  Speaking of walking and biking, Downtown Madison's State Street is a great place to get those steps in and explore small businesses. The stretch of State Street that runs from the UW campus to the Wisconsin State Capitol is a pedestrian-friendly haven, home to some of Madison's favorite local shops and restaurants. Grab a meal, see a show or score a one-of-a-kind find all within a few blocks.
  
  
• Everyone is an Honorary Badger at the University of Wisconsin-Madison
  The University of Wisconsin-Madison campus has been a local institution for more than 150 years, featuring a variety of attractions that both residents and visitors love. A concept called the Wisconsin Idea ensures that the university is meant to benefit the entire state. The University of Wisconsin Arboretum and the Allen Centennial Gardens are showstoppers for nature lovers and moving here will quickly turn you into a UW Badgers fan, with fantastic football games at Camp Randall Stadium.
  
  
• Family Fun in Downtown Madison
  Downtown adventures aren't just for adults. The Madison Children's Museum is filled with interactive exhibits that kids love, along with a busy schedule of special events. People of all ages will love visiting the Henry Vilas Zoo, which offers free admission and many indoor and outdoor attractions, located on the shores of Lake Wingra.

Are you considering relocating to one of America's happiest cities? Our local real estate team can help. Contact Stark to learn more about how we can help you move to the life you want in the Madison, WI area.

We can all agree that Wisconsin knows how to do cheese. So, are you looking for that signature squeak? Or recommendations on the best dipping sauces? Read below to add some flavor and fun to your day with cheese curds from these must-try Dane County hotspots.

• Great Dane Pub & Brewing - 123 E. Doty St., Madison, WI 53703
  College buddies Eliot Butler and Rob LoBreglio were ahead of the craft beer curve when they opened Great Dane Pub & Brewing in the mid-90s. More than a quarter-century later, people around Madison are still enjoying the casual atmosphere and quality brews. Great Dane's Old Glory cheese curds are coated in batter, infused with their American Pale Ale and served with a side of roasted Hatch chili ranch for dipping. Hours are 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily except Friday and Saturday when doors are open until 1 a.m.
  
  
• Babcock Dairy Store - 1605 Linden Dr., Madison, WI 53706
  Cheese and ice cream from Babcock Dairy Store are a staple of life at UW-Madison. Fortunately, the shop's delicious products are available to everyone. In addition to 23 flavors of cheese, the store offers freshly-made breakfast and lunch sandwiches for curbside pickup. All proceeds go toward the UW's Food Science Department. Babcock Dairy Store is open weekdays from 7:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. and weekends from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
  
  
• The Old Fashioned - 27 North Pinckney St., Madison, WI 53703
  This might go without saying, but you haven't lived your best Wisconsin life if you haven't had cheese curds at the Old Fashioned. Want to enjoy your cheese curds with a side of stunning views of the Madison area? This is your place! Plus, there are plenty of dipping sauces for you to pair with their delicious beer-battered cheese curds. Stop by between  4 - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Or visit on the weekend when their hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m on Friday and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday.
  
  
• Wisconsin Cheese Mart - 119 State St., Madison, WI 53703
  In 1938, Wisconsin Cheese Mart was a quaint little shop on Old World Third Street, in Milwaukee. What's not to love about their mission: "To celebrate the cheesemakers' craft, showcase their hard work and innovation, and serve cheese fanatics everywhere the best of what Wisconsin has to offer." Cheese curds are available in yellow Cheddar, white Cheddar, and combo packs and shipping is an option. Hours are 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
  
  
• Fromagination - 14 W. Mifflin St., Suite 212, Madison, WI 53703
  Fromagination's name is a play on "Fromage," which is the French word for cheese. This serves as a nod to the artisan nature of cheese-making in Wisconsin and an appreciation of all the people involved. Their Cedar Grove cheese curds come in original Cheddar flavor or spiced up with garlic and dill. You can also purchase a bag of cheese curd batter mix or receive one free with four bags of cheese curds. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

Want to learn more about the benefits of living in Dane County or Madison area homes for sale? Contact us and talk to an expert on both the local real estate market and how to make the most of life in Wisconsin.

Whether you're browsing Madison homes for sale, or looking to score some unique finds for VIPs on your holiday shopping list, our real estate agents have a helpful suggestion or two.

Visit home-grown brands around Dane County, and you'll get to support small businesses while snagging gifts you can't find anywhere else. It's worth the adventure, you may find a new favorite place and you'll knock those hard-to-shop-for relatives off your list.

Stop by these local businesses to discover gifts that will delight your friends & families and give them a piece of our beloved Dane County community:

• Madison Chocolate Co. – 729 Glenway St., Madison, WI 53711
  Madison Chocolate Co. has an array of delectable delicacies. You can even order with local delivery. Most visitors start with the dedicated gluten-free cafe, featuring scones, apple cider donuts, and pain au chocolat. Gift boxes at the in-house chocolatier include the mixed truffle and caramel box. Make time to savor the Weekend Waffles brunch offerings, too!
  
  
• Tradition Market – 1821 Parmenter St., Middleton, WI 53562
  Tradition Market is divided into two showrooms for women's and children's attire, connected by an inside walkway. Gift cards are available for all your last-minute shopping needs but don't pass up the chance to explore the selection in person. Private appointments are available, and if you don't have time to make the trip, you can even set up a virtual viewing time using Zoom or FaceTime.
  
  
• National Mustard Museum – 7477 Hubbard Ave., Middleton, WI 53562
  Established in 1986 near Middleton homes for sale, National Mustard Museum will delight you with the untold story of one of America's favorite condiments. And, of course, you can also purchase a gift box of gourmet mustards with hand-picked treats from all over the United States.
  
  
• Wisconsin Candle Company – 119 W. Main St., Waunakee, WI 53597
  Wisconsin Candle Company showcases handcrafted candles especially suited to the needs of people with asthma and scent sensitivities. All products are made from 100% soy wax with no additives, and the fragrance oils are 100% free of parabens and phthalates. If you've been browsing Waunakee homes for sale, you might recognize the theme of these inspired assortments, like "Life on the Lakes" or "Hygge Home," then get free shipping on any order over $75!
  
  
• Rust & Lace Collectibles and Antiques – Various Locations
  Rust & Lace Collectibles and Antiques is the kind of quaint local store you'll want to go back to again and again because there's always something new. A regular attendee of local events like the Vendor Night Market and the Fall Village Market, Rust & Lace offers housewares, antiques, collectibles, clothing, art, and all sorts of fascinating treasures that defy description. 

Contact Stark Company Realtors to find out more about real estate in Dane County.