Home to the University of Wisconsin's main campus, the picturesque Madison is an eclectic mix of college students, hippies and, of course, sports fans. The heart of it all is State Street, a bustling pedestrian mall filled with shops, bars and restaurants connecting the campus to the Capitol Square. Although the city is a sight to behold any day, during home football games it transforms into a sports fan's dream. Seas of red shirts descend upon Camp Randall Stadium, stopping for games of flip-cup and two-story beer bongs along the way. Even if you don't have tickets to the game, you can still come along for the ride.
Best place to watch the game: State Street Brats (603 State St., 608-255-5544)
Throw on your Badger red, order a pitcher of Miller Lite and learn the words to "On Wisconsin" and you'll fit right in at State Street Brats, a campus staple for decades. For the best view of the game, head upstairs to watch on the huge projectors and other flat-screen TVs scattered throughout this friendly sports bar.
Where to eat before the game: The Old Fashioned (23 N. Pinckney St., 608-310-4545)
A big step up from standard college food, The Old Fashioned prides itself on using local ingredients and upholding Wisconsin's culinary traditions (there is an entire menu dedicated to cheese). For brunch, try the Wisconsin Benedict, Door County Cherry Granola or Walleye and Eggs — the breakfast version of a traditional fish fry.
Where to eat after the game: Ian’s Pizza (319 N. Frances St., 608-257-0597)
Yes, there’s one in Wrigleyville, but you haven't truly experienced Ian's Pizza until you've been to the original location in Madison. UW students flock to Ian's almost on autopilot after the bars close, or when they need to refuel after a long day of tailgating. Get in line and grab your slice of mac 'n cheese, BBQ steak and fries or breaded chicken mashed potato.
Best place to tailgate: Jordan’s Big 10 Pub (1330 Regent St., 608-251-6375)
Most students tailgate outside friends' houses near the stadium, but rather than crash a stranger's party, head to one of the bars on Regent Street to get pumped up for the big game. Jordan's Big 10 turns its parking lot into a beer garden on game days, which fills up hours before kickoff. On a colder day, head inside for shuffleboard, pool and football on the big screens.
Best of the nightlife: Church Key (626 University Ave., 608-259-0444)
This popular bar is notorious for two things: long lines and stiff drinks. Get there before 10 p.m. to beat the rush and order a jack & coke — one of them is more than enough to start feeling buzzed. The two-story bar also offers boots of beer, foosball, darts and free popcorn.
Where to go if you don't care about sports: Karaoke Kid (614 University Ave., 608-294-1997)
The only TVs in this tiny bar are dedicated to song lyrics. The Kid doesn't start hopping until after midnight, but it's always an option when there's a line everywhere else. Pay $1, pick your favorite song and order a sake bomb while you wait for your turn to sing. If you want to score points with Amy (the owner), opt for Simon and Garfunkel's "Cecilia" — it's her favorite.
Follow us throughout the college football season as we highlight the entertainment options at nearby Midwestern schools. And be sure to check out our guide to Chicago tailgating.
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