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Top 24 Hotels Near Kohl Center
601 W Dayton St Madison, WI 53715
DoubleTree by Hilton Madison Downtown
The value of a easy walk to Kohl Center makes DoubleTree by Hilton Madison Downtown a sensible base of operations before the main experience unfolds.
Guests using the Hilton Honors app can unlock rooms with Digital Key at DoubleTree, skipping the desk and saving valuable arrival time. Suites with expanded living spaces allow groups to spread out comfortably, balancing privacy with collective comfort. Lobby lounges connect to bars with communal tables, creating orientation hubs where travelers socialize comfortably before rooms.
Valet parking, EV stalls, airport shuttle, Wi-Fi, and transport guidance remove guesswork, giving travelers dependable, stress-light transitions.
Hampton Inn & Suites Madison / Downtown
A significant perk of staying at Hampton Inn & Suites Madison / Downtown in Madison is the brief walk to Kohl Center, making the hotel feel both connected and pleasantly separate.
Coffee and tea stations available around the clock at Hampton Inn highlight reliable courtesy, softening the transition from travel to rest. Suites feature sofa beds, televisions, and lounge seating, providing flexible spaces where families can relax comfortably after long days. Lobby seating clusters with sofas, chairs, and tables provide regrouping areas, letting families rest comfortably upon arrival.
Complimentary internet, breakfast bags, fitness rooms, business lounges, and self-parking simplify travel while keeping routines steady.
Hilton Garden Inn Madison Downtown
The journey from Hilton Garden Inn Madison Downtown to Kohl Center is a simple stroll, an advantage that contributes to a cohesive and convenient visit.
The Pavilion Pantry inside Hilton Garden Inn offers 24-hour snacks and beverages, giving guests reliable convenience right at reception. Suites feature sofa beds, televisions, and armchairs, creating flexible living areas that balance rest, leisure, and family convenience. Lobbies with community tables, sofa clusters, and bar service act as welcoming hubs that support relaxed connection among travelers.
Pet-friendly policies, hot breakfast, fitness studios, Wi-Fi connectivity, and outdoor pools provide flexibility that fits diverse needs.
Graduate by Hilton Madison
This practical walk to Kohl Center from Graduate by Hilton Madison is a defining component, because it ensures a visit free of traffic concerns.
At Hilton, community seating and casual lounges encourage conversation, making lobbies natural hubs for comfort and social connection. Each guest room delivers ergonomic seating, spacious desks, and strong Wi-Fi, giving professionals consistent setups for productivity. Guests at the outdoor pool enjoy loungers, fresh towels, and shaded seating, creating dependable spaces for relaxation and recharge.
Free Wi-Fi, breakfast buffets, fitness centers, and indoor pools combine to provide convenience and comfort that support balanced stays.
Hyatt Place Madison Downtown
The hotel's spot a quick trip from Kohl Center gives Hyatt Place Madison Downtown guests choices in how they plan their local travel.
Communal tables with comfortable seating in Hyatt Place lobbies create natural hubs for guests to connect before moving to guest rooms. Guest rooms contain coffee makers, blackout curtains, and bedside outlets, allowing travelers to recharge routines and devices easily. Meeting spaces with breakout areas, board tables, and AV equipment give professionals flexible tools to coordinate effectively.
Breakfast service, laundry access, and Wi-Fi combine with fitness centers and business lounges, easing both professional and personal stays.
Best Western Premier Park Hotel
From the moment you arrive at Best Western Premier Park Hotel, Kohl Center is a short ride for a simple commute, making for an easy start.
At the threshold, Best Western keeps doors covered and mats placed, smoothing curb-to-lobby movement when weather or luggage would slow pace. Each guest room often places a multi-device charging shelf near seating, letting companions sync phones while confirming reservations together. The lobby lounge softens acoustics with lighting and décor, turning a busy center into a relaxed orientation point for newcomers.
From vending or pantry markets, Wi-Fi, and laundry to parking, practical touchpoints keep late arrivals and early departures running smoothly.
The Madison Concourse Hotel and Governors Club
Because The Madison Concourse Hotel and Governors Club is a quick ride from Kohl Center, guests can decide on the travel method that best suits their needs.
The Madison Concourse Hotel and Governors Club may provide arrivals with cozy interiors, boutique check-in, and complimentary artisanal coffee or tea service. Rooms often highlight artisanal décor, premium bedding, and curated minibars that frame a creative boutique-style guest retreat. Shared spaces may feature curated art, intimate bars, and eclectic seating areas that emphasize boutique individuality and style.
Accommodations may include Wi-Fi, bike rentals, laundry facilities, and artisanal breakfast, supporting consistency across boutique visits.
The Edgewater
The benefit of a quick drive to Kohl Center renders The Edgewater into a starting point for a day of easy transitions.
The Edgewater often greets guests with polished interiors, courteous staff, and refined seating that establish a sophisticated welcome. Guest rooms typically feature refined décor, plush linens, and bathrooms with spa-inspired finishes for a comfortable and elegant retreat. Amenities may include refined restaurants, polished cocktail lounges, and fitness centers that reinforce an upscale guest experience.
Accommodations often highlight refined dining, wellness spaces, EV stations, and Wi-Fi, shaping a balanced lifestyle for diverse routines.
Mansion Hill Inn
Reaching Kohl Center from Mansion Hill Inn is a simple drive, a feature that weaves ease into the start of any day.
Arrivals at Mansion Hill Inn typically showcase professional luggage assistance, elegant décor, and polished reception for a luxury introduction. Accommodations may present stylish layouts, premium bedding, and minibars that provide added convenience for a refined guest experience. Shared spaces often provide stylish public areas, full-service dining, and wellness facilities that emphasize refined hospitality.
A stay may include premium bedding, spa-style facilities, cocktail bars, and Wi-Fi, offering a rhythm that blends indulgence and ease.
Hilton Madison Monona Terrace
The hotel's location is ideal for motorists, with Kohl Center a quick drive away, allowing for easy coordination of travel and parking.
Hilton reinforces attentiveness through evening beverage service, showing care that creates rituals easing the shift from travel. Every suite incorporates rainfall showers, stocked toiletries, and marble counters, ensuring relaxation and comfort each evening. At the lobby bar, cocktails, soft lighting, and casual bites combine to make evenings feel social, comfortable, and consistently inviting.
With on-site dining, valet parking, meeting spaces, and pet-friendly policies, Hilton ensures flexibility that meets varied traveler needs.
AC Hotel by Marriott Madison Downtown
For a trip where a simple car ride is essential, AC Hotel by Marriott Madison Downtown is a simple drive from Kohl Center, making it a logical hub for any itinerary.
AC Hotels greets arrivals with minimalist lobbies featuring sleek finishes and curated art, creating refined impressions that feel calm and modern. Guest rooms include ergonomic chairs, strong Wi-Fi, and bright desks, supporting continuity for professionals who need reliable workspaces. Lobbies emphasize curated artwork, comfortable seating, and modern décor, offering dependable orientation and calm first impressions for arrivals.
Guests enjoy AC Kitchen fruit, AC Lounge cocktails, complimentary Wi-Fi, and business tools, creating structured routines that feel reliable.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Madison Downtown
When your visit to Madison is anchored by Kohl Center, Embassy Suites by Hilton Madison Downtown's location a straightforward drive away allows for a seamless daily plan.
Hydration stations near seating areas in Embassy Suites lobbies let guests refresh immediately, showing care that smooths the transition from travel. Each guest room comes with televisions, streaming access, and premium sound, giving travelers easy entertainment at day’s end. Atrium lounges blending natural light, sofa clusters, and open layouts produce communal areas that encourage guests to socialize comfortably.
Fitness centers, complimentary breakfast, EV charging, meeting rooms, and Wi-Fi access align comfort with work-life balance easily.
The Dylin by Mint House
At The Dylin by Mint House, being a straightforward drive from Kohl Center ensures a speedy commute for business travelers, enhancing the visit.
A welcoming policy for pets at Mint House properties is a major convenience, making the arrival feel inclusive for the entire family. Apartments feature a full gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances, including an oven, a dishwasher, and a full-size refrigerator. Many properties feature premium pet-friendly amenities like dedicated dog runs or pet spas, making the stay comfortable for furry companions.
A thoughtful mix of a full kitchen, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and a pet-friendly policy enhances the comfort of any visit.
Hotel Indigo Madison Downtown by IHG
In Madison, Hotel Indigo Madison Downtown by IHG has a easy-transit location to Kohl Center, letting guests move at their own pace before their stay begins.
Eclectic seating clusters across Hotel Indigo lobbies include lounge chairs and long tables, creating versatile hubs for guests. All guest rooms present plush bedding, blackout curtains, and climate systems, ensuring consistent comfort during nightly rest. Meeting spaces with projection screens, breakout tables, and flexible layouts make it easy for groups to organize and collaborate.
Meeting facilities, reliable Wi-Fi, and breakfast service combine with parking and laundry, giving guests predictable daily balance.
Best Western Plus InnTowner Madison
From Best Western Plus InnTowner Madison, the short drive to Kohl Center is a core benefit before the day begins.
Best Western positions a lobby market near reception, letting guests secure drinks and snacks before keycards are issued and elevators are taken. All guest rooms may offer ADA-aligned features where booked—grab bars, visual alerts, or roll-in layouts—supporting confident accessibility. Guest laundries place detergent vending beside machines, ensuring cycles start quickly so gear is ready for the next segment of travel.
Between meeting rooms, Wi-Fi, and lobby bars or cafés where present, travelers balance coordination and short social pauses on site.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Madison Central by IHG
In Madison, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Madison Central by IHG provides a location that is an easy drive from Kohl Center, letting the stay begin on a positive and convenient note.
Lobby seating clusters at Holiday Inn Express provide comfortable regrouping points for families or colleagues meeting after check-in. Suites include sofa beds, lounge seating, and expanded floor space, creating flexible setups ideal for families or group travel. Breakfast rooms stocked with cereals, fruit, and coffee ensure families and professionals enjoy straightforward morning routines.
Free breakfast, indoor pools, and Wi-Fi pair with laundry and self-parking, providing dependable amenities that simplify travel.
Madison Marriott South
Guests at Madison Marriott South can appreciate being a straightforward drive from Kohl Center, a perk that allows for a more organic and flexible schedule.
Marriott reception areas are consistently bright and symmetrical, helping guests orient themselves quickly and avoid arrival confusion. Each guest room offers a flat-screen TV, digital thermostat, and blackout curtains, letting travelers relax comfortably at day’s end. The breakfast area combines hot buffets, pastries, and coffee stations, helping travelers begin their day with clarity and consistency.
Business centers, reliable Wi-Fi, and flexible meeting rooms align with pools and fitness areas, supporting productivity and relaxation together.
Spark by Hilton Madison Central
When your trip to Madison involves driving to Kohl Center, Spark by Hilton Madison Central's location a straightforward drive away makes the drive a simple task.
Guests visiting Hilton encounter polished marble floors, chandeliers, and bright finishes, producing reliable first impressions daily. Guest rooms feature coffee makers, blackout curtains, and plush bedding, making routines comfortable and mornings stress-free daily. In the business center, computers, printers, and reliable Wi-Fi support professionals who need productivity tools during their stay.
Amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, business centers, and laundry services help maintain productivity and ease daily.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Madison Central Alliant Energy Center
In Madison, Home2 Suites by Hilton Madison Central Alliant Energy Center is situated an easy drive from Kohl Center, which ensures a simple commute.
With pet-friendly welcome touches at reception, Home2 Suites shows care for families traveling with animals, easing arrivals smoothly. Each guest room offers coffee makers, smart TVs, and USB hubs, giving travelers entertainment and convenience throughout visits. The outdoor patio with grills, picnic seating, and loungers creates casual spaces where families or teams can connect while dining.
Guests benefit from laundry access, outdoor grills, fitness centers, and Wi-Fi, maintaining daily balance with consistent reliability.
Valued Stay Mayflower
Kohl Center is a simple drive from Valued Stay Mayflower, a detail that allows for confident planning and easy journeys.
Arrivals at Valued Stay Mayflower may highlight a no-frills reception, available parking, and vending services that reflect budget practicality. Accommodations may highlight compact layouts, ergonomic seating, and Wi-Fi, supporting comfort and productivity for each guest routine. Public areas may present breakfast spaces, vending access, and modest seating zones that sustain clarity and convenience across stays.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, vending access, guest laundry, and continental breakfast, reinforcing functional ease in budget settings.
Super 8 by Wyndham Madison South
This accessible commute to Kohl Center enables Super 8 by Wyndham Madison South to offer a blend of convenience and calm before the stay unfolds.
Reception areas at Super 8 are supported by bright finishes and symmetry, making arrival experiences predictable and stress-free. Guest rooms supply ergonomic chairs, large desks, and Wi-Fi, letting professionals remain productive while away from their offices. Vending and market areas offering cold drinks, snacks, and packaged meals make routines simple and consistent for travelers daily.
Free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly rooms, and breakfast service align with parking and laundry, giving travelers clarity across longer visits.
Baymont Inn & Suites by Wyndham Madison
At Baymont Inn & Suites by Wyndham Madison, being an easy drive from Kohl Center is a core element that supports a flexible and relaxed visit.
Where lobby coffee is available, Baymont supplies cups, lids, and condiments nearby, keeping brief resets organized and quick. Double-queen rooms balance sleep capacity and pathways with clustered outlets, making multi-device charging simple for shared stays. Corridors mark exits, ice machines, and elevator banks at intervals, guiding movement through unfamiliar floors without confusion.
Free Wi-Fi, breakfast choices, and a market link with vending and ice, turning quick stops into tidy one-pass errands indoors.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Madison
This easy drive to Kohl Center allows SpringHill Suites by Marriott Madison to serve as a calm starting point before a quick trip to the event.
Every lobby includes clear reception sightlines, modern chairs, and natural décor at SpringHill Suites, helping arrivals feel oriented and at ease. Every suite contains microwaves, fridges, and coffee machines, giving travelers control over meals and beverages to simplify extended stays. The indoor pool features fresh towels, ample lounge chairs, and bright lighting, creating a relaxing retreat that supports balance and recovery.
Amenities include indoor pools, breakfast with quality coffee, 24/7 Market access, and self-parking, ensuring stays remain convenient and clear.
avid hotels Madison - Monona by IHG
For travelers who appreciate a direct route, avid hotels Madison - Monona by IHG is an easy drive from Kohl Center, making for a low-stress trip.
avid hotels Madison - Monona by IHG often presents straightforward check-in, accessible parking, and a modest lobby with self-serve coffee for quick arrivals. Rooms often include rainfall showers, hardwood accents, and modest seating, reinforcing a practical yet stylish guest environment. Shared spaces often feature vending areas, laundry facilities, and compact lobbies that reinforce practical guest routines each day.
A stay often features Wi-Fi, coin-operated laundry, parking, and compact breakfast spaces, sustaining practical travel routines for guests.
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Kohl Center Local Area Guide
Welcome to the Kohl Center, a premier destination for major sporting events and entertainment in Madison, Wisconsin. This guide is designed for attendees, students, alumni, and visiting supporters looking to navigate the venue and its surroundings. You'll find practical advice on arrival, in-venue logistics, dining, and nearby attractions to help you make the most of your game day or event experience.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Kohl Center (Madison, WI)
The Kohl Center is prominently situated in the heart of Madison, Wisconsin, adjacent to the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus. It’s easily accessible via major thoroughfares like University Avenue and West Dayton Street. While downtown Madison offers ample parking garages, and specific event lots are designated around the Kohl Center, expect traffic congestion, especially during peak event times. The nearest airport is Dane County Regional Airport (MSN), located about a 15–20 minute drive northeast of the venue, depending on traffic. Public transportation options are robust, with numerous Metro Transit bus routes serving the downtown and campus areas, offering convenient access to and from the Kohl Center. For those arriving by car, planning to arrive at least 60 to 90 minutes before an event is highly recommended to account for parking searches and potential queues. Rideshare services are also a popular option, with designated drop-off and pick-up zones typically established for major events.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Kohl Center
The Kohl Center is surrounded by a dense array of lodging options, primarily concentrated in the downtown Madison area and along the University Avenue corridor. Many hotels are within a short walking distance, placing attendees directly in the midst of the downtown entertainment and dining scene. Another significant cluster of hotels is located a bit further out, requiring a short drive or bus ride, but often offering more competitive rates. Groups attending major events like Badger hockey or basketball games often choose accommodations that allow easy walkability to the arena or provide quick shuttle services. Booking accommodations well in advance is crucial, particularly during significant sporting seasons, graduation weekends, or major concert dates, as hotels can fill up rapidly. Utilizing map filters to identify properties near the venue or along direct transit lines can help streamline your search for the perfect stay.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) is about a 15-20 minute drive from the venue.
- Arrive 60-90 minutes early to navigate parking and potential event queues effectively.
- State Street offers a lively, walkable district with shops, restaurants, and bars.
- The Chazen Museum of Art provides a cultured indoor escape for unpredictable weather.
- The Capitol Square area is a popular spot for pre- and post-event group meetups.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Aim to arrive at the Kohl Center at least 60 to 90 minutes before your event's scheduled start time. This buffer allows ample time for parking, navigating entry protocols, and finding your seats without feeling rushed. Consider pre-event dining or drinks in the nearby downtown area or the University Avenue corridor to enhance your experience and spread out your arrival. Familiarize yourself with the venue's clear bag policy and prohibited items beforehand to ensure a smooth entry process. Upon arrival, proceed directly to your gate, and take a moment to get your bearings with the concourse layout and amenities.
During the Event
Once inside, familiarize yourself with the concourse layout, including the locations of restrooms, concession stands, and guest services. Badger hockey and basketball games are fast-paced, so be mindful of when to leave your seat for concessions or restroom breaks to avoid missing key action. The arena offers a variety of food and beverage options, from classic arena fare to local Madison favorites. If you have any issues or need assistance during the game, don't hesitate to seek out event staff or visit guest services for prompt support. Enjoy the electric atmosphere and cheer on your team or performer!
Post-Event & Departure
Things to Do Near Kohl Center
Walkable
University of Wisconsin-Madison Campus
Explore the historic heart of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, directly adjacent to the Kohl Center. Wander through iconic landmarks like Bascom Hall, stroll across the scenic Lakeshore Path offering stunning views of Lake Mendota, and discover the various academic buildings that comprise this vibrant campus environment. You can catch a glimpse of student life, admire the architecture, and experience the energy of a major public university. It’s an excellent area for a pre- or post-event walk to soak in the local atmosphere.
601 W Dayton St · On siteMonona Terrace Community and Convention Center
Designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright, Monona Terrace offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Monona and the Madison skyline. This architectural marvel hosts numerous events, but its public spaces, including the rooftop garden and promenades, are accessible for visitors to enjoy. Take a leisurely stroll, admire the unique design, and capture some memorable photos. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful escape and a different perspective on the city, just a short walk from the arena.
1 John Nolen Dr · 0.8 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Wisconsin State Capitol Building
Discover the grandeur of the Wisconsin State Capitol, an impressive architectural landmark offering free public tours. Admire the stunning rotunda, explore the legislative chambers, and learn about the state's history and governance. The surrounding Capitol Square is a hub of activity, especially on market days, and provides a central point for understanding Madison's civic life. It’s a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts and offers a glimpse into Wisconsin’s state government.
2 E Main St · 0.7 miState Street
Connecting the Capitol Square to the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, State Street is Madison's vibrant pedestrian mall. It's lined with an eclectic mix of unique boutiques, bookstores, art galleries, cafes, and diverse restaurants. It's the perfect place to wander, shop for souvenirs, grab a bite to eat, or simply people-watch. The street buzzes with energy, reflecting Madison's creative and student-centric culture, making it a central gathering place before or after events.
State Street · 0.5 miBeyond the Event: Explore further into downtown Madison to discover the Overture Center for the Arts, hosting a variety of performing arts, or delve into the exhibits at the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. The area offers a rich cultural tapestry, ensuring there’s always something new to experience beyond the immediate vicinity of the Kohl Center.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Kohl Center
Inside & Adjacent
Kohl Center Concessions
Located directly within the Kohl Center, this is your go-to for convenient food and drinks during any event. Offering a range of classic arena favorites like hot dogs, nachos, and popcorn, alongside local craft beers and sodas, it ensures you won’t miss any of the action while grabbing a bite. Several concession stands are spread throughout the concourse, making it easy to find refreshments for everyone in your group. It’s the quickest option when you need a snack or a meal without leaving the venue.
601 W Dayton St · On siteThe Old Fashioned
This popular Madison establishment celebrates Wisconsin's culinary heritage, focusing on classic dishes and an extensive selection of regional beers and spirits. Known for its lively atmosphere and commitment to local ingredients, it's a perfect spot for groups looking to experience authentic Wisconsin fare. Enjoy their famous fish fry on Fridays or explore their menu of burgers, cheese curds, and supper club favorites. It’s a quintessential Madison dining experience just a short walk away.
23 N Pinckney St · 0.7 miNearby Gathering Spots
Dotty Dumpling's Dowry
A Madison institution for over 50 years, Dotty Dumpling's Dowry is renowned for its award-winning burgers. With a casual, comfortable atmosphere and a vast menu featuring creative burger combinations and traditional favorites, it's a beloved spot for students, locals, and visitors alike. Whether you're craving a classic cheeseburger or something more adventurous, this diner offers a satisfying meal in a friendly setting, perfect for a pre- or post-event bite.
317 N Frances St · 0.6 miSalvatore's Tomato Pies
Offering authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven, Salvatore's Tomato Pies provides a delicious and vibrant dining experience. This spot is ideal for groups seeking a casual yet high-quality meal, featuring a creative array of specialty pizzas, salads, and appetizers. Their lively ambiance and commitment to fresh, quality ingredients make it a popular choice for a satisfying meal before heading to the Kohl Center or winding down after an event.
121 W Main St · 0.6 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Tornado Steak House
Step into the classic supper club atmosphere at Tornado Steak House, a Madison favorite known for its prime rib, steaks, and vintage cocktails. This spot offers a slightly more upscale, nostalgic dining experience, perfect for a special occasion or a more refined meal. Enjoy their classic menu in a dimly lit, wood-paneled setting, which provides a cozy and memorable backdrop for enjoying traditional American cuisine. It's a beloved local spot for those seeking a taste of old-school Madison charm.
1120 Waunona Way · 1.0 miHa Long Bay
Ha Long Bay offers a fresh and vibrant take on Vietnamese cuisine, specializing in pho, banh mi, and other traditional dishes. Its location on State Street makes it a convenient stop before or after an event, and its bright, modern atmosphere provides a welcoming space. Perfect for those looking for lighter, flavorful options, the menu features authentic spices and ingredients, making it a refreshing choice for lunch or dinner. It's a great way to experience a different culinary tradition in the heart of Madison.
130 State St · 0.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Madison's downtown and campus areas can experience significant pedestrian traffic on event nights, so be aware of your surroundings.
- Weekends, especially during Badger hockey and basketball seasons, see the highest demand for hotels and dining, book accordingly.
- Parking availability can vary; consider utilizing parking apps or official venue information for guidance.
- Public transit is a reliable and often faster alternative to driving and parking for many events.
- State Street can be very crowded on event days; plan for leisurely exploration rather than quick stops.
Weather & Seasons at Kohl Center
- Winter: Winter in Madison is cold, with average temperatures frequently below freezing. Visitors should expect snow and ice, requiring warm, waterproof clothing, hats, gloves, and sturdy, insulated footwear. Layering is essential for comfort when moving between the warm arena and the chilly outdoors. Driving and walking can be slower due to slick conditions, so plan for extra travel time.
- Spring & early summer: Spring brings a welcome thaw and gradually warming temperatures, though evenings can still be cool. Light jackets or sweaters are advisable. By early summer, conditions become warmer and more humid, perfect for exploring the city on foot. Pack comfortable walking shoes and lighter layers, but be prepared for occasional spring showers with a compact umbrella.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer in Madison is typically warm to hot and often humid, with daytime temperatures frequently in the 80s Fahrenheit. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are useful for any outdoor activities before or after an event. While most events are indoors, the heat can make the walk from parking or transit more noticeable.
- Fall season: Fall offers crisp air and moderate temperatures, making it an ideal time to visit. Days are pleasant for walking, but evenings can turn chilly, especially into October and November. A jacket or sweater is a good addition to your packing list. The vibrant fall foliage around the UW campus and the Capitol Square adds to the scenic beauty of the city.
- Rain & snow: Madison experiences both rain and snow, particularly from late fall through early spring. Be prepared for wet conditions by packing a waterproof jacket and umbrella. Snowfall can impact travel, potentially causing delays in flights and making driving conditions more challenging; allow ample extra time for journeys to and from the Kohl Center. Indoor activities are a great alternative when weather is severe.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Wisconsin Badgers (Hockey, Basketball)
- Neighborhood: Near University of Wisconsin-Madison campus
- Nearest airport: Dane County Regional Airport (MSN)
- Parking: Multiple lots and garages, can be congested
- Walkable district: Downtown Madison and UW Campus
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Walgreens and CVS on State Street
- Pharmacy: Walgreens and CVS on State Street
- Urgent care: UW Health Urgent Care on University Ave
- Downtime: Monona Terrace, State Street cafes, parks
- Pro tip: Check the Kohl Center website for event-specific parking and entry information.

