It’s my favorite time of year: Memorial Day weekend! I consider it the de facto start of summer. If you’re like me, you can’t wait for warmer temperatures, (hopefully) less rain and hanging out poolside.

For those who aren’t sticking around town for backyard BBQs, Brat Fest or other local Memorial Day celebrations, here is a curated list of events, restaurants and activities within a two-hour drive of Madison, Wis. (updated for 2026).

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