Best Bars & Nightlife in Madison, Wisconsin, United States
1. The Great Dane Pub & Brewing Company
A popular brewpub offering house-made beer and creative American fare, known for its live music events.
- Live Music Venue: Features local and national acts in a variety of genres
- In-house Brewery: Offers a rotating selection of house-brewed beers
- Community Gathering Spot: A beloved meeting place for Madison residents and visitors alike
2. The Cardinal Bar
Intimate dive bar with a strong focus on craft cocktails and an extensive selection of whiskeys.
- Craft Cocktails: Creates unique and well-crafted cocktails using quality ingredients
- Whiskey Selection: Boasts an impressive collection of whiskeys from around the world
- Intimate Atmosphere: A cozy and inviting setting that encourages socializing and relaxation
3. The Frequency
Small music venue with a focus on local artists, hosting live shows almost every night of the week.
- Local Music Scene: Supports and promotes Madison's vibrant local music community
- Affordable Cover Charge: Offers a budget-friendly option for experiencing live music
- Multiple Spaces: Features both an indoor and outdoor venue for different experiences
4. State Street Brats & Booze
A lively bar serving bratwurst, beer, and arcade games on the bustling State Street.
- Arcade Games: Provides a fun and nostalgic activity for all ages
- Convenient Location: Located in the heart of downtown Madison, near many other attractions
- Student-friendly Prices: Affordable menu and drink options popular among UW students
5. The Harmony Bar
Lesbian-owned and operated bar offering a welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQ+ patrons.
- Safe Space: Provides a safe, inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community
- Live Music and Karaoke: Offers live music events and karaoke nights throughout the week
- Community Hub: Serves as a gathering place for local LGBTQ+ organizations and events
6. Tip Top Tavern
A classic Madison tavern with pool tables, dart boards, and a welcoming neighborhood vibe.
- Pool & Darts: Features multiple pool tables and dart boards for casual games
- Friendly Staff: Known for its friendly, welcoming bartenders and servers
- Neighborhood Bar: A longstanding establishment in the Monona Bay neighborhood
7. The Rigby
Upscale cocktail bar with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and craftsmanship.
- Craft Cocktails: Creates expertly crafted, artisanal cocktails using local ingredients
- Cozy Atmosphere: Features a warm, intimate setting with vintage decor
- Speakeasy-style: Hidden behind a bookshelf in a nondescript office building
8. The High Noon Saloon
A large music venue with multiple stages, hosting national acts and local favorites.
- Multiple Stages: Allows for a variety of musical styles and genres
- Capacious Space: Accommodates large crowds, making it popular for larger events
- Diverse Lineup: Books a wide range of artists from various genres
9. The Wisconsin Brewing Company
A production brewery with a taproom offering a variety of craft beers.
- In-house Brewery: Brews and serves its own selection of high-quality, handcrafted beers
- Taproom Tours: Offers informative tours for visitors to learn about the brewing process
- Community Events: Hosts events and collaborations with local businesses and organizations
10. One-Twenty Six Kitchen & Bar
A farm-to-table restaurant and bar with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
- Farm-to-Table Cuisine: Utilizes fresh, local produce and meats in its dishes
- Creative Cocktails: Offers unique, seasonal cocktails made with house-made ingredients
- Elevated Atmosphere: Features a sophisticated, upscale ambiance for special occasions
11. The Sett
A modern sports bar offering American fare and a variety of drink options.
- Sports Bar: Features multiple TVs for watching sports events
- American Cuisine: Serves classic American dishes with a modern twist
- Happy Hour Deals: Offers discounted food and drinks during select hours
12. The Inferno Hotel Rooftop Lounge
A trendy rooftop lounge with stunning views of the Capitol Square and a vibrant atmosphere.
- Rooftop Views: Offers panoramic vistas of downtown Madison
- Upscale Cocktails: Serves specialty, expertly crafted cocktails
- Seasonal Outdoor Space: Features a heated, retractable rooftop for year-round enjoyment
13. The Coopers Tavern
A traditional tavern with a focus on Wisconsin microbrews and classic bar food.
- Wisconsin Microbrews: Features a rotating selection of Wisconsin brews on tap
- Classic Bar Food: Serves pub-style fare like burgers, sandwiches, and wings
- Friendly Atmosphere: Known for its welcoming, neighborhood feel
14. The Bierock Cafe
A unique eatery serving Wisconsin-inspired food and beer in a casual, welcoming setting.
- Wisconsin Cuisine: Serves dishes that celebrate Wisconsin's culinary heritage
- Bierock Sandwiches: Famous for its signature Bierock sandwiches filled with potato, sausage, and onions
- Casual Atmosphere: A laid-back environment perfect for casual dining or socializing
15. The Heritage Tavern
An elegant, historic tavern offering classic American fare and a variety of cocktails.
- Historic Building: Located in a beautifully restored, Victorian-era building
- American Cuisine: Serves classic dishes with modern twists
- Elevated Cocktails: Offers craft cocktails made with premium spirits and ingredients