THINGS TO DO

Madison is full of surprises! As you get ready to join us for CIES 2027, be sure to discover some of the city’s fun, quirky, and unexpected facts between sessions and conference activities. From its unique setting among five lakes and impressive Capitol dome to famous food traditions, musical connections, and designated as a Platinum Bicycle Friendly and environmentally conscious city, Madison has plenty of stories to tell.

Madison is also located in Teejop (pronounced day-JOPE), with the city referred to as Teejop Hocira in the Ho-Chunk language. The city and surrounding region have a deep Indigenous history and ongoing Indigenous presence, and we encourage visitors to learn more about the Ho-Chunk Nation and the history of the land on which Madison is located.

You might also discover that the city has some quirky and fun facts, too (like an unusual connection to plastic flamingos, Madison’s official city bird!). Madison is also home to WHA radio, considered the oldest radio station in the nation in continuous service, or has been the site of groundbreaking research at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

There are many historic landmarks in the vibrant downtown, the renowned Dane County Farmers’ Market, the Chazen Museum of Art, the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, and a variety of local restaurants, cafés, parks, and cultural attractions (not to mention plenty of cheese to taste).

Explore these and more fun facts about Madison and start getting to know your CIES 2027 destination, Madison, Wisconsin!