Like many Midwestern towns, Middleton, Wisconsin, boomed when the railroad laid track through the city, creating a new artery right through the heart of what is now downtown.

Folks from nearby Madison would hop on the train to Middleton for the American Hotel’s famous 25-cent Sunday dinners. Now called The Free House Pub, it’s still serving Wisconsin favorites to diners, nearly 160 years later.

Middleton boasts 80 restaurants and cafes, including several more within beautifully preserved landmarks — like the Stamm House, built in 1847 as a tavern on the old stagecoach trail. Fully restored, the restaurant has a Supper Club feel and one of the best outdoor patios in the city.

Villa Dolce, an Italian bistro, is located on the ground floor of what was once the first post office. Now, it’s a beloved “date night” spot where families can get a scoop of gelato on their way to a free Thursday night concert at Stone Horse Green — named in celebration of the site’s past as a livery station, including beautiful stone horse sculptures.

Outdoor art is also important to Middleton, with more than 30 stops on the Art Trail, accessible via brochure or online map.

The newest art installation celebrates the history of the first indigenous people who made their homes around Lake Mendota. Middleton has three lake access points and a watercraft rental business.

If looking for special tours, tastings or talks, reach out in advance to Capital Brewery & Bier Garten — the longest-running micro craft-brewery in the Midwest; Hidden Cave Cidery — locally owned hard cider tasting room; and the quirky National Mustard Museum, which welcomes bus tour groups and has a tasting bar and beautiful gift shop.

From our dining to our outdoor spaces, we like to say it’s the middle things that make Middleton special.

WHERE TO FIND US
www.visitmiddleton.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MiddletonWI
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visit.middleton/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/VisitMiddleton
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/visitmiddleton/