Dane County Farmers' Market
America's largest producer-only farmers' market, circling the stunning Wisconsin State Capitol with local food, crafts, and vibrant energy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds, best selection
Dane County Farmers' Market
Best Time
Beat the crowds, best selection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
America's largest producer-only farmers' market, circling the stunning Wisconsin State Capitol with local food, crafts, and vibrant energy.
"The Dane County Farmers' Market is one of the markets that are so amazing in all the states."
🚶♀️ Navigate the Crowds
The market can get packed. Consider moving stands into the street for better flow.
🍪 Don't Miss the Baked Goods
Popular items like Stella's cheese bread sell out fast! Arrive early.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stella's Hot & Spicy Cheese Bread
Stella's Bakery stand
Legendary, life-changing cheese bread that's a must-try. Get it before it's gone!
Yummee Cookies
Yummee Cookies stand
Indulge in unique S'mores Cookies and incredible Cream Cheese Garlic Butter Buns.
Hook's Cheese Co.
Hook's Cheese Co. stand
Sample and purchase a wide variety of delicious Wisconsin cheeses, including cheese curds.
Capitol Square Ambiance
Surrounding Wisconsin State Capitol
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as the market encircles the majestic Capitol building.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Arrive Early for the Best Experience
Come Hungry and Ready to Explore
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Navigate the Crowds
The market can get packed. Consider moving stands into the street for better flow.
🍪 Don't Miss the Baked Goods
Popular items like Stella's cheese bread sell out fast! Arrive early.
🧀 Sample the Local Cheese
Many vendors offer samples. Hook's Cheese Co. is a local favorite for cheese curds.
💧 Bring a Reusable Bag
You'll be tempted to buy a lot! A sturdy bag is essential for carrying your haul.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Navigate the Crowds
The market can get packed. Consider moving stands into the street for better flow.
🍪 Don't Miss the Baked Goods
Popular items like Stella's cheese bread sell out fast! Arrive early.
🧀 Sample the Local Cheese
Many vendors offer samples. Hook's Cheese Co. is a local favorite for cheese curds.
💧 Bring a Reusable Bag
You'll be tempted to buy a lot! A sturdy bag is essential for carrying your haul.
🎶 Enjoy the Live Music
Street musicians add to the lively atmosphere. It's a great way to experience the local vibe.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Dane County Farmers' Market, calling it a Madison highlight and a must-visit for its incredible variety of fresh, local produce and artisanal goods. The vibrant atmosphere surrounding the Capitol Square, coupled with delicious food vendors like Stella's Bakery, makes it a memorable experience. Some note the crowds can be intense, but many find it part of the market's charm.
"Madison highlight for sure, make sure to check it out if you’re around on Saturdays. My first time it was quite the experience because everyone was walking around so slowly, but now it’s endearing and part of the experience.
I’ve been in May and June several times and the rhubarb is abundant with all the pastries and pies. Lots of fresh rebar too and asparagus."
Jason C
"The Dane County Farmers Market is one of the markets that are so amazing in all the states. The beautiful location on the Capitol and the amazing amount of vendors and music and events going on is awesome. I love going there and even though I don't live in Wisconsin anymore I try to go back at least two or three times just to get a chance to go to the market. Don't forget to stop at Stella's and get your hot and spicy cheese bread!!"
Jean Marie Jones
"I absolutely love the market. Make the trip from Chicago to come out here. A lot of great vendor is a lot of great fruits and vegetables right from peoples private farms. Tasters and entertainment and just an all-around great day. There’s a Natural Juice truck that’s there that a lady Kim runs and she was amazing and her smoothies are out of this world!!!"
Jennifer Perez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The market is located on Capitol Square in downtown Madison, Wisconsin. It's easily accessible by car, with several parking garages nearby. Public transportation is also an option, with many bus routes serving the downtown area.
Several parking garages are available around Capitol Square, including the State Street Capitol Garage and the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center Garage. Street parking may also be available but can be limited.
Yes, Madison's Metro Transit system has numerous bus routes that stop in the downtown area, making it convenient to reach the market via public transport.
Absolutely! There are bike racks available around Capitol Square, and biking is a popular way to access the market, especially for locals.
To avoid the heaviest traffic and parking challenges, aim to arrive as close to opening (8 AM) as possible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Dane County Farmers' Market is free! It's a public event open to everyone.
The market runs every Saturday from 8 AM to noon, typically from early May through early November.
Yes, the Dane County Farmers' Market is one of the largest producer-only farmers' markets in the United States, meaning vendors sell what they grow or make.
Yes, the market often hosts special events, like the annual Cheese Fest in September, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The market wraps around Capitol Square. Some suggest it can get crowded, and there's discussion about moving stands into the street for better navigation.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Vendors
You'll find a wide array of seasonal fruits and vegetables, from rhubarb and asparagus in spring to a bounty of produce in the summer and fall.
Don't miss Stella's Bakery for their famous hot and spicy cheese bread, Yummee Cookies for unique treats, and Hook's Cheese Co. for artisanal cheeses.
Yes, you can also find handmade crafts, jewelry, flowers, and other artisan goods from local makers. +1
While service animals are permitted, pets are generally not allowed at the market to ensure food safety and a pleasant experience for all.
Bring a reusable shopping bag or a cart, as you'll likely find many tempting items to take home!
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant colors of fresh produce, the bustling crowds, and the iconic Wisconsin State Capitol building as a backdrop.
Many vendors have visually appealing displays, especially those with colorful fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and artisanal products.
Early morning light offers softer lighting and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing the market's atmosphere.
Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their specific displays.
Focus on close-ups of produce, candid shots of shoppers interacting, and wide shots that showcase the scale of the market around the Capitol.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for kid-friendly treats like cookies and pastries, and consider bringing a stroller or wagon for little ones and for carrying your market finds. The lively music and the sheer variety of sights and smells will keep everyone entertained. It's a great opportunity for children to see where their food comes from and interact with local producers.
💰 Budget Travelers
Take advantage of vendor samples to taste before you buy, and consider purchasing items that are in season for the best deals. Packing your own reusable bags also saves on potential bag fees. For a budget-friendly meal, explore the food trucks or grab ingredients for a picnic lunch.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the bustling energy of the crowd, candid interactions between shoppers and vendors, and the vibrant details of the produce. Early morning light is ideal for softer, more atmospheric photos before the peak crowds arrive. Don't forget to capture iconic food items like Stella's cheese bread for a true taste of the market.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Producer-Only Difference
This model fosters a unique sense of community and trust. When you buy from a vendor, you're not just purchasing goods; you're supporting local farmers and artisans and learning firsthand about their practices. It's a refreshing departure from markets where resellers might be present, offering a genuine farm-to-table experience right in the heart of Madison.
This dedication to producer-only sales is a cornerstone of the market's identity and a major draw for visitors seeking authentic local products. It guarantees that the vibrant array of fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and baked goods are as fresh and local as possible.
Navigating the Capitol Square
While the location is picturesque, the sheer popularity of the market can lead to significant crowds, especially on peak Saturdays. Some visitors and locals have noted that the current layout, with vendors on the sidewalk, can feel a bit cramped and difficult to navigate. There's even been discussion about potentially moving vendor stands into the street to create more space and improve pedestrian flow.
Despite the potential for crowds, the experience of strolling around the Capitol, soaking in the atmosphere, and discovering local treasures is a quintessential Madison experience. It's recommended to embrace the lively energy and perhaps plan your visit for earlier in the morning to enjoy a slightly less congested experience.
A Culinary Journey: Must-Try Treats
+1Beyond Stella's, don't miss the chance to sample artisanal cheeses from vendors like Hook's Cheese Co., famous for their cheese curds. For those with a sweet tooth, Yummee Cookies offers unique S'mores Cookies and delectable Cream Cheese Garlic Butter Buns that are a must-try.
+1From fresh juices and smoothies to baked goods and savory snacks, the market provides a diverse culinary landscape. Exploring the various stalls and trying different samples is part of the fun, making it a perfect destination for a food-focused outing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit