“We were thrilled to see the number of donations go up this year for the winter clothing drive,” said Laura Portz, the campaign’s coordinator and convention and events services manager for Visit Middleton. “We actually ran the drive for a shorter period of time this year, but it didn’t impact people’s enthusiasm for giving.”

This was the second year Visit Middleton, the City of Middleton’s tourism department, hosted “Keeping Neighbors Warm”; however, it was the eighth year the office participated in a clothing drive, formerly known as Big Bundle Up. This year’s clothing drive broke 2022’s donation total of 607 items.

The 2023 “Keeping Neighbor Warm” clothing drive took place Nov. 22-Dec. 13, with drop-off locations at Keva Sports Center, Middleton Public Library, Willy Street Co-op West, and the Middleton Visitors Center. Residents and visitors donated winter outerwear items for all ages, including winter coats, snow pants, hats, gloves, scarves and boots. Donations were picked up weekly and dropped off at WayForward Resources, previously known as Middleton Outreach Ministry, for distribution.

“This clothing drive comes at a perfect time with the weather turning colder and more people in our community finding it increasingly difficult to stretch their budgets to cover the most basic needs,” said Jenny Price, communications manager for WayForward Resources. “This influx of coats and other winter gear for WayForward’s clothing center will keep a lot of children and families warm, and it’s an amazing example of what we can do when we come together.”

For more information about Visit Middleton, go to visitmiddleton.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Beer Lovers

Craft beer lovers will discover outstanding options in Middleton.

Middleton’s award-winning German-style craft brewery, Capital Brewery, is conveniently located downtown near many restaurants and free parking. Pull up to the bar in the Bier Stube (“beer hall”) for a beer or seltzer on tap. Winter hours are Sundays: noon-6 p.m.; closed on Mondays; Tuesdays-Thursdays: 4-9 p.m.; Fridays: 3-10 p.m.; and Saturdays: noon-9 p.m.

Visit Longtable Beer Cafe in downtown Middleton to find a charming café-bottle shop-tasting room that boasts more than 300 bottles for purchase (to take away or drink on-site) and a dozen rotating taps. World of Beer near Greenway Station offers an eye-popping selection of more than 500 bottles and dozens of taps from across the state, the country and the world. The Free House Pub, another downtown favorite, has 22 draft lines that rotate regularly. Craftsman Table & Tap on the north side of Middleton features 18 rotating taps, two dozen bottled beers and nine thirst-quenching cocktails with two special New Year’s events planned – Surf & Turf Dinner on New Year’s Eve and a New Year’s Day Brunch.

Hard Ciders Fans

Middleton is home to Hidden Cave Cidery, a locally owned and operated cidery on the northwest side of town. All ciders at Hidden Cave Cidery are made with Wisconsin-grown apples and sweetened with local honey and fresh fruit.  Hidden Cave Cidery’s tap list changes each weekend to feature something fresh, new and often seasonal.

Wine Aficionados

Want to raise a glass of red or white — or something sparkling — instead? Head to Grape Water Wine Bar on Hubbard Avenue in downtown Middleton, where you’ll find more than a dozen wines on tap, including varietals from California, France, Spain and South America. Grape Water also sells sparkling wine, beer and seltzers. Barriques is a combination café and bottle shop in downtown Middleton that offers a wide variety of wine, spirits and beer and is open until 6 p.m. Grace Coffee also has a wine menu available.

Local Favorites

When one of your nicknames is “the Good Neighbor City,” you will discover some friendly local haunts.  Monk’s Bar & Grill has served cold beer and hot cheese curds at its Middleton location near Greenway Station since 2011. The Village Green is an old-fashioned tavern in downtown Middleton known for its traditional pub fare, like hamburgers and homemade chili. Also in downtown Middleton is Louisianne’s ETC. This elegant New Orleans-style restaurant welcomes guests with beautiful French Quarter-style décor, sparkling chandeliers, an old European-style wine cellar, and, often, live jazz music. Mid Town Pub is Middleton’s lakeside neighborhood bar and grill, featuring ten draft lines, over 100 bottled beers, more than 200 spirits, and an award-winning fish fry. You’re in for a historical treat at 1847 at the Stamm House as it was built in 1847 and first served as a service station, and now has been restored into a modern, upscale supper club-like restaurant with two beautiful bars that serve a variety of beer, wine and classic cocktails.

Enjoy a New Game or Puzzle

Accomplishing a new puzzle or bonding over a classic board game is something almost anyone can get behind. Bring the fun home for the holidays with a new game or puzzle from I’M BOARD! Games & Family Fun, a game store that is home to a vast selection of entertainment items. Plus, the store has an “open gaming” area where patrons can play games and test items before purchasing.

Gingerbread House Kits

This time of year, Clasen’s European Bakery transforms into a winter wonderland. Clasen’s is a must-stop spot in December, from the bakery’s child-sized gingerbread house (perfect for photos) to their assortment of homemade, seasonal baked goods and candies. Additionally, Clasen’s sells gingerbread house kits — perfect for those looking to accomplish a classic, seasonal craft. Each kit is filled with everything needed to make a magical mini holiday home, including gingerbread pieces, chocolates, colorful assorted candy and white chocolate glue — all hand-cut and hand-made by Clasen’s master bakers. The gingerbread house kits are available for store pick-up, local delivery, and nationwide shipping.

Golf for Any Weather

We get it — sometimes you need to switch up the scenery and get out of the house, especially during long holiday breaks, X-Golf is the perfect place to do just that. Gather your friends or family and take on a round of indoor golf at X-Golf, located in Middleton’s Greenway Station shopping district. This premier indoor golf and entertainment facility offers state-of-the-art golf simulators that are fun for all ages and levels. X-Golf also provides a full food and bar menu to help fuel your game.

Free Museum and Activities

You can’t let your friends or family leave town without a visit to the world’s mustard mecca — The National Mustard Museum. This quirky  — and free — museum is home to more than 6,700 jars, pots, and tubes of mustard, more than 200 of which are available for sale at the upstairs gift shop. The museum features the Mustardpiece Theatre, interactive displays and plenty of photo opportunities. All patrons can sample mustard before buying at The National Mustard Museum’s tasting bar. And if mustard isn’t your thing, the gift shop also sells other delicious food items, like barbeque sauce, chocolate toppings, jams, maple syrup, and hilarious gift items and Wisconsin-themed souvenirs.

Burn off Energy at PlayN Wisconsin

If you’re a parent with young kiddos, you’ll thank us later for this suggestion. PlayN Wisconsin is the place to go when your children need to burn off a little extra energy when the weather isn’t warm enough to be at one of Middleton’s many parks. Known for being a retailer of superior outdoor play equipment, PlayN Wisconsin also offers an on-site, indoor play facility where kids and parents can test equipment before purchasing. All ages are welcome to play — including toddlers, tweens and grandparents. The play facility is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday and Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.

Children’s Art Kits and Classes

If you need an activity for the young artists in your life, check out Rock Paper Scissors art studio. Children can discover the little things that make their imaginations soar in this dreamy crafting space. The studio frequently offers in-person art classes and events, as well as the option to craft at home with their take-home art kits, which include everything from birdhouse decorating to weaving and so much more.

Warm up with a drink

It’s simply not the holiday season without a peppermint mocha or a steaming cup of hot chocolate. No matter what you like filling your mug with, multiple spots in Middleton sell seasonal beverages that’ll make your taste buds pop and warm you up.  Check out Grace Coffee Co. downtown and its seasonal drinks, including gingerbread-flavored cold brew, lattes and chai tea, as well as Barriques Coffee Roasters, where you’ll find yourself an eggnog, gingerbread or peppermint latte. When on the northeast side of town, stop into Prairie Café & Bakery to order a seasonal hot drink and a warm breakfast. Swing by the drive-thru at Starbucks, MOKA or Scooters Coffee for various holiday-themed drink options.  

Treat Yourself to a Holiday Goodie

Who can say “No” to a sweet treat? Exploring Middleton’s bakeries is a fun outing for the whole family. Check out a variety of delicious, made-from-scratch loaves of bread, cakes, pastries, confections and more at Middleton’s longest-standing bakery, Clasen’s European Bakery. Each year, Clasen’s goes into full winter holiday mode, with seasonal treats galore and, most notably, a child-size gingerbread house in the back of the shop.

A stop at Miggy’s Bakes puts a smile on anyone’s face. This pretty, pink bakery has a dessert case filled with unique-flavored cookies, cookie cups, cakes, brownies and bars. During the holidays, you’ll find the cutest winter-themed cut-out sugar cookies. Plus, on Saturdays and Sundays, the bakery serves fresh cinnamon rolls.

Longtable Beer Cafe has added a holiday “dessert board” which includes eggnog, peppermint chocolate cake, and cookies.

And do not forget Hubbard Avenue Diner’s bakery counter filled with pies, cakes, cookies, brownies and seasonally decorated sugar cookies. Hubbard also carries Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream, perfect for a sundae or milkshake.

Delight in Downtown’s Winter Window Stroll

Stroll through downtown Middleton and see windows decorated with adorable, hand-painted gnome winter scenes. Local artist Anne Bamberg intricately hand-painted festive gnomes on 14 windows across downtown Middleton with sweet nods to the stores they adorn — for example, the gnomes are decorating a tree at The National Mustard Museum using pretzels and mustard! You’ll be amazed by the beauty of these charming window paintings.

Enjoy Capital Brewery’s Keg Tree

Stacked 18 feet high with 287 half-barrels, Capital Brewery and Bier Garten’s “keg tree” is a sight to see. Admire this tree while enjoying one of their award-winning beers inside the cozy Bier Stube. This brewery has been around since 1986, brewing German-style lager, and now also offering a variety of American-style ales, barrel-aged beers and IPAs.

Find the Unexpected at The National Mustard Museum

This is a fun place to bring visiting family for an afternoon. The museum is free and full of memorabilia and more than 6,700 jars and tubes of mustard to look at. The shop upstairs contains more than 200 kinds of mustard for sale and other delicious food items, like barbeque sauce, chocolate toppings, jams, maple syrup and more, as well as hilarious gift items and Wisconsin-themed gifts.

Join the Fun at These Middleton Events

• Hidden Cave Cidery Drag Brunch: On Dec. 16, Mr.Gay Wisconsin, Michael Lynn, will host a drag brunch at Hidden Cave Cidery. There will be performances by three dancers and a full breakfast buffet featuring food from Vessel Café. The doors open at 10 a.m., brunch will be served at 10:30 a.m., and the show will begin at 11:15 a.m.
• Gingerbread House Workshop: Children aged 5 and older are invited to celebrate the holidays with a crafting workshop from 2-4 p.m., Dec. 17, at Rock Paper Scissors. Children will decorate paper gingerbread houses and ornaments.
• Middleton Community Orchestra Holiday Concert: Enjoy Middleton Community Orchestra’s Holiday Concert at Hamel Music Center. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 20 and will feature two soloists, Lindsay Flowers on oboe and David Perry on violin. Tickets can be purchased at Willy Street Co-op West and at the door on the night of the show.  
• Make Music Winter: Celebrate the shortest day of the year, Dec. 21, with music in Stone Horse Green and a parade around downtown Middleton. The parade will begin at 3 p.m. All are welcome to join the parade to play instruments and sing carols.
• Fleet Feet New Year’s Day Dash: The 19th Annual Fleet Feet New Year’s Day Dash will begin at 10 a.m., Jan. 1, 2024, at KEVA Sports Center in Middleton. This event is a 5-mile chip-timed run and a 2-mile walk, followed by a party, great prizes, complementary beverage tokens, and giveaways.

American-style Dining

If looking to host a gathering at an American-style eatery, there are several places in Middleton to do so. Whether coming together in a historic building, at a long table or in a party room, there’s an option fit for every party.

1847 at the Stamm House

An elegant American restaurant that’s located in a 19th-century historic building and serves a variety of unique seasonal fare and cocktails.

• Rental space and capacity:
  • Private upstairs dining space – capacity 26
  • “1847 Chef’s Cave” – capacity 12
  • Large groups may rent the entire restaurant upon request
  • Food: upscale American dining
• Learn more about party reservations here.

Craftsman Table & Tap

This restaurant features a wide variety of craft beer and American favorites inspired by local and seasonal ingredients.

• Rental space and capacity:
  • Upper-level private dining room and patio – capacity 80
  • Food: hearty, rustic pub fare
• Learn more about party reservations here.

Longtable Beer Cafe

A combination cafe and bottle shop that offers more than 300 brew options and a menu inspired and made with fresh and local ingredients.

• Rental space and capacity:
  • Tasting room – capacity 8-15
  • Larger groups can rent out the entire cafe during non-peak dining times (typically weekday afternoons)
  • Food: craft beer and local American food
• Learn more about party reservations here.

Nitty Gritty

This family and group-friendly restaurant and bar is known as the “Official Birthday Place” and is home to traditional American favorites such as burgers, sandwiches, shakes, craft beer and cocktails.

• Rental space and capacity:
  • Upper-level private room – capacity 75
  • Food: family-friendly American bar and grill
• Learn more about party reservations here.

Tanners Bar and Grill

This bar and grill chain serves traditional pub grub, burgers, sandwiches and wings in a casual space.

• Rental space and capacity:
  • Three private room options, each with differing capacity levels (12, 40 or 60)
  • Food: family-friendly American bar and grill
• Learn more about party reservations here.

Upscale/Fine Dining

Say that you’re more in the mood for something elegant that serves warm, comforting foods such as pasta, steak or handmade pizza; look no further than these Middleton spaces.

Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano

A casual Italian restaurant offering an extensive selection of house-made and imported pasta and various soups, salads, pizza, seafood, steaks and desserts.

• Rental space and capacity:
  • Small private dining room – capacity 12
  • Food: Italian fare, family-friendly
• Learn more about party reservations here.

Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse

This steakhouse specializes in quality steaks, chops, seafood and many other Italian specialties.

• Rental space and capacity:
  • Boardroom – capacity 36
  • The Sammy – capacity 50 total, 40 eating
  • Food: upscale meat, seafood and Italian dining
• Learn more about party reservations here.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

This elegant steakhouse chain is known for its sizzling, butter-topped premium steaks.

• Rental space and capacity:
  • Harvest Room – capacity 16
  • Middleton Room – capacity 16
  • Sizzle Room – capacity 16
  • Silo Room – capacity 24
  • (Harvest, Middleton, and Sizzle can be combined for up to 80)
  • Food: premium steakhouse
• Learn more about party reservations here.

Alcoholic Drink Spots

If your group likes to celebrate by raising a glass or two, check out Capital Brewery or Grape Water Wine Bar, which offers party rooms and spaces to rent.

Capital Brewery

This award-winning brewery has been specializing in German-style lagers since 1984. Capital Brewery’s drink menu has grown since its opening to offer American-style ales, barrel-aged beers, and several IPAs.

• Rental space and capacity:
  • Grain Room – capacity 75
  • Bier Stube – capacity 80
  • Bier Garten – capacity 500
  • Grain Room and Bier Stube can be combined – capacity 155
  • Food: cater or bring in your own food to complement the brewery’s award-winning beer
• Learn more about party reservations here.

Grape Water Wine Bar

This downtown Middleton wine bar offers a fun and cozy atmosphere and features 15 self-serve wine options.

• Rental space and capacity:
  • Full venue rental when wine bar is closed – 49 capacity
  • Back room rental when wine bar is open – 20 capacity
  • Food: light snacks, Salvatore’s pizzas and charcuterie plates. Carry-in food is not allowed.
• Learn more about party reservations here.

Hidden Cave Cidery

This local cidery features new and unique cider flavors on tap each week. Patrons can enjoy a refreshing glass in the indoor tasting room or on the back patio in the summertime.

• Rental space and capacity:
  • Tasting room and patio (weather permitting) – 50 capacity
• Learn more about party reservations here.

Additional restaurants unique to Middleton

Middleton is home to 80 restaurants and cafes, many of which are only in this city. Host your holiday party at a restaurant unique to Middleton; check out three options below.

Fajitas, Tapas & Bar

Located in the heart of downtown Middleton, this Mexican restaurant offers authentic dishes including a wide variety of uniquely flavored fajitas.

• Rental space and capacity
  • Entire facility – 140 capacityTop half of restaurant – 100 capacityBottom half of restaurant – 40 capacity
• Learn more about party reservations here.

Imperial Garden

This restaurant offers some of the best traditional Chinese cuisine in an elegant dining space. Imperial Garden has been voted Best of Madison every year since 1984.

• Rental space and capacity:
  • Main dining room – 100 capacity
  • Cocktail lounge – 50 capacity
  • Small private dining room – 20 capacity
• Learn more about party reservations here.

Louisianne’s ETC

Located in a beautiful French Quarter-style building, this elegant New Orleans-style restaurant serves delicious Cajun and Creole dishes.

• Rental space and capacity:
  • Private upstairs room – 40 capacity
  • Food: Cajun and Creole
  • Rental space and capacity:
  • Private upstairs room – 40 capacity
  • Food: Cajun and Creole
• Learn more about party reservations here.

Sofra Family Bistro

Since 1991, this family-friendly restaurant has served authentic, made-from-scratch Albanian-American breakfast and lunch dishes.

• Rental space and capacity:
  • Private party room – 40 capacity
  • Sunday evening, only the entire restaurant can be reserved – 100 capacity
  • Food: Albanian-American
• Learn more about party reservations here.

Sport Facility Rentals

If your group enjoys being active and gathering to compete in a sport, then Middleton has some options for you.

Capital Ice Arena

This Middleton hockey rink is home to the Madison Capitols and many youth and high school hockey programs. The arena is also available for private event rentals.

• Rental space and capacity:
  • Two full sheets of ice, seven private suites, Suter Suite Bar, beer garden; contact Capitol Ice for specific capacity information
• Learn more about party reservations here.

Hitters Sportsplex:

This Middleton sports complex offers functional and premier tennis and pickleball court space and multiple batting cages.

• Rental space and capacity:
  • Six championship courts, two USTA Quickstart courts and an automated batting cage; contact Capitol Ice for specific capacity information
• Learn more about party reservations here.

Middleton Sports Bowl

This 10-lane bowling alley and multi-level sports bar is the perfect place for groups of up to 50 people to gather. Take in a round of bowling and enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner all in one place.

• Rental space:
  • Banquet Room (40 capacity)
  • Upstairs seating and bar (100 capacity)
  • Bowling lanes
  • Outdoor Patio (30 capacity)
• Learn more about party reservations here.

X-Golf

Take your golf game indoors with X-Golf’s state-of-the-art golf simulators with world-renowned courses.

• Rental space and capacity:
  • Seven simulators, six players per golfing bay
  • Private events and reservations are available by appointment
  • Food: Full bar and grill
• Learn more about party reservations here.

A few other spaces that may fit your group’s needs.

Willy Street Co-op

This Madison-area health food store offers high-quality natural, organic and locally-produced foods that can be enjoyed in-store or to-go.

• Rental space and capacity:
  • Community Room – 30 capacity
  • Food: Bring your own food or prepare food bought in-store (the community room is certified for commercial use)
• Learn more about party reservations here.

Frostwood Farms

Frostwood Farms Kitchen offers individually curated events with locally sourced food and excellent service. Each event is fully customized and tailored to fit the needs of each group.

• Rental space and capacity:
  • Harvest room – 30 capacity
  • Kitchen – 100 capacity
  • Food: Locally-sourced chef-curated meals
• Learn more about party reservations here.

Middleton Hotels

Plan a gathering at one of Middleton’s beautiful hotel meeting venues – with 66,000 square feet of conference space and more than 1,150 rooms in nine hotels, Middleton is exactly what you need to plan your next event.

From gifts for fashion-forward friends to local art pieces for family members, here in Middleton, you’ll find something special for everyone on your shopping list.

For the fashion-minded

There are plenty of places to find the perfect piece for the fashionista in your life. If looking for women’s apparel that’s stylish, trendy and sure to impress, head to Cloth & Metal, Chauette Fashion & Home, and Tradition Women’s Market in Downtown Middleton. Also in downtown is Journeyman Co., a high-quality men’s clothing store that sells products and brands made in the U.S. but not often easy to find in the area.

And if looking to shop top-retail brands like J.Crew Factory, DSW, J. Jill, Loft, Chico’s and more, then check out Greenway Station, a 51-acre outdoor shopping center minutes from downtown.

For the outdoorsy and active types

If you have some active friends and family members on your list, head to one of Middleton’s sporting goods stores to load up on the latest gear. Wheel & Sprocket is home to great bikes and affordable gear for cyclists, and Playtri Swim Bike Run sells bikes and scooters, as well as all the accessories and apparel for swimming and running. Golf Galaxy is your go-to source for top-quality, brand-name golf equipment, apparel and accessories. Speaking of golf, Middleton’s award-winning golf course, Pleasant View Golf Course, offers gift certificates to golf, shop or take lessons. And, if you’d like to take the golfing indoors, X-Golf in Greenway Station offers an indoor golf simulator.

Cross-country skiers will love being treated to a gift certificate or day pass to Middleton’s CXC Outdoor Recreation and Sports Center, home to miles of beautiful, groomed ski trails. Marshall Boats at Lake Mendota is closed for the season, but water lovers might appreciate gift certificates for lessons or rentals for kayaks, canoes, pontoon boats or paddleboards.

For the kids

Find something for kids of all ages at I’m Board! Games & Family Fun, which sells board games, card games, puzzles and everything else you need for a fun family get-together.  At Tradition Children’s Market, you’ll find a wide variety of apparel, accessories and toys (and there’s Tradition Women’s Market next door for Mom, too). Not only will you find adorable seasonal gifts and party supplies at Little Pop Color Shop, but great kids’ toys, games and art supplies.

For the art and home decor lovers

If you have a family member who has an eye for design or appreciates local and regional art, there are multiple places in Middleton to pick up a gift for them. Stop by The Regal Find for a selection of local and regional artists’ work and take in fine art and a framing gallery at Gary’s Art & Frame Shop. Little Pop Color Shop is a happy shop filled with beautiful home décor, as well.

For the jewelry wearers

Looking for a unique ring, bracelet or necklace to put under the tree? Middleton is home to several specialty jewelers, including Chalmers Jewelers, Diny’s Jewelers, John/Christine Designs, Middleton Jewelers and University Coin & Jewelry. Cloth & Metal and The Regal Find also sell gorgeous, local handmade jewelry.

For the foodies

Middleton’s dining scene is full of flavor! Give the gift of food this holiday with a gift card to one of Middleton’s 80 restaurants or cafes. Or, stop by the National Mustard Museum, where you can shop more than 200 varieties of mustards, a perfect addition to any holiday gift. The National Mustard Museum’s inventory is for sale in-store or online. If looking to add a bottled alcoholic beverage to a holiday basket, look to Hidden Cave Cidery, Capital Brewery, Grape Water Wine Bar or Barriques. Get Middleton-themed coffee blends sourced and roasted by Rusty Dog Coffee and sold at The Regal Find and Sofra Family Bistro. Miggy’s Bakes and Clasen’s European Bakery has delicious baked goods to add to gifts that will surely delight anyone.

MIDDLETON, Wis. — Visit Middleton invites community members to participate in “Keeping Neighbors Warm,” an annual clothing drive that gathers new or slightly used winter outerwear donations for Middleton and its surrounding communities.

Residents and visitors may donate winter outerwear to this year’s “Keeping Neighbors Warm” beginning Wednesday, Nov. 22, through Wednesday, Dec. 13. Drop-off locations include: Keva Sports Center (8312 Forsythia Street), Middleton Public Library (7425 Hubbard Avenue), Willy Street Co-op West (6825 University Avenue), and the Middleton Visitors Center (1811 Parmenter Street). Requested items include winter coats, snow pants, hats, gloves, scarves and boots for all ages. 

“Winter in Wisconsin is a beautiful, magical time, but only if we’re warm enough to enjoy it,” said Mari Olson, director of tourism at Visit Middleton. “Keeping Neighbors Warm is about just that — neighbors helping neighbors during the coldest months of the year. It’s heartening to see how many people rise to the occasion and help our community through this drive.”

Each week, Visit Middleton staff will collect the winter outerwear items and deliver them to WayForward Resources, formerly known as Middleton Outreach Ministry, for distribution. These items go directly to those in the community who are in the most need of staying warm, safe and healthy this winter.

“This drive was a huge success last year and kept a lot of people in our community warm throughout the winter months,” said Ellen Carlson, executive director for WayForward Resources. “Families who access what they need from our Clothing Center can instead focus their monthly budgets on paying for rent and other essential needs. We’re proud to partner with Visit Middleton to bring our community together to help build stability for everyone.”

This will be the second year for “Keeping Neighbors Warm,” hosted through Visit Middleton, the City of Middleton’s tourism department, but it will be the eighth year the office has participated in a clothing drive, formerly known as Big Bundle Up. Last year, Visit Middleton gathered 607 winter outerwear items.

“The Middleton community has supported this drive for years and yet it’s always a humbling experience when we take stock of all the donations brought in,” Olson said. “You can tell that the community values outreach and we are so grateful that WayForward is part of our community and provides resources for those in need. It has been a wonderful partnership.”

For more information about Visit Middleton, go to visitmiddleton.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram. 

Please note: many Middleton restaurants and businesses are closed on Thanksgiving. Make sure to pick up your Thanksgiving fixings before Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023. Preorder and pickup deadlines differ between restaurants.

Barriques
608-824-9463
BARRIQUESMARKET.COM

To ensure you can get a caffeine boost before guests arrive, Barriques is open 6:30 a.m.-2 p.m. on Thanksgiving day. If looking to host a coffee bar at your Thanksgiving gathering, Barriques offers 96-ounce coffee boxes, referred to as “Joes To-Go,” which come with cups, cream, sugars and stir sticks, all for $24.95. A 24-hour notice is preferred when ordering party-sized coffee carriers. Also available at Barriques is a wide variety of canned beer and full bottles of wine and spirits, many of which are local and perfect to bring to a party.

Clasen’s European Bakery
608-831-2032
CLASENSBAKERY.COM

If looking for help in the baking department this holiday season, Clasen’s European Bakery in Middleton has you covered. With more than 40 varieties of handcrafted loaves of bread and rolls, and 70 varieties of delicious treats, including pastries, cookies, pies, tarts, tortes, cakes and chocolate, there is sure to be something from this European bakery that’ll wow your Thanksgiving crowd. Plus, Clasen’s European Bakery can help provide a no-fuss breakfast with whole quiches available in three different flavors.

November/Thanksgiving features:

• Pecan, pumpkin and Dutch apple pie
• Apple pecan, pumpkin and cranberry walnut quick bread
• Amaretto apple cider torte
• Apple crisp cheesecake
• Roll wheels
• Chocolate turkeys (milk and dark)
• Thanksgiving-themed sugar cookies

C’s Restaurant & Bakery
608-836-4700
CSRESTAURANT.COM

If you’ve been assigned dessert duty, impress your crowd with something homemade from C’s Restaurant & Bakery. This local breakfast and brunch spot offers a full lineup of bakery items. Items available for preorder include raspberry bread, bars, and a variety of pies: apple, Dutch apple, blueberry, cherry, lemon meringue, pumpkin and pecan. Orders can be placed over the phone or in person.

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
608-827-9000
DICKEYS.COM

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in Middleton is offering Thanksgiving meals to-go that are fit for all party sizes. Meals can be picked up through Thursday, Nov. 23. Order here, and check out their full holiday menu here.

Options include: prime rib, spiral cut ham, Cajun turkey, smoked turkey, beef brisket and various sides: bacon and green beans, creamed spinach, sweet potato casserole, cornbread dressing, baked potato casserole, mac and cheese, gravy, rolls, pecan pie, pumpkin pie, lemonade and iced tea.

Grace Coffee Co.
715-350-2425
GRACECOFFEEWI.COM

Grace Coffee Co. in downtown Middleton isn’t just known for its coffee but also its bakery section. For Thanksgiving, Grace Coffee Co. offers a special Thanksgiving bakery menu, which features a variety of pies, cheesecakes, quiche and more. All preorders must be placed by Sunday, Nov. 18 and can be picked up from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 22, and from 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 23. Order by phone (715-350-2425) or on the Grace Coffee mobile app or their website. Bakery preorders include: pumpkin cheesecake, pecan pie, French silk pie, pumpkin pie and apple pie

Hidden Cave Cidery
608-213-7396
HIDDENCAVECIDERY.COM

Did someone say sweet potato casserole? How about in hard cider form? Among Hidden Cave Cidery’s list of ciders available in November is the Sweet Potato Casserole specialty cider. This cider is crafted with roasted sweet potatoes, nutmeg, dark brown sugar, marshmallow fluff and fermented Wisconsin apples. A variety of other cider flavors can also be purchased in Hidden Cave Cidery’s tasting room or at a local liquor stores.

Hubbard Avenue Diner
608-831-6800
HUBBARDAVENUEDINER.COM

Hubbard Avenue Diner is the place to go if you want to bring some pie to the party. This local diner features 13 different flavors of pie and a variety of other baked goods including cakes, cheesecakes, cookies, brownies, cinnamon rolls, biscuits and dinner rolls. Preorders for holiday pies and baked goods can be placed through this link and must be ordered by Nov. 17 and picked up by 8 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 22.

Pie options include apple, apple double crust (vegan), apple cranberry double crust (vegan), cherry double crust (vegan), strawberry rhubarb, coconut cream, duo of silks, french silk, key lime, peanut butter silk, pecan, pumpkin and pumpkin Chocolate Chip. Pies are $21.99 and serve six.

Mid Town Pub
608-826-5129
MIDTOWNPUB.COM

Mid Town Pub will be open from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. on Thanksgiving and is offering indoor dining, carryout, curbside pickup and delivery. Their Thanksgiving meal includes roasted turkey breast, mashed potatoes and gravy, herb stuffing, green bean casserole, baby carrots, a Hawaiian dinner roll, and a choice of pumpkin or pecan pie for dessert. This meal is first come, first served; pre-orders and reservations are not accepted.

Miggy’s Bakes
608-445-4332
MIGGYSBAKES.COM

Miggy’s Bakes will have Thanksgiving-themed baked good platters available for pre-order and pick up on Wednesday, November 22. These platters come in a variety of size options and include a mix of seasonally-flavored cookie cups, cookies and bars — all are almost too cute to eat. Thanksgiving guests will certainly be impressed by this baked goods spread.

National Mustard Museum
608-831-2222
MUSTARDMUSEUM.COM

Stop by the National Mustard Museum to get your favorite Thanksgiving condiment. Many traditional Thanksgiving recipes can be spiced up by adding one of the museum’s hundreds of mustards. The National Mustard Museum will be closed on Thanksgiving but open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. all other days of the week.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House
608-828-7884
RUTHSCHRIS.COM

Let Ruth’s Chris Steak House prepare your Thanksgiving meal. Enjoy an entrée meal of roasted turkey, sausage and herb stuffing, turkey gravy, cranberry relish, and a choice of salad, one additional traditional Thanksgiving side and pumpkin cheesecakes for dessert. This “Thanksgiving at your Table” package is available for $175 and can be picked up 12–4 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 22. This meal serves four people; additional sides can be added if desired. Learn more here.

Many people travel to Middleton to visit the ever-popular National Mustard Museum, order a round of award-winning beer at Capital Brewery, hit the trails at Pheasant Branch Conservancy, or shop the day away in the city’s charming downtown. However, if you dig deeper and travel a little off the beaten path, you’ll find some of Middleton’s hidden treasures that are worth exploring.

Allow us to introduce you to a multi-generational bakery, a cidery conveniently located near a bike trail, and an underground New Orleans-inspired restaurant.

Hidden Cave Cidery

Tucked away in a residential neighborhood off of Hidden Oaks Trail, you’ll find Hidden Cave Cidery. This cidery is owned and operated by a Middleton local, Walker Fanning, who grew up down the street from the cidery and graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in agronomy.

“I first became interested in the hard cider-making process right after college when working as an orchard manager at a small apple orchard south of Madison,” Fanning said.

Fanning determined that there was a void for venues that offer hard cider in the Madison area.

“Most bars and restaurants in the Madison area don’t even serve more than two ciders at a time,” Fanning said.

Because of that, he was inspired to open Hidden Cave Cidery as a place dedicated to the production and service of hard cider — and he did just that in 2021.

With more than two years under his belt, Fanning has built up the cidery to include a beautiful tasting room, an outdoor patio, and many scheduled live music events. There are often food trucks on-site, and on those days, Fanning makes ciders that pair well with whatever food is being served. The cidery is dog-friendly and often has events geared towards four-legged friends (and their owners).

All ciders at Hidden Cave Cidery are made with fresh fruit and sweetened with local ingredients, which is unique compared to the standard cider-making process.

“Most nationally distributed ciders are made from apple concentrate and contain artificial flavorings, but we use only fresh Wisconsin apples, natural sweeteners, and ingredients purchased right down the road at local grocery stores,” Fanning said.

Fanning is constantly experimenting with unique ingredient combinations using only Wisconsin apples. Hidden Cave Cidery’s tap list changes each weekend to feature something fresh and new.

“Since opening, I’ve made more than 30 different cider variations,” he added. “Ten of which have been distributed throughout Wisconsin, while the other 20 are only available at the tasting room.”

“It takes nearly 12 hours to make some of the specialty kegs of cider, which typically serves around 100 glasses,” said Fanning, who, on average, makes 20-24 kegs of cider per month.

So, when in Middleton, wander into this cozy cidery for a refreshing glass of hard cider during any season, and you’re sure to be impressed.

Louisianne’s ETC.

Look twice so you don’t miss this hidden treasure! Downtown along Hubbard Avenue, is a building with a dark red awning reading Louisianne’s ETC. Walk down a set of stairs and be transported to Middleton’s own “little New Orleans.” Inside Louisianne’s ETC., guests are welcomed with the smell of Cajun and Creole dishes, as well as a touch of French Quarter-style décor, including stone walls, hanging plants, elegant chandeliers and an old European-style wine cellar.

This cozy dining spot is owned by Gwen Bryan and Eric Christian, who are likely to greet guests upon arrival. The two are more than dedicated to their restaurant.

“My husband and I are here almost all of the time, which, I feel, people that come here regularly take note of and really appreciate,” Bryan said.

What once opened as Bryan’s passion project during her college years has been serving Cajun and Creole dishes from scratch for more than 31 years. 

“We’ve had the same employees for a long time,” she said. They both describe their staff as a family and one of the restaurant’s biggest strengths.

The atmosphere at Lousianne’s ETC. is elegant, inviting and so unique to the area. The restaurant’s ambiance is made even better on Friday and Saturday nights with live jazz and blues piano performances.

Clasen’s European Bakery

Travel less than a mile out of downtown to a warehouse building that’s topped with a red roof and filled with delicious homemade European-style baked goods. This bakery has been a Middleton staple since 1959 when two brothers, Ralf and Ernst Clasen, arrived in America from Germany determined to start a life doing what they knew best — baking.

With a range of German bread, cake and pastry recipes in hand, the brothers first began working for a bakery in Madison then a few months later discovered a diner/bakery on Donna Drive which was for sale, said Michelle Clasen, Ralf Clasen’s daughter and previous bakery manager. This building is where the bakery still operates today.

Attached to Clasen’s European Bakery’s active bakery kitchen is a storefront where delicious, made-from-scratch loaves of bread, cakes, pastries, confections and much more can be purchased. To sell top-quality goods, Clasen’s European Bakery has workers baking throughout the night to ensure those coming into the store the following day can buy something as fresh as possible.  

When visiting Clasen’s European Bakery, choosing just one goodie is nearly impossible. The bakery is filled with everything from artisan breads to chocolate truffles to seasonally-flavored pastries.

“It’s hard to pick just one top item, but I would say the bread, quiches and morning buns tend to be some of our most popular items,” Clasen said.

Clasen’s European Bakery ships all of its non-perishable foods nationwide and has local pickup and delivery. 

“Before coming to Clasen’s, I want people to know they are supporting a three-generation family business,” she added.

The two brothers owned and operated Clasen’s European bakery for 30 years, then in 1989, handed ownership over to Ralf’s daughter, Michelle Clasen. The family tradition doesn’t end with just two generations. Michelle Clasen’s son, Tony Wuesthofen, completed culinary school training and the business is now being handed over to him as the bakery manager.

When heading to Clasen’s European Bakery, know that you are getting a delicious old-world style product made with natural ingredients and baked from a beloved family recipe.

Pheasant Branch & Fredrick’s Hill Loop:

Distance: 4 miles

Parking and trail access: Orchid Heights Park (3960 Valley Ridge Road), Historical Marker #398 (4864 Pheasant Branch Road) or Pheasant Branch Conservancy Parking Lot (3819-3829 Pheasant Branch Road)

This loop covers some of the most scenic spots in Pheasant Branch Conservancy, including wooded forests, wetlands and prairies. The path winds through sections of boardwalks, bridges and outlooks. Users also have the option to veer off the main trail to hike up Fredrick’s Hill, which offers spectacular 360-degree views of the area, including a Native American effigy mound and the Wisconsin State Capitol.

Pheasant Branch Creek Corridor Trail:

Distance: 1.4 miles

Parking and trail access: This trail has various access points. Enter from the west off Parmenter Street (just north of the roundabout, the trail passes under Parmenter), east off Century Avenue and Branch Street, or mid-trail at Parisi Park (2405 Park Street).

This paved, two-lane, multi-use trail runs along a creek surrounded by various large, lush trees that provide ample shade for most of the trail. Also along the trail are several wooden bridges. The Pheasant Branch Creek Corridor Trail was completely renovated and reopened in August 2023.

Tiedeman & Stricker Pond Loop:

Distance: 2 miles
Parking and trail access: There are multiple entrances for both ponds; the easiest way to access Tiedeman Pond is through Woodside Heights Park (7202 Voss Parkway) and Stricker Pond through Stricker Park (7605 Voss Parkway); otherwise, there are multiple entrances off of the side streets surrounding each park.

These two glacial kettle ponds are adjacent to each other and are located just minutes from downtown Middleton. A nature trail circles both ponds; users need to walk along Voss Parkway for one block to get between the two loops. This is an excellent path for walkers and birdwatchers.

North Fork Trail:

Distance: 2 miles
Parking and trail access: Penni Klein Park (8780 Airport Road), Firefighters Memorial Park (3201 Pleasant View Road) or at the intersection of US Highway 12 Path, Pheasant Branch Creek Corridor Trail and South Trail A.

This paved greenway takes users by two parks and a scenic pond. At the middle of the trail, just south of Firefighters Memorial Park, veer off to another trail, Hidden Oaks Trail, and after less than a quarter of a mile, Hidden Cave Cidery will be on the left. Users can continue on US Highway 12 Path, Pheasant Branch Creek Corridor Trail or South Trail A at the eastern edge of North Fork Trail.

South Fork Trail:

Distance: 1.7 mile
Parking and trail access: Parking at Quarry Skate Park (7701 Terrace Avenue) on the east and Greenway Station on the west

This trail winds east to west and connects downtown Middleton to Greenway Station and Pleasant View Golf Course. If staying at a hotel in Greenway Station, this two-lane paved trail allows easy access to downtown Middleton via bike or foot.

Lakeview Park Loop:

Distance: 1 mile
Parking and trail access: Lakeview Park (6300 Mendota Avenue)

Located across the street from Lake Mendota is Lakeview Park, Middleton’s largest community park, which offers stunning views and fantastic amenities. The park’s paved path loops a pond and winds through beautiful, lush trees. Users can find multiple benches, fishing docks and a wooden gazebo along the path.

Blackhawk Path:

Distance: 4.5 miles
Parking and trail access: Marshall Park (2101 Allen Boulevard) or Lakeview Park (6300 Mendota Avenue)

This is a popular path for bikers. It travels along University Avenue and eventually connects to other paved trails in Madison. It’s a great way to venture into the State’s capital from Middleton. The western half of the trail winds through tree-filled neighborhoods; as it continues east, you’ll see more shops and restaurants.

1847 at the Stamm House

When dining at the 1847 at the Stamm House, take in a bit of history with each bite. What began as a traveler’s rest stop in 1847 has now been restored into a beautiful place to dine. Enjoy a modern supper club-like menu that includes 12 different pasta dishes, featuring everything from seafood fettuccini to pesto pappardelle to beef Bolognese.

Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano

Head to Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano for a casual Italian dining experience that features house-made and imported pasta. Located on the west side of Middleton, Biaggi’s is a great dining option after a day of shopping at Greenway Station, golfing at Pleasant View Golf Course, or, during winter, cross-country skiing at the CXC Outdoor Center. Biaggi’s also offers a full kids’ menu, making it an excellent place for the whole family.

Gino’s Italian Deli

If looking to host a pasta party, consider ordering all the fixings from Gino’s Italian Deli. Impress your guests with Gino’s Italian Deli’s premaid, party-sized meals, including lasagna and pasta al forno, or pasta salads from the deli. Also available in-store are specialty Italian grocery items to assist in making a pasta dish at home.

Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse

This steakhouse offers an upscale dining option that is complimented with rich Italian dishes. Whether in town for an event at the Madison Marriot West, shopping at Greenway Station or just in the mood for delicious pasta, Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse offers multiple traditional pasta dishes, including fettuccine, angel hair, ravioli and spaghetti. Each dish can be escalated by adding garlic sautéed shrimp, a grilled salmon fillet, grilled chicken, Johnny’s Italian sausage or mushrooms and thick-cut bacon.

Villa Dolce

Step inside Villa Dolce, located in a historic downtown building, for a cozy, authentic Italian meal. This Italian bistro is known for its artisan pizza and gelato but also offers multiple pasta dishes, including shrimp and scallop linguine, wild mushroom ravioli, butternut squash tortellacci and more.

Pheasant Branch Conservancy Wetlands and Ponds – At the center of Pheasant Branch Conservancy, a 549-acre protected natural area, one can find a creek and multiple ponds and wetlands, which attract birds of many types, particularly wading birds and waterfowl. Beautiful paved nature trails circle the marshes, giving birdwatchers opportunities to see visiting cranes, ducks, herons and geese. Jet off the main path onto boardwalks for a better chance to spot birds waiting in the water or feasting in the fields. The conservancy provides a quiet refuge for bird watchers to enjoy serene beauty. View more information on the birds of Pheasant Branch Conservancy here.

Tiedeman Pond Conservancy Area – Located just a few minutes out of downtown Middleton is Tiedeman Pond Conservancy Area, a 25-acre glacial kettle pond and restored wetland. Take a short walk around the pond’s ADA-accessible boardwalk, and you’re sure to spot various wildlife. On the west side of the pond, there is a wildlife-viewing platform that gives birdwatches an even more fantastic opportunity to spot feathered creatures. When at Tiedman Pond, it is common to encounter blue-winged teal, great blue herons, wood ducks, green herons, mallard ducks, Canada geese, cattle egrets, black-crowned night herons and double-crested cormorants.

Esser Pond – Located near Greenway Station, Esser Pond is another great place to see waterfowl. Despite its proximity to U.S. Highway 12 and a busy shopping area, birds love this open water and wetlands complex. A trail along the northern edge of the wetlands leads to and from downtown Middleton making it an ideal nature escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.   

Pheasant Branch Creek Corridor Trail – Streaming through the heart of Middleton is Pheasant Branch Creek, which flows adjacent to a scenic, paved, mixed-use trail. The Pheasant Branch Creek Corridor Trail is 1.4 miles long and can be accessed from multiple points; enter from the west off Parmenter Street, east off Century Avenue or mid-trail at Parisi Park. The woods that line the creek are perfect for seeing migrating songbirds.

Even on days when there aren’t many birds to be found, the fall scenery is ample compensation. This fall, make plans to catch a glimpse of migrating birds and beautiful fall colors in Middleton.

In Wisconsin, most migratory birds will have flown south by the end of November. Here is a great site to check year-round if you are an avid birder! And for tracking seasonal bird traffic, check out this site.

Whether looking to spice up your fall wardrobe or update your home with new seasonal décor, Middleton has you covered with more than 50 shopping options. Check out charming boutique shops in downtown Middleton or head to Greenway Station to discover name-brand stores.

Find a new fall fit

We get it, clothing styles seem to change as fast as the seasons; luckily, Middleton stays up-to-date on fashion trends. Stroll through downtown Middleton and find chic new styles at Tradition Women’s Market, sustainably sourced women’s clothing at Cloth and Metal Boutique, bright-colored women’s apparel at Chauette Fashion & Home and authentic men’s clothing at Journeyman Co. Or, head to Greenway Station, a 51-acre outdoor shopping center, to shop at top-retail brands, like LOFT, J. Jill, Chico’s and more.

Treat the kids to something new

Shopping for kids can be just as fun as shopping for yourself. If looking to dress up the kid in your life, head to Tradition Children’s Market, where you’ll find adorable apparel, toys and accessories for children. See your kid’s imagination soar with a trip to I’m Board! Games & Family Fun, a local board and card game shop that lets you try out some of the games.

Decorate the home

Don’t forget to dress up your home for the season as well. Middleton is home to multiple great home décor stores. When downtown, find something handmade and local at The Regal Find or colorful and cute at Little Pop Color Shop. Head just a few minutes from downtown to The Bruce Company, where you’ll find excellent landscape products and great seasonal décor that will make your home pop from inside to out. At Greenway Station, browse furnishing, accessories and more at HomeGoods and World Market.

Plan a party

From pumpkin carving gatherings to backyard bonfires to tailgate parties, there are many excuses to gather with friends and family this fall. Impress your guests with delicious food and refreshments from somewhere local. Pick up all the fixings for a backyard barbeque at UW Provision, premade charcuterie boards and customized brew packs at Longtable Beer Cafe, America’s favorite condiment, plus other dips and spreads, at the National Mustard Museum, coffee bar ingredients from Barriques or delicious baked goods from Hubbard Avenue Diner, Miggy’s Bakes or Clasen’s European Bakery. Wow your guests even more with adorable decorations and party supplies from Little Pop Color Shop.

LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, was started by the U.S. Green Building Council and is used as a rating system to set standards for cities and community’s sustainable building practices. The Good Neighbor City joined a global network of more than 150 LEED-certified cities and communities, but Middleton is the first municipality in Wisconsin to be identified.

“Climate change is a real and growing threat to our communities, and we need to take action to preserve our way of life, economy, and wellbeing,” said Senator Baldwin.“I am thrilled to see Middleton’s leadership in building a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.”

LEED for Cities and Communities helps local leaders measure and manage progress in community conditions for a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable future.

“Middleton’s achievement—being the first Wisconsin municipality to achieve LEED Certification and earning LEED Gold—is outstanding. I’m proud of my hometown’s commitment to lead by example, and I am confident other Dane County communities will learn from Middleton’s experience and move us even closer to our county-wide sustainability goals,” said Senator Baldwin

Through the certification program, cities and communities create and operationalize responsible, sustainable, and specific plans for natural systems, energy, water, waste, transportation, and many other factors contributing to quality of life.

“With the growing threat of climate change we are all facing, it is important for everyone to find solutions to this crisis. I’m excited to see Middleton being a leader in this effort,” said Wisconsin Representative Alex Joers.

Middleton achieved LEED certification for implementing practical and measurable strategies and solutions aimed at improving sustainability and the standard of living for residents. LEED is designed to help buildings, communities, and cities achieve high performance in critical social, economic, and environmental sustainability areas.

“We are at the forefront in our fight against climate change,” said Mayor Emily Kuhn. “This framework helps us accelerate our progress on sustainability and resilience – leading the way to a better quality of life for our community.”

LEED certification helps demonstrate a city’s commitment to sustainability, human health, and economic prosperity. It helps benchmark a city’s current performance and enables Middleton to measure and track outcomes, which are evaluated against key metrics that include energy, water, waste, transportation, education, health, safety, prosperity and equitability.

“Congratulations to the City of Middleton on this achievement. I appreciate that Middleton is leading in this work that the state and federal governments are failing at,” said Representative Mike Bare.

Most notably, Middleton demonstrated excellence in green space allocation for residents, community-wide renewable energy innovation and a focus on multi-jurisdictional collaboration with the county and other cities on climate mitigation and resiliency projects.

“Middleton proves time and again that we can grow our community and economy both substantially and sustainably,” said State Senator and proud Middleton resident Dianne Hesselbein. “Our city continues to be a regional, state, and national leader and I’m proud to see our leadership recognized for their outstanding stewardship.”

The certification data also highlighted areas where Middleton could improve, including reducing water consumption, greater geographical access and connectivity to civic resources and improving distributional equity disparities in education, income and home ownership.

The City of Middleton joins a global network of more than 154 certified cities and communities.

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About the U.S. Green Building Council

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is committed to a healthy, resilient, and equitable future for all through the development of green buildings, cities, and communities. For more than 20 years, USGBC has been advancing green building practices through the development of LEED, the world’s most widely used green building program. With the support of thousands of members, volunteers, and partners, USGBC provides robust green building education courses, a rigorous professional credentialing program, and advocates for effective public policies. It convenes an international network of green building and sustainability leaders through the annual Greenbuild International Conference & Expo, and forward-thinking programs, including the Center for Green Schools. For more information, visit usgbc.org and connect on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Fall brews (from morning to night)

For an award-winning fall flavor, head to Capital Brewery for a pint of their Oktoberfest. The brewery’s version of Oktoberfest has a deep amber hue with rich malty overtones that pair perfectly with the season. If looking for a fruitier fall beer, Capital Brewery also offers Autumnal Fire, a dark fruit-flavored beer with a rich caramel and toffee finish. Enjoy these beers and others on tap in the brewery’s Bier Garten on lovely fall days. All are welcome to bring in carryout from one of Middleton’s 80 restaurants and cafés.

Hidden Cave Cidery is a local spot to find Wisconsin-made hard ciders on tap and for sale. This cidery was first opened in 2021 by a University of Wisconsin-Madison alum who holds a passion for local agriculture, including, of course, apples! Hidden Cave Cidery’s tap list is updated weekly with new and unique flavors.

Pumpkin spice lattes, chai tea, apple cider and more await at one of Middleton’s many coffee shops. Check out Grace Coffee Co. downtown and its seasonal pastries and drinks, as well as Barriques — the maple pumpkin latte and hot apple cider are a must. When on the northeast side of town, stop into Prairie Café & Bakery to order a seasonal hot drink, as well as a warm breakfast, featuring everything from pumpkin pecan pancakes to seasonal quiche.

Seasonal desserts

Middleton is home to multiple places offering irresistible fall sweet treats. Step into Clasen’s European Bakery for fall goodies, including caramel apples with nuts on top, apple cider donuts, apple pecan bread, pumpkin spice cookies and pumpkin bread. Experience Middleton’s newest bakery, Miggy’s Bakes, on the northeast side of town, and order a seasonal treat that’s nearly too cute to eat — Miggy’s serves bars, cookies, stuffed brownies and cakes to order. When downtown, stop at Hubbard Avenue Diner to choose from various seasonal treats in their dessert case, including caramel apple pie, pumpkin pie, pumpkin walnut cookies and giant fall-themed sugar cookies.

It’s never the wrong time of year to order an ice-cold sweet treat, and in Middleton, there are multiple places to do so. Order a scoop of Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream‘s seasonal flavors, including caramel apple pie, cinnamon stick, pumpkin pie, snap-o-lantern® or witches’ brew ice cream. Or, head to Cold Stone Creamery for this month’s signature Creation, Treat or Treat, featuring Boo Batter ice cream, Kit Kats®, Halloween Oreos® and M&M’s®.

Sweet & savory in a jar

Take home a souvenir unlike any other with one of the National Mustard Museum’s fall favorites, Butternut Mountain Sweet Maple Mustard, Bayfield Apple Mustard, Dr. Pete’s Praline Mustard Glaze, Ole Ray’s Apple/Cinnamon BBQ sauce, and Stonewall Kitchen Fig & Walnut Butter.

Comfort fall favorites

Bite into a savory aged steak at Ruth’s Chris Steak House or a warm and comforting Italian homestyle dish at Villa Dolce. Enjoy a famous Wisconsin fish fry at The Free House Pub, Mid Town Pub or 1847 at Stamm House. Order a classic, delicious burger with gooey fried cheese curds from Craftsman Table & Tap, Longtable Beer Cafe or The Village Green. Hubbard Avenue Diner serves classic home-cooked favorites such as fried chicken, meatloaf and pot roast.  

Cozy up

Fall can bring some cool-weather days, but that’s nothing a steaming hot bowl of soup can’t fix. Warm up with a bowl of ramen, customized to your liking, from Trio Ramen or homemade noodle soup from Taigu Noodles, or step into a cozy café or restaurant to order a bowl of the daily soup from Prairie Café & Bakery, Sofra Family Bistro or Taza Mediterranean Kitchen. And while in the cheese and beer state, try out a bowl of beer cheese soup from Longtable Beer Café.

There is much to be enjoyed in Middleton — get into the season!

Learn more about dining in Middleton.

“Trick or Treat is an opportunity for our neighborhoods and the community to come together to provide a fun, safe environment for children and families to celebrate with one another,” said Mayor Emily Kuhn. “I can’t wait to see everyone’s costumes and decorations this year. Have a safe and fun Halloween, Middleton!”

The Middleton Police Department encourages safety and supervision during the annual Trick or Treat season. It is especially important for parents to adhere to a few safety rules for their children when they are trick-or-treating:

• Know your kid’s route
• Take a flashlight
• Be sure costumes, shoes, and treat bags are safe
• Remind kids not to enter strangers’ homes or cars
• Set rules about not eating treats until kids get home & be sure to inspect all treats before allowing kids to eat them
• Candy that has been opened should be thrown away & any homemade treats or fruit should be inspected closely
• Remember drivers have a hard time seeing people, especially at dusk
• Never cross the street between parked cars
• Watch open flames from jack-o-lanterns as they can catch costumes and long wigs on fire
• Make sure that fake knives, swords & guns are made from cardboard or other flexible materials to avoid accidental injury or worse, have them mistaken for the real thing!

It is also important to ensure that your home is safe and accessible to trick-or-treaters. As adults, there are some very simple things we can do to make the evening safe for everyone:

• Turn on your porch light
• Remove objects from your yard that might present a hazard
• Drive extra carefully all evening.  You never know what creature may suddenly cross your path!
• Report any suspicious or criminal activity to the police

Tis the season to put on a flannel, order a pumpkin spice latte and take a trip to an apple orchard, pumpkin farm or garden center. Whether your favorite fall activity includes biting into a crisp, farm-fresh apple, finding the perfect pumpkin for carving, or picking out mums and other fall patio décor, Middleton is the ideal travel destination to do a bit of it all. Multiple farms and orchards are located within 15 minutes or less from downtown Middleton, making it easy to accomplish everything on your Wisconsin fall bucket list.

Here are five orchards, farms or garden centers in and around Middleton:

The Bruce Company (3 minutes from downtown)

2830 Parmenter St, Middleton, WI 53562

Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday

Located just minutes from downtown, this award-winning outdoor living center is excellent for picking up anything needed to perfect your lawn or decorate your front porch. They also have a variety of pumpkins, gourds and mums in the fall, as well as a fabulous gift shop indoors with seasonal gift items from scarves to artificial pumpkins.

Heise Pumpkin Patch (8 minutes from downtown)

4950 High Rd, Middleton, WI 53562

Hours: 8 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., daily until Oct. 31

This family-owned-and-operated pumpkin patch offers all the fall decorating items one could want, including more than 30 varieties of pumpkins and gourds, large and small straw bales, ornamental corn and corn bundles. Pre-maid pumpkin stacks are also available. Heise Pumpkin Patch accepts cash or checks only.

Kalscheuer’s Family Pumpkin Patch (10 minutes from downtown)

7054 Co Rd K, Middleton, WI 53562

Hours: noon-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays

Located just outside Middleton, this working dairy farm has been in the pumpkin business for more than 60 years and sells some of the most uniquely colored and sized pumpkins. Also for sale are a variety of gourds, straw bales, corn stalks, decorative ears of corn, and acorn and butternut squash. To top it off, there are a variety of adorable farm animals on site to meet. Kalscheuer’s Family Pumpkin Patch accepts cash only.

Enchanted Valley Acres (15 minutes from downtown)

5047 Enchanted Valley Rd, Cross Plains, WI 53528

Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays in September, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday-Sunday in October, also open Thursday, Oct. 19 and 26

Enchanted Valley Acres is a Wisconsin hot spot for fall family fun and entertainment, and it’s just a few miles outside of Middleton. Visitors can spend an entire afternoon enjoying all that this destination offers. Slide down a giant slide, venture through 8 acres of corn mazes, jump on the giant pumpkin bounce pad, compete in multiple outdoor games, walk through the 1937 Big Red Barn filled with numerous family-friendly activities, and pick the perfect pumpkin from the pumpkin patch. Food concessions are also available on-site. Admission is $14-$15.50 depending on the day; view daily admission here.  Admission is not required to visit the pumpkin patch or pre-cut pumpkins, gourds and squash area.

Appleberry Farm (15 minutes from downtown)

8079 Maurer Rd, Cross Plains, WI 53528

Hours: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Sunday

For a charming farm experience, head to Appleberry Farm to pick your own fruit and pumpkins and shop for local goodies in the farm store. Before picking apples or purchasing a pre-packaged bag, sample a variety of apples to ensure you bring home the best. Various fall favorites can be bought in the farm store, including fresh apple cider, apple and mixed berry hand pies (available full-size or by the slice), caramel apples, apple cider donuts, ice cream and hard cider.

Additional orchards and farms in the area:  

• Epplegarden, Fitchburg (20 minutes from downtown)
• Door Creek Orchard, Cottage Grove (22 minutes from downtown)
• Eugster’s Farm Market, Stoughton (23 minutes from downtown)
• Anderson’s Pleasant Patch Pumpkins, Cottage Grove (25 minutes from downtown)
• Treinen Farm, Lodi (25 minutes from downtown)
• Schuster’s Farm, Deerfield (27 minutes from downtown)
• Sutter’s Ridge Farm, Mount Horeb (30 minutes from downtown)
• Alpine Ridge Orchard, Brooklyn (30 minutes from downtown)
• Ski-Hi Fruit Farm, Baraboo (35 minutes from downtown)

Congratulations to all the Middleton businesses who won gold, silver and bronze for the Best of Madison 2023 awards. A total of 39 Middleton businesses were awarded, see the list below.

A full list of all the Best of Madison 2023 winners can be found here.

Food and Drink

• Bakery – Bread: Clasen’s European Bakery (bronze)
• Bar for beer: Longtable Beer Cafe (bronze)
• Breakfast: Hubbard Avenue Diner (silver)
• Burger: Nitty Gritty (bronze)
• Chicken Wings: Monk’s Bar & Grill (silver)
• Chinese: Imperial Garden (gold), Taigu (silver)
• Coffee Roasters: Barriques (silver)
• Coffee Shop: Grace Coffee Co. (bronze)
• Diner: Hubbard Avenue Diner (silver)
• Fried cheese curd: Craftsman Table & Tap (silver)
• Ice cream: Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Co. (gold)
• Margarita: Pasqual’s Cantina (silver)
• New Orleans/Cajun Style: Louisianne’s Etc. (gold)
• Sports Bar: Monk’s Bar & Grill (bronze)

Shopping

• Specialty Food Store: Willy Street Co-op (silver), National Mustard Museum (bronze)
• Gift shop/specialty store: National Mustard Museum (bronze)
• Grocery Store: Willy Street Co-op (bronze)
• Jeweler: Chalmers Jewelers (silver)
• Outdoor living: The Bruce Company (silver)
• Shoes: DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse (bronze)

Health and Recreation

• Alternative Fitness Center: Burn Boot Camp (gold)
• Golf Course: Pleasant View Golf Course (silver)
• Golf instructor: Jeremy Cabalka, Pleasant View Golf Course (silver)
• Martial Arts Studio: Silver Lining Taekwon-do (gold)

Car Dealerships and Auto Body and Shops

• Auto body repair: Zimbrick (gold)
• Auto Parts: Zimbrick (gold), O’Reilly Auto Parts (silver), NAPA (bronze)
• Dealer Auto Service Shop: Zimbrick (gold)
• Domestic Auto Dealer: Zimbrick (gold)
• Import auto dealer: Zimbrick (gold)
• Used car dealer: Schoepp Motors (bronze)

Banking and Financial Services

• Mortgage Lender: Summit Credit Union (gold), UW Credit Union (silver)
• Wealth Management: Summit Credit Union (silver)
• WI Bank: Lake Ridge Bank (gold), Associated Bank (silver), Park Bank (bronze)
• Wisconsin Credit Union: UW Credit Union (gold), Summit Credit Union (silver)

Medical Services

• Assisted Living: Attic Angel Community (silver)
• Chiropractor: LSM Chiropractic (gold)
• Cosmetic Surgery Center: Robertson Cosmetic Center (gold)
• Dental Practice: First Choice Dental (silver)
• Eye Care:  Isthmus Eye Care (silver)
• Retirement Community: Attic Angel Community (gold)

Other Services:

• Dry Cleaner: Master Cleaners (bronze)
• Exterior Cleaning Services: Skyline Services Inc (silver)
• Flooring:  Nonn’s (gold)
• Kitchen & Bath Design:  Nonn’s (gold)
• Lawn, Garden & Landscape: The Bruce Company (gold)

Wisconsin is not only home to the highest percentage of German-Americans, but also the first-ever Oktoberfest celebration in the United States. Because of this, and our state’s love for craft beer, Wisconsinites celebrate Oktoberfest in a big way — including here in Middleton. Whether you have German heritage or not, Sept. 16 is the kickoff of this popular German holiday and here are five ways you can celebrate.

Capital Brewery

Fall in Middleton isn’t complete without a stop at Capital Brewery & Bier Garten for a fall-flavored craft beer. You’re in for a treat when ordering Capital Brewery’s Oktoberfest — this brew has won 11 gold and eight silver medals since it was first brewed in 1989. Capital Brewery also offers Autumnal Fire, another sought-after and award-winning craft beer, for a fruitier take on fall. You can enjoy these beers and others on tap in the brewery’s Bier Garten on lovely fall days.

Capital Brewery is also hosting not one but two Oktoberfest events. For an event that offers a bit of exercise on top of celebrating, check out Capital Brewery and the Arthritis Foundation’s Oktoberfest Ride for Arthritis on Saturday, Sept. 16. Choose to bike the 100K, 50K, 25K or 5K family ride. After the ride, cyclists and non-cyclists are invited to celebrate Oktoberfest at Capital Brewery with themed food, drinks, raffles and live music. Learn more here.

For an event solely focused on Oktoberfest festivities, head over to Capital Brewery on Saturday, Sept. 23, for their third annual Oktoberfest. From 1-10 p.m., there will be live music, fun crowd activities and lots of seasonal beer! Learn more here.

Clasen’s European Bakery

You may be remiss if you don’t stop at Clasen’s European Bakery this Oktoberfest season. Clasen’s offers an assortment of old-world style bread, rolls, cakes, pastries, wedding cakes and confections — handcrafted and based on an original 1959 German recipe. Whether looking for a delicious dessert or a handmade Bavarian soft pretzel, this bakery offers an authentic taste of German food that pairs well with just about any Oktoberfest activity.

Craftsman Table and Tap

Throughout September and October, Craftsman Table & Tap will offer Oktoberfest specials, including seasonal beers from both craft and traditional breweries, as well as a jumbo pretzel board swerved with pub cheese dip, stone ground mustard, house sweet pub mustard, and sweet curry pickles. Every Thursday, Oktoberfest beers will be sold for $5.

Longtable Beer Cafe

Throughout the season, Longtable will have a variety of Oktoberfest brews on tap and in their cooler (a wall of almost 300 different beers). Rotating taps will always feature a German and domestic Oktoberfest option, including Hacker-Pschorr, Ayinger, Three Sheeps, Half Acre, Badger State, and New Glarus Brewing.

National Mustard Museum

If interested in hosting an Oktoberfest celebration, the National Mustard Museum is a great place to get authentic German fixings. And if celebrating Oktoberfest with a sizzling German bratwurst, head to the National Mustard Museum for the perfect topping. This year, the National Mustard Museum has also put together an Oktoberfest gift box filled with Kathi’s German Pretzel Mix, Lowensenf Honey Mustard, Alstertor Dusseldorf Mustard and Handelmaier Bavarian Mustard.

The Free House Pub

In addition to The Free House Pub offering Oktoberfest beer on tap all season long, they are also hosting an OktoBEERfest Party from 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 23. This event will prost to the end of patio season as well as feature German-themed food specials such as brat burgers, German knockwurst on a stick, mustard flights, pretzel bites and hot apple strudel braids. From noon – 4 p.m., a keg will flow and a grill will run on the patio. Celebrate the season with beer, food and fun!

Catch a variety of Oktoberfest beers all fall long at many restaurants across Middleton.