Sponsored by

Create excitement at the start

The airport can make a lot of parents overcome with anxiety and stress. Getting through TSA with your children can be a stressful undertaking and waiting for your flight while keeping the kids occupied is not easy. However, there are a few ways to make these moments fun and exciting and give your children a sense of adventure. If you have some time before your flight, take the kids on a scavenger hunt and see how many out of country flights they can find, what’s the farthest destination that is flying out, or how many states. Make the airport a destination of wonder and excitement. That might lessen your stress and anxiety as well.

In today’s newsletter:

• Travel News this Week

• City Spotlight: Madison, Wisconsin

  • Who should go?

  • When should we go?

  • What should we see?

  • Where should we eat?

  • Why Madison?

• Travel Hacks

Travel News this Week

• Go to Gadgets: Which gadgets should you get for your next travel adventure?

• Packing for the summer: What should be in your suitcase for the summer?

• Guidelines for carry-ons: Understanding the rules for different airlines and their carry on protocol.

Looking for unbiased, fact-based news? Join 1440 today.

Join over 4 million Americans who start their day with 1440 – your daily digest for unbiased, fact-centric news. From politics to sports, we cover it all by analyzing over 100 sources. Our concise, 5-minute read lands in your inbox each morning at no cost. Experience news without the noise; let 1440 help you make up your own mind. Sign up now and invite your friends and family to be part of the informed.

Subscribe to 1440 today.

City Spotlight: Madison, Wisconsin

Nestled between two stunning lakes, Monona and Mendota, with a vibrant state capitol at its heart, Madison, Wisconsin, offers an engaging escape for families seeking a dynamic blend of outdoor recreation, stimulating cultural experiences, and a welcoming, Midwestern charm. From scenic lake paths and vibrant farmers' markets to innovative museums and a thriving food scene, Madison promises a memorable experience for all ages. Get ready to embrace the spirited atmosphere and natural beauty of this Badger State gem with your crew!

Who should go to Madison?

Families who love the outdoors, appreciate intellectual curiosity, and enjoy a lively yet approachable city atmosphere will find Madison irresistible. If your family enjoys biking, paddling, exploring fascinating downtown areas, indulging in local flavors, and connecting with both nature and history, Madison is calling your name. It's a fantastic destination for families with kids of all ages, offering everything from accessible parks and playgrounds to engaging educational activities for teens.

When should we go?

Summer (June-August) is the most popular time to visit Madison, with warm weather perfect for lake activities, biking, and outdoor festivals. Fall (September-October) offers beautiful foliage, cooler temperatures ideal for walking, and the excitement of Badger football. Spring (May) is lovely with blossoming flowers, though the lakes can still be chilly. Winter (December-March) is picturesque with opportunities for ice skating and nearby skiing, but many lake-focused activities will be closed.

What should we see?

Madison boasts a fantastic mix of natural beauty and urban charm for families. Here are a few must-sees:

• Olbrich Botanical Gardens: Explore 16 acres of outdoor gardens, including a stunning Thai Pavilion and Garden, and the Bolz Conservatory, a 50-foot-high glass pyramid filled with tropical plants, flowers, and free-flying birds.

• Henry Vilas Zoo: A free-admission zoo featuring a wide variety of animals from around the world, as well as a carousel and train ride. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll and animal encounters.

• Children's Museum of Madison: This interactive museum offers engaging, hands-on exhibits designed for children from infancy through early adolescence, fostering creativity and learning through play.

• State Street & Capitol Square: A lively pedestrian-only street connecting the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus to the Wisconsin State Capitol. It's filled with unique shops, diverse restaurants, and often street performers. Capitol Square hosts one of the largest producer-only farmers' markets in the country on Saturdays during warmer months.

Where should we eat?

Madison's food scene emphasizes fresh, local ingredients with options for every palate. Here are a few kid-friendly favorites:

• Ian's Pizza on State: Famous for its creative and delicious New York-style pizza, including unique topping combinations that appeal to all ages. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

• Graze: Located on Capitol Square, Graze offers modern comfort food made with locally sourced ingredients in a welcoming atmosphere. Their menu has options that appeal to both adults and children.

• Dotty Dumpling's Dowry: A Madison institution, this spot is known for its incredible burgers, vast beer selection (for the adults!), and lively, casual atmosphere.

• Dane County Farmers' Market (Saturdays on Capitol Square): Beyond fresh produce, you'll find an array of local food vendors offering everything from pastries and cheeses to ready-to-eat meals, perfect for a picnic by the lake.

Why Madison?

Madison offers a refreshing and enriching family travel experience, seamlessly blending outdoor adventure with a vibrant, welcoming city atmosphere. Its prime location between two lakes and the presence of a top-tier university provides endless opportunities for recreation, intellectual stimulation, and beautiful scenery. The city's commitment to local, sustainable practices extends to its thriving food scene and unique shops, making for an authentic and enriching visit. Madison provides a relaxed yet engaging backdrop for families seeking to reconnect with nature, learn something new, and enjoy the true spirit of the Midwest.

Travel Hacks

• When you are at a restaurant, wash your hands after ordering. The menus are usually the dirtiest thing you can touch.

• Make sure you pack a spare set of clothes for your kids in your carry on. In case one of those “accidents” occur, you’ll be ready.

• Check out the exchange rates at different places in the country you’re going to visit. It might be cheaper to exchange money at your bank before you leave if the rates aren’t what you were hoping for.