The best things to do in Dane County

“If you like your rounds with a side of tradition and post-game hangs, Nakoma Golf Club blends a beautiful course, a friendly membership, and year-round, family-friendly social events, racquet sports, pools, firepits, and patio cafe dining. It feels like a neighborhood hub, not just 18.”

From the Madison newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Family owned for 20+ years, Ten Pin Alley is the kind of Fitchburg standby that handles everything from league nights to last-minute birthdays and volleyball. Roll a few frames, then head to the multi-level sports bar for pool, darts, jukebox picks and 20-plus taps... a low-key win for midweek or weekends.”

From the Fitchburg newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Golf course set on 168 acres with tree-lined fairways and challenging holes.”

“League night vibes, friendly 2-person scrambles, and a driving range where you can work out that mid-iron mystery, The Bridges Golf Course keeps golf fun without the fuss. This week, book a tee time, hit the pro shop, then refuel at the on-site restaurant like a champ.”

From the Richland Center newsletter, October 15, 2026

“When the group chat stalls, Spare Time Madison has you bowling on luxury lanes with giant video screens, leveling up in a huge arcade, battling in laser tag, or cracking escape rooms, then refueling with hand-tossed pizzas, chef-crafted burgers, and a full bar.”

From the Madison newsletter, August 11, 2026

“Reindahl Park Splash Pad is your no-fuss way to beat August heat, with plenty of splashy action that is always free. When the kiddos need a breather, the surrounding playground, courts, and wide open fields make it easy to switch gears and stay outside a little longer.”

From the Madison newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Yahara Hills Golf Course features a renovated 18 in 2026 that locals will appreciate for its wide fairways, large greens and multiple tees, a combo that lets you swing away then chase birdies. City owned and proudly Madison, it’s a reliable place to groove the swing with friends.”

From the Madison newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Hilltop public golf course with 27 holes plus a par 3 course, practice area & grill restaurant.”

“Large-scale indoor trampoline center hosting open jump, fitness classes, dodgeball & parties.”

“Aftershock Classic Arcade brings a games-first vibe with 80s and 90s cabinets, legit pinball, air hockey, and the quirky Bartari 2600. Family friendly, inclusive, and stocked for both high-score chasers and casual button mashers... a low-stakes, high-fun night close to home.”

From the Madison newsletter, October 6, 2026

“Geeks Mania Arcade packs classic cabinets, pinball, skee-ball, air hockey and pool, plus wild extras like a giant six-player X-Men setup, so grab a friend this week and see who still has the reflexes to rule Paperboy and Ms. Pac-Man.”

From the Madison newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Vitense Golfland packs a heated Toptracer range with 25 Golf Suites, plus one indoor and two outdoor mini golf courses, batting cages, and Wisconsin’s first and only lighted 9-hole golf and footgolf course. Grab a bay, get Babes at Vitense Grill & Bar service, and call it your most productive 'practice' this week.”

From the Madison newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Maple Bluff Country Club is that rare members-only spot where golf days roll into pool time, racquet matches, and a legit dining scene. Expect a polished course, a golf simulator and pro shop, junior sports and fitness, plus space to host those milestone celebrations without leaving the neighborhood.”

From the Madison newsletter, September 3, 2026

“University of Wisconsin’s golf course, with 5 sets of tees, is open to the public.”

“Whether you're sneaking out after work or hunting a tidy card, Monona Golf Course on Madison's east side brings a 9-hole, par-36 test with well-bunkered fairways and greens. Dial in the swing on the large all-natural grass tee driving range, then regroup in the fully equipped clubhouse or plan a small outing.”

From the Sun Prairie newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Cinematheque - University Wisconsin Madison reliably programs the films you keep meaning to see, from new international standouts to pristine 4K restorations and the occasional 35mm treat. Thoughtful, curator-driven lineups make it feel like a film class you actually want to attend.”

“TPC Wisconsin reopened in 2023 as the 30th TPC Network club after a Steve Stricker redesign that elevated the former Cherokee course. Expect pristine holes near Cherokee Marsh, a legit Golf Academy, and that private-club polish your game has been quietly begging for this week.”

From the Madison newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.”

“The Glen Golf Park is a well-kept, short par-3 playground with practice putting greens, perfect for a fast loop or tuning the wedges. Booking is easy with the city’s new mobile-friendly system, plus a dedicated app with digital scorecards and a built-in rangefinder.”

From the Madison newsletter, September 30, 2026

“Flix Brewhouse Madison mashes blockbuster flicks with a legit dine-in menu and on-site brews, so you can hit a button from a luxury recliner and summon wings, hand-tossed pizza, or a Nebulas Hazy IPA. Great for a weeknight escape, date night, or a private screening with your crew.”

From the Sun Prairie newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Thrill Factory Entertainment packs arcade games, bowling, escape rooms, laser tag, mini golf, VR, and an indoor playground into one spot at East Towne Mall, complete with animatronic dragons. Come for the family chaos, stay for homemade eats, a tiki bar, and weekly bingo, trivia, and karaoke.”

From the Madison newsletter, October 13, 2026