Madison, Explained

What locals have been wondering.

Latest

UW-Madison Professor Receives Nobel Prize in Physics

Discover the backstory behind UW-Madison professor Francis Halzen's Nobel Prize in physics for pioneering the IceCube Neutrino Observatory at the South Pole.

Rob ThomasOct 7, 2026

What To Know About The Proposed BECI Transmission Line

The 190-mile BECI high-voltage transmission line aims to secure Wisconsin’s grid, but locals and the Dane County Board are demanding delays over data center ties and land rights.

Rob ThomasSep 28, 2026

Know the Constitutional Amendments On Your Fall Ballot

Wisconsin's Nov. 3 election features key governor and legislative races—plus three Republican-backed constitutional amendments. Learn what's on the ballot.

Rob ThomasSep 22, 2026

Big Changes Planned For Madison’s Breese Stevens Field

As Breese Stevens enters its second century, its owners plan to increase the number of concerts and events. But some neighbors of the field aren’t happy about it. Here’s a look at the past, present and future of Breese Stevens Field.

Rob ThomasSep 21, 2026

The House on the Rock Is Even Weirder Than You Think

Located about an hour west of Madison, The House on the Rock is one of Wisconsin's most infamous, and certainly oddest, tourist attractions. Take a tour inside, from the giant carousel to the vertigo-inducing "Infinity Room."

Rob ThomasSep 15, 2026

How To Guard Against Ticks in Wisconsin This Fall

Tick season isn't over yet. Learn what to expect from fall tick activity in Dane County and get expert tips on how to protect yourself and your family.

Rob ThomasSep 15, 2026

How Voit Farm Will Transform Madison’s East Side

For 160 years, the 65-acre Voit Farm was a Madison fixture. Explore the ambitious new redevelopment plan bringing hundreds of homes, green space, and affordable housing to the city's east side.

Rob ThomasAug 31, 2026

Test Your Madison News Knowledge!

This week's news quiz dives into everything from a new downtown restaurant to a big shake-up at UW-Madison. Can you get every question right?

Rob ThomasAug 24, 2026

Uncovering the Ghosts of Madison’s Wonder Bar

Discover the history of Madison's Wonder Bar Steakhouse as neighbors fight to save the Prohibition-era mobster hangout from a developer's demolition plans.

Rob ThomasAug 20, 2026

Fitchburg Took Down Flock Cameras, But Will Test Others

Fitchburg ends its Flock Safety license plate reader contract over privacy concerns, testing alternatives from Axon and Motorola despite expert skepticism.

Rob ThomasAug 18, 2026