07/07/25

Around Town

Bakery, Bikes, Brews: A Day on The Capital City Trail

Whether you’re a local looking for a new weekend ritual or a visitor hoping to experience Madison like a pro, one of the best ways to see the city is by bike — and there’s no better route than the Capital City Trail.

This mostly paved, scenic trail weaves through downtown, lakeshores, leafy parks, and vibrant neighborhoods — and better yet, it’s lined with some of Madison’s tastiest bakeries and breweries.

Stop 1: Brunch at Batch Bakehouse

📍 1402 Williamson St
📍 Right off the Capital City Trail (Marquette/Atwood neighborhood)

Start your ride at the east end of the trail with one of the best bakeries in the Midwest — Batch Bakehouse. Housed in a charming corner brick building, Batch crafts everything from buttery croissants and seasonal danishes to  Épis de Blé and crusty baguettes.

Pro tip: Grab an extra pastry for the road — you’ll want it later.

Cruising the Capital City Trail

From Batch Bakehouse, hop on the Capital City Trail and cruise west along Lake Monona, through Law Park, and into the heart of downtown Madison. You’ll pass under tree canopies, along lakeside paths, and even see glimpses of the Capitol dome.

Keep an eye out for murals and historic signage — Madison is full of micro-moments worth stopping for.

Stop 2: Working Draft Beer Company

📍 1129 E Wilson St
📍 Directly off the Cap City Trail (just before downtown)

Tucked into a converted warehouse, Working Draft Beer Co. is a cyclist’s dream: local art on the walls, bike racks outside, and a rotating list of juicy IPAs, clean lagers, and sessionable saisons. You’ll find riders here all weekend long — it’s become a gathering point for the biking community.

Bonus: If you’re riding with friends, the patio is shaded and pup-friendly.

Stop 3: Giant Jones Brewing Company

📍 931 E Main St, Suite 9
📍 A short hop from the Cap City Trail near East Washington Ave

Finish your loop with Giant Jones, a hidden gem in the city’s small-batch brewing scene. Certified organic and women-owned, they specialize in high-ABV Belgian-style ales and bold experimental beers — not your typical post-ride pint, but absolutely worth the detour.

Pro tip: They also host regular art nights, tastings, and educational events — perfect if your ride turns into a longer hang.

Choose Your Own Adventure

There is a surplus of delicious bakery, brunch, and breweries along the Capital City Trail, so don’t be afraid to get out there and explore! Here are a few of our additional favorite pit stops on or near the trail:

• Bakery: Reverie Baking Co, Madison Sourdough
• Brunch: Sardine, Ancora, Monty’s Blue Plate Diner
• Brews: Starkweather Brewing Company, Delta Beer Lab, State Line

Wrap-Up: Madison by Bike, Bites & Brews

Madison is built for days like this: breezy rides, local flavor, and a lake view around every bend. With places like Batch Bakehouse, Working Draft, and Giant Jones all a pedal away, you don’t have to choose between brunch and beer — you can have both, and see the city in the process.