The area now known as Madison had native inhabitants long before the arrival of European settlers. Of all the indigenous tribes, the Ho-Chunk, also known as the Winnebago, are known to be the primary inhabitants of the region. Other native inhabitants included the Meskwaki (Fox) and Sauk. The modern history of Madison begins in 1829 with the arrival of James Duane Doty. The former federal judge who became a speculative land trader bought more than 1000 acres of swamp and forest land lying on the isthmus between Lake Mendota and Monona. He named it Madison, after the fourth president of the United States, James Madison, in 1836. Upon creating the Wisconsin Territory that same year, Doty lobbied the legislature to set Madison as the state capital of Wisconsin. His bid was successful, and one of the initial plans was to build a university there. Although the forest and swampy area hadn't been habited yet, construction of a capitol building got underway in 1837. The first seating of the legislature took place in October 1838. Finally, Wisconsin became a state in 1848, and Madison remained its capital, though it was not incorporated until 1856. Madison's original capitol house was replaced in 1863, but this was burned down in 1904. The existing capitol house was constructed between 1906 and 1917. The government has been largely the primary employer, led by institutions such as the University of Wisconsin-Madison. However, the economy has seen a shift to become service-based as companies in biotech, health, technology, and advertising continue to shape the economy. With more than 45% of the population being holders of a university degree, the city has a positive future outlook. A distinguishing factor of Madison is the street layout and the general architecture. The city is divided into a few major commercial areas, namely: Park Street, Monroe Street, State Street, Capitol Square, and Willy Street. Such organized living makes it attractive to buy a condo - Madison, WI. The architecture of the city is also a reflection of style and creativity. Notable buildings include the Overture Center, Renaissance Revival University, and Unity Chapel.

The city of Madison is well endowed with a natural atmosphere that allows unlimited indoor and outdoor fun. The lakes surrounding the city are its first centers of leisure. There are more activities to relax your mind. Here are a few:

Olbrich Botanical Gardens
We all love green spaces in the city, and they become more attractive when they are within easy reach of the city. The Olbrich Botanical Gardens sits along the shore of Lake Monona and makes one of the most exquisite spaces in the city. It has grown since 1952, and the landscape is nothing short of stunning.

Henry Vilas Zoo
This fee-free zoo has remained a significant attraction for locals and tourists. Over 600 animals from 250 species have found a home in the 28 acres sanctuary. It offers one of the best interactions you can ever have with wildlife from all over the world.

Camp Randall Stadium
The magnificent sporting ground was built in 1917 and has hosted incredible events over the years. It's found within the University of Wisconsin and is the base of The Badgers basketball team. This is one of the places to build memories from action-packed events.