National Geographic on Tuesday revealed that Madison is on its list of the 25 must-visit destinations for 2027.
Madison was selected by the editors and writers of National Geographic to be part of its Best of the World list along with places in Egypt, Norway, Japan, Peru and more.
In describing Madison as the Midwest’s most effortless getaway, the publication cited Madison’s lakes, bike paths and attractions such as Olbrich Botanical Gardens, the Dane County Farmers’ Market and the new Madison Public Market.
The publication said Best of the World looks beyond the obvious to highlight places where new openings, landmark anniversaries and other factors create new ways to experience a destination.
Travel experts joined the publications editors and writers in compiling the 2027 list.
“This recognition reflects the things we love about Madison — our farm to table cuisine; our abundance of arts and culture; our accessible lakes and public parks; our walkable streets and ample public transportation; and so much more,” Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway said in a press release.
“Visitors to Madison can experience our community’s values in an authentic and memorable way,” Rhodes-Conway said. “We are thankful National Geographic recognizes that in Madison and is sharing how special we are with the world.”
Ellie Westman Chin, president and CEO of Destination Madison, said the organization is beaming with pride for the global recognition.
“Being named as one of the best places in the world to visit is a testament to the hundreds of businesses and thousands of people in our local hospitality industry who make visitors feel like they belong in Madison,” Westman Chin said in a press release. “This honor will bring more people to Madison and Dane County to discover the countless gems that will make their visits memorable.”
For more of Nat Geo’s BEST OF THE WORLD 2027 list, visit natgeo.com/bestoftheworld
