Did you know that one of the best views in all the state can be had at the state Capitol Building in Madison?

Way up high, on the 6th floor, is an observation deck that’s only open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. You can access the deck from the fourth floor – so you have to be able to make it up the two flights of stairs. But once you do you’ll be rewarded with 360 degree views of our capitol city. With a good wide shot lens, you can actually get a picture of the entire isthmus, with bits of Lake Mendota and Lake Monona showing on each side.

If you don’t know to look for it, you probably look right past the balcony that sits at the bottom of the dome. But once you see it, you wonder why you never thought to see if it was open tot he public before.

Flickr/Bryan Wolf

Sure, the views from up there are unparalleled and rather stunning.

Flickr/Christian Wilcox

But you also get an up-close and personal view of all the stunning architecture, artwork and sculpture on this part of the building. It’s a stunning and unique view that you’ll be so happy you took advantage of.

Flickr/Katie Wheeler

To the west, take in State Street and on to the rest of UW’s campus with Lake Mendota on the right.

Flickr/Christian Wilcox

This view down W. Washnington leads to the Kohl Center and beyond to the UW Arboretum.

Flickr/Christian Wilcox

To the east is Frank Lloyd Wright’s Monona Terrace and Lake Monona.

Flickr/Christian Wilcox

Looking down E. Washington towards the airport and the interstate.

Flickr/christian wilcox

The observation deck, as mentioned above, is only open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. It’s accessible Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 3:45 p.m.

Flickr/Christian Wilcox

It’s a steep set of stairs, but there’s a small museum about the Capitol and these spectacular views waiting for you at the end.

Flickr/Bryan Siders

Why not head to Madison on a Saturday morning for their amazing Farmer’s Market – one of the largest in the country? Get your fill of fresh produce strolling the capitol square before heading up to the observation deck. Sounds like a perfect day!

Flickr/Bryan Wolf

Flickr/Christian Wilcox

Flickr/Katie Wheeler

Flickr/christian wilcox

Flickr/Bryan Siders

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.