Welcome to Monona
Located far enough away from the capital, yet close enough to escape the city’s hustle and bustle, Monona has its own style, culture, and breathtaking views.
My tour guide was Monona East Side Alliance Executive Director, Devin Renner.
Devin must have been a boy scout because he had everything I needed – and more.
First stop: True Coffee Roasters
The test of an actual city is its coffee. For the best, we stopped at True Coffee Roasters, where they “roast” on one principle, “staying true to the bean.”
But please, if you’re going to give me decaf, tell me! True friends don’t give friends decaf. Come on, Devin!
Monona Bike Loop
One of the most incredible things about this bicycle-friendly community is the Monona Bike Loop. Leading the charge, and I mean battery-charge, is MadisonBCycle.
Getting around the town is super fun and easy. Bike stations are strategically placed throughout the city so that you can bike anywhere on these fabulous battery-powered bikes. Oh yeah, you can turn the battery off and use your muscles, but what fun is that?
The Cozy Home
Exercise and being outside is great, but a girl’s gotta shop! Monona has you covered with the Cozy Home and Consignment Shop. From quality pieces to timeless designs, this place is an oasis of vintage to modern home goods. And the perfect place for a little Big Lebowski convo. Thanks, Dude! – Ah, I mean Devin.
Rating Monona’s Bloody Mary’s
It was time to get serious, and for that, we stopped at two of Monona’s favorite watering holes in search of the best Bloody Mary.
The Silver Eagle Bar & Grill was up to par with their classic cocktail. So much so that I plan to return for the BOGO Happy Hours.
Down the street, we stopped at the famous Waypoint Public House that has returned to action since being slowed down by the pandemic. The time off didn’t affect their style, as the Bloody Mary’s were on point. Did I mention they have tons of upscale brews to select also? Choices, choices.
Final Stop: The Bait Shop
Our final stop was where Devin and I got our groove on. Who doesn’t like to dance for ice cream – and Babcock Hall Ice Cream to boot!
Like stepping back in time, the Bait and Ice Cream Shop is ideally located on the bike path that circles Lake Monona. So you can get a cone and grab some bait before casting your first line for your next big fish story.
