State Street Historic Architecture Walking Tour
That Great Street!
Step back in time to discover how a "paper city" layout from 1836 evolved into Madison’s most iconic thoroughfare. This tour highlights the architectural transition of State Street from a muddy residential lane to a vibrant commercial and cultural link between the State Capitol and the University of Wisconsin. You’ll explore a timeline of architecture, from the Italianate sandstone of the 1855 Willett S. Main St. building to the grand movie palaces of the 1920s and the modern transformation of the Overture Center. Along the way, you'll hear stories of Civil War soldiers and the political demonstrations that have shaped the soul of "That Great Street."
This tour has been updated!
*We will be using the headset system on this tour. Each guest will have their own listening device that fits over your ear.
Meet: Michelangelo's Coffee House (exact location will be in your event confirmation email)
After the Tour: Stop by the Chocolate Shoppe, 468 State St., and get a single scoop of ice cream in a cake cone, sugar cone, or dish with your ticket.
Length: Approximately 1 1/2 hours
Cost: $15 Adult, $5 Student, $5 Madison Trust Members, free for children under 5
*You will notice that the booking fee (ticketing site fee) and transaction fee (credit card fee) are included in the ticket price. As a small nonprofit, events such as this are a fundraiser and incorporating in fees helps us continue these informative and enjoyable tours.
Online reservations are required. Ticket sales close 24 hours before the tour start time. Member are required to enter their Member ID when buying tickets.
As a courtesy to guests on the waitlist, please cancel your ticket(s) if your plans change. Refunds will be issued up to three (3) days (72 hours) prior to your tour. Ticket fees are nonrefundable.
Weather: We will be there rain or shine! See our website for cancellation exceptions.
Interested in joining the Madison Trust? Learn more about membership.
For tour details and to view all our 2026 tours, see our Historic Architecture Walking Tours.
Special thanks to our Tour Partner!
