Whether you need to find a gift for a special occasion or you just want to treat yourself, it can be challenging to know where to find the best shopping in in Madison. Sure, we have our fair share of shopping centers and malls, but there are other areas of Madison in which you can shop to your heart’s content. Here’s a look at both.
Hilldale Mall
Located on Madison's West Side, Hilldale Mall is one of Madison's hottest shopping venues. It was completely redone in recent years and is now home to high-end eateries and designer stores, such as Kate Spade, Michale Kors and others. Check out the directory here. While you're there, be sure to stop in at Bowl of Heaven and say hello to my friend Celia Garcia. Hilldale Mall is located at 726 N Midvale Blvd.
Greenway Station
No, Greenway Station isn't a mega-mall, which is probably why it's so popular. With more than 35 shops and restaurants, however, it's far more than a stripmall. I love this place -- from the way it's laid out to the just-right choice of retailers. Check the website before you go for current specials. This week, for instance, you can earn a $10 credit for turning in your old hockey stick at Total Hockey (see the details on that one here). Greenway Station is located in Middleton at 1620 Deming Wy.
State Street
Downtown Madison has some of the best shopping in the country, as far as we’re concerned. On State Street you’ll find plenty of small shops, boutiques, bars and eateries, many of them locally owned. If you can’t find what you’re looking for here then you may not find it anywhere; it’s that eclectic.
East Point Plaza
More of a strip mall than a shopping center, East Point Plaza is a handy place to stop off to get your hair or nails done or do a bit of shopping. It offers a fun variety of stores, from a bike shop to a thrift store and even an Indian restaurant. You'll find East Point Plaza at 1601 Thierer Rd.
Monroe Street
A neighborhood with plenty of great shops and restaurant, Monroe Street is a very popular area for shopping. If you prefer independent boutiques, art galleries, antique stores and other unique shops, this is the place for you.
Johnson Creek Premium Outlets
Outlet centers typically provide good value for the money, but it can be hit or miss. If you can hit the stores on a day when they’re offering extra savings you’ll love shopping here. One of the exceptions to this rule is the Nike store at Johnson Creek. It’s a clearance outlet and we’ve always found bargains here.
There are 60 outlet stores at Johnson Creek, including Coach, Polo Ralph Lauren, Banana Republic, Motherhood Maternity and more. You’ll find the outlets 575 West Linmar Ln. (on I-94), in Johnson Creek.
Willy Street
Ah, we’ve saved our favorite for last. Especially if you’re seeking a unique gift, the shops along Willy Street will be the place to go. Plus, the dining options along Willy are so much more attractive than a food court at the malls. We LOVE Ace Hardware. Don’t laugh until you’ve been inside – it’s amazing. From popping in to get a copy of your house key to shopping for cookware, it’s fun to browse the variety of “stuff” Ace offers. Another must-shop is Pieces Unimagined.
Sure, we can’t cover all the shopping opportunities in Madison, but we hit the ones we’re asked about most often. If none of these fill the bill for you, check out:
- West Towne Mall - 66 West Towne Mall
Posted by Jolenta Averill on