Madison sits on an isthmus between Lake Mendota (the big one) and Lake Monona (the smaller one). They are both beautiful!
The Lowell Center (our hotel headquarters) is must one block from Lake Mendota and the Wisconsin Union sits right on the shore. You can also walk along Lake Mendota along the Lakeshore Path or even rent a boat!
From the Wisconsin Capitol, you can walk to Monona Terrace, a Frank Lloyd Wright designed conference center. Monona Terrace is beautiful and worth a visit. There are lovely views of Lake Monona from the top of the building (accessible from the street). You can also rent a boat!