We know Halloween just wrapped up, but it’s never too early to get your holiday photos planned out.
While you have the difficult task of rounding up the family + furry friends and getting everyone in coordinating outfits, we wanted to help lighten your load for the holidays with a list of places around Madison that would make great holiday photo backdrops. From a classic city backdrop on John Nolen Drive to candid shots at the Olbrich gardens, there’s a holiday card photo op for every Madison family.
Note: Professional photographers may need a permit to shoot in some locations. Additional fees may apply.
Tenney Park
📍402 N. Thornton Ave.
Our favorite backdrops: The bridge, lagoon, open space, and views of Lake Mendota
Olbrich Gardens
📍3330 Atwood Ave.
Our favorite backdrops: Exotic plants, orchids, waterfall, Thai Pavilion, rose garden
https://www.instagram.com/tv/CVbpKJKgm_P/
Arboretum
📍1207 Seminole Hwy.
Our favorite backdrops: Open space, plants, flowers, prairies, savannas
Memorial Union
📍800 Langdon St.
Our favorite backdrops: Lake Mendota + the Wisconsin Union
Picnic Point
📍2000 University Bay Dr.
Our favorite backdrops: Marked trails, marshes, bays
Pro Tip: Check out Picnic Point’s Photography Guidelines
Wisconsin State Capitol
📍2 E. Main St.
Our favorite backdrops: Stairs to the Capitol, green lawn + seasonal shrubbery
Pheasant Branch Conservatory
📍4864 Pheasant Branch Rd.
Our favorite backdrops: wetland prairies, creeks, forests, greenery
Wisconsin Historical Society
📍816 State St.
Our favorite backdrops: Historic building, large pillars, old white marble
Garver Feed Mill
📍3241 Garver Green
Our favorite backdrops: Brick building, modern design
John Nolen Drive
📍John Nolen Dr.
Our favorite backdrops: Existing paths, open space, Madison skyline
Camp Randall Arch
📍1455 Monroe St.
Our favorite backdrops: Arch, paved paths, trees
Epic Campus
📍1979 Milky Way, Verona
Our favorite backdrops: Whimsical buildings, large green spaces
