Three pounds of really good salt | $47.50+ | This one is sure to get some strange looks, but its silliness and sheer practicality might make it the most memorable gift at the party.
Olive oil mister | $9.99 | A handy gift they can use to turn oil into a fine mist or a steady drizzle.
Towel warmer | $150.99 | The only thing better than a warm shower is emerging from said shower with a fresh, hot towel.
Salt & Stone hand cream | $20 | Sometimes it’s simple things that make the best gifts. This top-rated hand cream is sure to impress.
Gifts for book lovers
Literary quote clock | $209 | Why tell time the normal way when you could use 13,000 curated literary quotes?
“To be read” storage basket | $16.99 | Perfect for that friend with an amazing aesthetic bookcase, this TBR book storage basket is both functional and adorable.
Kindle Unlimited membership | $65.95+ | The best thing you can gift a bibliophile? Over four million titles of free books.
2012. That’s when the City of Madison’s most recent comprehensive plan was completed. Now, Envision Downtown Madison is seeking community input for a new downtown growth and development strategy. Stay tuned for future community feedback opportunities throughout the year. (WMTV)
Biz
Forbes 30 Under 30 is out, and two people with ties to Madison made the list. UW-Madison graduates Sydney Thomas (BÉIS executive) + Christy Lee (Seventh House Marketing founder) showed Forbes what Madison is made of.
Development
The Madison Plan Commission approved plans for a 16-story apartment building on Wilson Street. The building is slated to feature 320 “micro” units and no parking structure, which will allow for rents ~30% lower than comparable downtown housing, according to the developer. (Wisconsin State Journal)
Drink
Next year, you’ll be able to buy a Yuengling in Madison. America’s oldest brewery recently announced plans to expand into Wisconsin in early 2026 — expect to see the beer show up in bars and restaurants near the end of January + in retailers around early March. (Wisconsin State Journal)
Open
A new Colectivo cafe is now open on Williamson Street. This marks Colectivo’s fourth Madison location. Bonus: Peppermint fluff is back on the menu.(Fox 47)
Seasonal
Shop for winter gear this Saturday, Dec. 6 and Sunday, Dec. 7 at Hoofer Ski and Snowboard Club’s annual ski swap. Find new and gently-used skis, snowboards, boots, and more at Union South during the event.
Closed
The Merrimac ferry, aka Colsac III, has closed for the season. The free ferry generally reopens in April, though exact opening dates will vary. (WMTV)
Shop
If you’re a Costco shopper, you know about the $1.50 hot dog. But are you in on these other 10 lesser-known hacks all Costco shoppers should know about? Wait until you see number six.*
Health
This FDA-registered vibrator is recommended by doctors because it boosts arousal and supports natural lubrication, thanks to its bendable shape designed to stimulate all the right spots. Even better? Save 35% + an extra 15% with code H4PPY15.*
Finance
This just in: 6% is the new 2%. This card is every reward-seeker’s dream, offering up to 6% cash back in categories you’ll actually use. Bonus: You can get 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers into 2027. Learn more and apply.*
Health
Meet Horizon IX, an innovative hearing aid that a leading audiologist calls “nothing short of a miracle.” With dual processors for sharper speech and less noise, it offers a nearly invisible design for all-day comfort. Try it at no risk for 45 days and experience effortless hearing for the holidays.*
Category
Travel and Outdoors
🚉 All aboard
Another option? The Lake Shore Limited, pictured here, which runs from Chicago to NYC + Boston. | Photo by Marc Glucksman via Amtrak
Train travel is on the rise. Amtrak carried 32.8 million riders in fiscal year 2024 — a 15% jump from 2023 and its highest ridership ever.
The more sustainable, often scenic, and middle seat-less cousin to flying, train travel could play a part in your next vacation. Here’s how.
Stations near us
While Madison doesn’t have an Amtrak station of its own (yet), there are a few within a short drive:
If you’re headed West or towards Chicago from any of these stations, you’ll probably be aboard the Empire Builder.
WiFi | Though the Empire Builder doesn’t have free WiFi, you are allowed to use your phone the entire ride. Pro tip: Outlets are more accessible in first or business class + sleeper cars.
Food + Drink | Cafe service (snacks and drinks for purchase) and traditional dining (chef-prepared meals for first class travelers)
Accommodations | Upper and lower level coach seats + various private roomettes and bedrooms
Discover clever, useful tech that solves everyday problems in this guide to 2025’s coolest gadgets. We’re talking a small but mighty home security upgrade, a power bank the size of a credit card, and more.
I hope you’re all staying safe in this cold, Madison. Don’t forget to make sure all of your windows are sealed, read up on pipe safety, and dress in layers if you must venture outdoors. View more cold weather tips from the city.
