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    • August 25, 2024
    • 12:00 PM
    • November 01, 2024
    • 1:00 PM
    • Madison

    Below are five guides to popular bicycling routes in Madison.   Each guide is broken up into distinct sections with maps providing detailed instructions.  These are not group rides but are to be taken whenever you want to go.

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    Bicycling Around Lake Monona

    The 12.5 mile route around Lake Monona is one of the most popular bicycle trips in Madison.  It goes through a mixture of bicycle paths and lightly traveled streets and takes about 75 minutes for the average cyclist.

    Click on A Guide to Bicycling Around Lake Monona

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    Bicycling the Cannonball Path/Arboretum Loop

    The route (8.2 miles) traverses a mixture of bicycle paths, city streets with bike lanes, and a quiet road through the U.W. Arboretum.  It takes about 50 minutes for the average cyclist.

    Click on A Guide to Bicycling the Cannonball Path/Arboretum Loop

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    Bicycling the Southwest Commuter Path/Capital City State Trail Loop

    The route (18.1 miles) is entirely on dedicated bicycle paths with the exception of a short 1/2 mile section on a quiet road.  It takes a little less than two hours for the average cyclist.

    Click on A Guide to Bicycling the Southwest Commuter Path/Capital City State Trail Loop

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    Bicycling the McFarland Loop

    The highlight of this route (18 miles) is a mile-long bridge spanning Lake Waubesa.  It is the longest inland boardwalk bridge constructed solely for non-motorized transportation in North America.  It takes a little less than two hours for the average cyclist.

    Click on A Guide to Bicycling the McFarland Loop

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    Bicycling the Blackhawk Path/Lake Mendota Drive/Lakeshore Nature Preserve Loop

    This 7.8 mile loop begins at Allen Centennial Garden and parallels University Avenue on bike paths before heading over to Lake Mendota Drive, a quiet, tree-lined residential neighborhood.   It then follows the Lakeshore Nature Preserve back to the starting point.   It takes less than one hour for the average cyclist.

    Click on A Guide to Bicycling the Blackhawk Path, Lake Mendota Drive, Lakeshore Nature Preserve Loop

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    BCycle Stations along the Route

    Madison BCycle has a number of stations along the routes where you can rent an electric bicycle.


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    Other Resources

    Dane County Bicycle Map

    Madison BCycle

    Madison Bikes Community (Facebook)

    Madison Bikes

    Bicycle Benefits

    Top 10 Trails to Try in Madison

    Biking in Fitchburg

    _______________________________________________________________________

    Compiled by Bob Shaw - robert.e.shaw@gmail.com

    August 2020;  Updated August 2024

    • October 13, 2024
    • Brookfield, WI
    • 5
    Registration is closed

    Header imageWorld Premiere

    Milwaukee Rep Presentation at the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Performing Arts' Harris Theater in Brookfield

    Sunday, October 13, 2024     2:30 pm Matinee

    Just one kiss can change everything

    This hit romantic comedy soars to new heights in a World Premiere musical that refreshes and elevates its fairy tale love story. When Peter and Rita are approached by a mysterious guest at their storybook wedding, the boundaries of true love are tested, taking them on a fantastic journey of self-discovery.  Adapted from the Tony-nominated play by Broadway great Craig Lucas (The Light in the PiazzaAmerican in Paris) that also inspired the 1992 hit film of the same name, and with a breathtaking score by Daniel Messé (Amélie) and Sean Hartley (Little Women the Musical), you’ll love this powerfully moving musical that gives the phrase “for better or worse” new meaning.

    Co-production with South Coast Repertory

    Approximate Running Time: 2 hours and 25 minutes with one intermission
    Recommended Age: 16 and up

    Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for The ArtsSharon Lynne Wilson Center for The Arts

    While Milwaukee Rep's Quadracci Powerhouse Theater is being remodeled, Prelude to a Kiss a Musical will be presented in the Harris Theater at the Sharon Lynne Wison Center for the Arts in Brookfield, WI.   The stage is large enough to support a full-sized professional symphony orchestra, yet intimate enough for chamber music or theater.”  Information and photos about this unique theater venue.

    Tickets:  Our group will be on the main floor Orchestra center section.

    Accessibility Policy:  On the bus, you must be able to climb steps to board and exit the bus.  If you need assistance, we require that you bring a friend to give you a hand.

    Pre-Show Discussion:  Optional, but free and highly recommended.  It starts at 1:45 PM, but you can enter at any time. 

    Free Time:  From 11:20 am until 1:20 pm there will be free time for lunch and/or shopping.  Our bus will drop-off and pick-up at the Corner of Brookfield for lunch/shopping alternatives. There are six unique restaurants - both eat in and carry-out, a bakery, a coffee shop and food market at the Corners.  We highly recommend that you make a dining reservation.  You can also bring your own lunch.   Please note that the cost of lunch is separate and as such is not included in your registration fee.

    Lunch is on your own, but we will arrange some Group Lunch Option for those who want to register, but may be hesitant... not knowing anyone and uncomfortable eating alone.  The Group Lunch Option addresses this concern and is a good way to make new theater trip friends.  We will make a couple large group reservations and will ask that you sign up for a restaurant prior to the trip date.  Just answer "Yes" to Group Lunch questions on the registration form and restaurant sign-up information will follow.

    Itinerary   

    Bear in mind that our boarding bus route is like Madison Metro or any other municipal bus service.  Please arrive early at your boarding stop so you don’t miss the bus.  When everyone is aboard and seated, we leave.   

    Don’t be late.  We can wait just 5 minutes at any one location.

    Accessibility Policy: On the Van Galder Bus, you must be able to climb steps to board and exit the bus.  If you need assistance, we require that you bring a friend to give you a hand.  Our bus has a restroom but does not tha WiFi.

    Leaving Madison

    9:15 AM   Westside: Bus arrives for boarding at Oakwood University Woods, 6205 Mineral Point Road


    9:30 AM   Westside: Bus departs from Oakwood University Woods

    9:50 AM   Central: Bus departs from Capitol Lakes, 333 W. Main St.

    10:20 AM   Eastside: Bus departs from Oakwood Prairie Ridge, 5565 Tancho Drive, Madison.  Leave for Brookfield (sooner if everyone is aboard).

    In Brookfield

    11:20 AM   Drop off at The Corners of Brookfield  for Lunch/Shopping 

    1:20 PM  Board bus at The Corners of Brookfield and drive to the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts for the Rep-in-Depth pre-show discussion.   

    1:45 PM   Rep-in-Depth optional pre-show discussion begins 

    2:30 PM   Prelude to a Kiss a Musical performance begins 

    4:55 PM   Prelude to a Kiss a Musical performance ends and bus boarding begins. (There will be adequate time for coat check retrieval and restroom use.)

    5:25 PM   Depart for Madison (sooner if everyone is aboard)

    Arrive Madison (Estimated)

    6:25 PM   Bus returns to Oakwood Prairie Ridge


    6:55PM  Bus returns to Capitol Lakes

    7:15 PM   Bus returns to Oakwood University Woods

    Non-Member Policy:   Members must register their guests.  Each PLATO member is entitled to bring one non-member guest per bus trip.  Members may bring more than one guest near the registration deadline date if seats are available.  Check with trip organizer.  Non-member guests pay an additional $10 registration fee.

    PLATO Membership:  PLATO membership is $60.00/year and all memberships renew on August 1.  

    Mail-In Registration Form:   Print, complete and mail in A Prelude to a Kiss Registration Form 

    For further information contact the Trip Organizers: 

    Sue Josheff  sooziej@sbcglobal.net or 608-770-3828

    Carla DiIorio  carlad@tds.net or 608-886-4556

    • December 04, 2024
    • 8:45 AM - 5:30 PM
    • Fireside Theater in Fort Atkinson
    • 10
    Register



    Fireside Theatre, Fort Atkinson

    Wednesday, December 4, 2024

    Registration deadline is November 11

    Based on the beloved Christmas movie, MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET is a big brassy Broadway musical with a heart. Funny, warm, tuneful, and inspirational, the show was written by Meredith Willson, creator of The Music Man musical. Kris Kringle—a jolly, kind man who claims that he is the real Santa Claus—has to prove his claim in court and teach his cynical neighbor and her daughter to believe in the goodness and love of Christmas. This is an unforgettable musical version of the classic Christmas tale.

    The meal includes butternut squash soup, freshly baked breads, choice of entree, Mississippi mud cake for dessert, and coffee/tea/milk. Entree choices include:

    • Chicken & Ribs:  Fall off the bone lean pork back ribs and buttermilk marinated southern fried baked chicken breast. Served with garlic whipped potatoes and Romanesco.
    • Steak Diane:  Medallions of roast beef tenderloin in the classic sauce. Served with garlic whipped potatoes and Romanesco.
    • Seared Duck Breast:  Tender duck breast with a reduction of port wine and tart red cherries.  Served with garlic whipped potatoes and Romanesco.
    • Global Vegetarian Medley:  Farm fresh vegetables, mushrooms, grains, and pasta.

    PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center  and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity.  Pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips.  You will be required to fill out the Verona Senior Center New Member Form (no charge) and Verona Senior Center Liability Agreement.  You can fill out these forms in advance or on the day of the trip.

    Schedule (Return times are approximate)

    8:45 a.m. - Depart Verona Senior Center, 108 Paoli Street, Verona

    9:30 a.m.  - Pick-up (East side) Dutch Mill Park and Ride (East Lot)

    10:30 a.m. - Arrive at Fireside Theatre

    11:15 a.m. - Dine

    1:30 p.m. - Showtime

    5:00 p.m. - Return Dutch Mill Park & Ride

    5:30 p.m. - Return Verona Senior Center

    Cost:  $135 per person and includes bus transportation, driver tip, admission fees, meal, taxes, and gratuities.

    Seating is limited, so register today!  Registrations must be received no later than noon on Monday, November 11, 2024.

    Mail-In Registration Form:   Print, Fill-in and Mail this Form  for those who wish to register off-line and by check.

    Refund Policy:  PLATO refunds an event fee if cancelled prior to the registration deadline.  Refunds after the registration deadline are only processed if a wait-listed registrant can attend.  Refunds made by check.

    PLATO Membership:  PLATO membership is $60.00/year and all memberships renew on July 1. 

    For further information, contact Miracle on 34th Street trip organizer, Sue Josheff,  sooziej@sbcglobal.net , 608-770-3828

    • December 09, 2024
    • 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
    • Milwaukee, WI
    • 7
    Register



    Milwaukee Holiday Tour

    Monday, December 9, 2024

    Registration deadline is November 15

    Join us and experience the magic of Milwaukee this holiday season with our Santa-approved tour, blending history, cherished Christmas traditions, delectable treats, and a sprinkle of festive cheer.

    Our journey starts with a visit to a cozy bakery for a morning treat and a steaming cup of coffee, perfect for warming up on a crisp winter morning.

    Then it's off to the Pabst Mansion, adorned in  all its Christmas splendor with its beautifully decorated rooms that evoke the spirit of the season.


    Lunch will be at Kegel's Inn indulging in seasonal flavors and hearty fare.   Lunch menu choices available soon.

    Throughout the day we will visit 4-6 enchanting ethnic bakeries and shops around Milwaukee, where you'll be treated to delightful samples, festive treats, and ample shopping time to find the perfect holiday gifts.


    We conclude our magical day at the Wauwatosa European Christmas Market, where the twinkling lights and festive atmosphere will fill you with holiday joy.

    This will be a fully narrated tour sharing the rich history of Christmas traditions from various cultural groups, including the Greek, Polish, German, Italian and Irish. Let the festive stories and cheerful sights make your holiday season unforgettable.

    PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center  and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity.  Pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips.  You will be required to fill out the Verona Senior Center New Member Form (no charge) and Verona Senior Center Liability Agreement.  You can fill out these forms in advance or on the day of the trip.

    Schedule  (Return times are approximate)

    8:00 a.m.  Depart Verona Senior Center, 108 Paoli Street, Verona

    8:30 a.m.   Pick-up (East Madison) Dutch Mill Park and Ride (East Lot)

    5:00 p.m.   Return Dutch Mill Park & Ride

    5:30 p.m.   Return Verona Senior Center

    Cost: $165 per person and includes bus transportation, driver tip, admission fees, meal, taxes, and gratuities.

    Seating is limited, so register today!  Registrations must be received no later than noon on Friday, November 15, 2024.

    Mail-In Registration Form:   Print, Fill-in, and Mail this Form  for those who wish to register off-line and by check.

    Refund Policy:  PLATO refunds an event fee if cancelled prior to the registration deadline.  Refunds after the registration deadline are only processed if a wait-listed registrant can attend.  Refunds made by check.

    PLATO Membership:  PLATO membership is $60.00/year and all memberships renew on July 1. 

    For further information, contact Milwaukee Holiday Tour trip organizer, Bob Shaw,  robert.e.shaw@gmail.com , 608-255-3486


PLATO is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization supported in part by:



info@platomadison.org

Facebook: @platomadison

608-572-6869

6209 Mineral Point Road #203
Madison, WI 53705








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