Middleton is Clean, Green and Serene
Middleton embraces green travel practices and environmental sustainability.
From lush outdoor green spaces to passionate local producers and community members, we are so fortunate to be a city that values being green.
Each year, Earth Day reminds us all of the important role we play in protecting, shaping and preserving our planet. In Middleton, we value creating an environment where travelers are welcomed by serene outdoor spaces that are guarded by green and clean sustainability practices.
Here are four reasons why we’re greener:
Respect for the Outdoors
From well-maintained trails to preserved prairie land, Middleton makes it easy to want to be outdoors. In fact, more than 25 percent of the City of Middleton’s land is dedicated to open spaces. Middleton is a place where bikers can spend the day, adventure seekers can traverse through 549 acres of protected conservancy land, water lovers can easily jump into Lake Mendota, golfers can play on an award-winning course with breathtaking views, and so much more.
Breathe in the fresh air while visiting Greenway Station — a 46-acre open air shopping center, and spend some time in the completely walkable downtown shopping district. There is also a self-guided Middleton Outdoor Art Trail or take a trip back in time to experience Middleton’s past with one of the Middleton Area Historical Society‘s walking or landmark tours. Also, the Rowley House Museum just began offering free, guided history walks through downtown during pre-scheduled dates. Here are a few listed so far.
And lastly, after an amazing day exploring, head to one of our 80 restaurants or cafes, maybe grab a drink on a patio, or listen to some music outside at Capital Brewery & Bier Garten or Hidden Cave Cidery, or enjoy events and music at Stone Horse Green.
Walkable, Bikable and e-Chargeable
Middleton is also well connected via trail. With more than 27 miles of trails, it’s easy to take it all in without having to use a vehicle. Middleton’s community trails lead to playgrounds, recreation areas and pavilions, as well as nearby places to eat and shop. Explore an updated map of Middleton’s trails here.
If you do travel to Middleton with a vehicle, there are several electric vehicle public charging stations. Find a charging station that works for you:
- Downtown: 7428 Terrace Avenue and 7428 Terrace Avenue: both LEVEL 2
- Greenway Station: 1611 Aspen Commons: LEVEL 2
- East Middleton: 6825 University Avenue: LEVEL 2
- Lexus Madison: 8000 Airport Road, 7185 High Road: LEVEL 2
- Middleton Ridge: 6829 County Road K: LEVEL 2
Locally Produced
On top of our extensive food scene of more than 80 restaurants, we love eating food that is sourced locally. Whether that be by picking up produce at the Greenway Station Farmers Market for a homemade meal, or stopping at a local restaurant that features menu items made with locally-sourced ingredients, Middleton offers farm-fresh goodness.
A Committed Community
The City of Middleton is committed to sustainability and green efforts. On Oct. 6, 2023, Middleton became the very first city in Wisconsin to receive the LEED Gold certification.
Much of Middleton’s ability to be a green city is contributed to our community members strong dedication and desire to preserve and protect the environment and the city’s natural beauty. The City of Middleton has pledged to establish goals to meet 100 percent of its energy needs with renewable energy by 2040 and 100 percent of community-wide energy needs with renewable energy by 2050. From the leadership of the City of Middleton’s Sustainability Committee, to the Morey Field five-megawatt solar project that hosts 1.5 megawatts of solar power for the City of Middleton and the Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District, to Middleton’s Municipal Airport, Morey Field, offering a fully unleaded aviation fuel option, all the way to local businesses and individual community members who are passionate about supporting climate change, Middleton is leading the way on becoming a greener city.
Modified April 16, 2024