Capitol Square: The Heartbeat of Madison

• HelloHowdy
  [haʊ-di]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [siː jə]
• YesYeah
  [jɛ]
• NoNah
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• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
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• Thank youThanks
  [θæŋks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon/My bad
  [ˈpɑːrdn / maɪ bæd]
• How are you?How's it going?
  [haʊz ɪt ˈɡoʊɪŋ]
• Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [ɡʊd juː]
• Do you speak English?You speak English?
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• I don't understandI'm lost
  [aɪm lɔst]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [kæn aɪ siː ðə ˈmɛnjuː]
• I don't eat meatI'm vegetarian
  [aɪm vɛdʒɪˈtɛriən]
• Cheers!Cheers!
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• I would like to pay, pleaseCan I pay now?
  [kæn aɪ peɪ naʊ]

• Help!Help!
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• Go away!Get lost!
  [ɡɛt lɔst]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
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• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
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• I'm lostI'm lost
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• I'm illI'm sick
  [aɪm sɪk]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
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• I'm just lookingI'm browsing
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• How much is it?How much?
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• That's too expensiveToo pricey
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• Can you lower the price?Can you do better?
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• What time is it?What's the time?
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• It's one o'clockIt's one
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• Half past (10)Half ten
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• MorningMornin'
  [ˈmɔrnɪn]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [ˌæftərˈnun]
• EveningEvenin'
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• YesterdayYest'day
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• TodayToday
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• TomorrowTomorra
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• 1One
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• 2Two
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• 6Six
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• 7Seven
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• 8Eight
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• 9Nine
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• 10Ten
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• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
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• What's the address?What's the addy?
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• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [kæn juː ʃoʊ miː]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [wɛnz ðə nɛkst]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [eɪ ˈtɪkət]

Capitol Square, the heart of Madison, was laid out in 1836 when the city was chosen to be the capital of Wisconsin. The square is designed in a grid pattern, with the State Capitol building at its center, symbolizing the political and civic importance of Madison. The area quickly became a hub for government activities and public gatherings.

The original State Capitol building, completed in 1857, was a striking example of Greek Revival architecture. However, it was replaced by the current Capitol, completed in 1917, which features a stunning dome and is the tallest building in Madison. The architectural styles around Capitol Square reflect the city’s growth and the evolution of its civic identity.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Capitol Square became a focal point for cultural events, festivals, and protests. The square has hosted significant civil rights demonstrations and political rallies, reflecting the evolving social landscape of Madison and the broader state. The annual Farmers' Market, which began in the 1970s, has also turned Capitol Square into a vibrant marketplace, celebrating local produce and community spirit.

In the early 21st century, Capitol Square gained national attention during the 2011 protests against Governor Scott Walker's proposed budget cuts and changes to collective bargaining rights for public employees. Thousands gathered at the Capitol, which underscored the area’s role as a site for civic engagement and political activism.

Today, Capitol Square continues to serve as a cultural and civic epicenter for Madison. The surrounding area boasts a mix of historic buildings, modern eateries, and art installations, fostering a sense of community. Events like the Wisconsin Film Festival and various art fairs further enhance its role as a vibrant neighborhood that honors its rich history while embracing contemporary culture.

Capitol Square is centrally located in Madison, making it easily accessible from other neighborhoods. If you're coming from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, you can take a short bus ride on routes 1, 2, or 80, which run frequently. From the East Side, bus routes 6 and 12 will take you directly to the square. For those driving, parking is available at various garages around the square, but be mindful of parking regulations. The nearest airport is Dane County Regional Airport, about 8 miles away, with taxi and rideshare services available for the trip to Capitol Square.

Capitol Square is pedestrian-friendly, and many attractions are within walking distance. Public buses operated by Metro Transit provide excellent service throughout Madison, and you can easily navigate using the Metro Transit app. Bicycles are a popular mode of transportation, with bike-sharing programs available. Capital City Trail runs nearby, offering a scenic route for cyclists and walkers. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also readily accessible in the area.

Capitol Square is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be observed. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas. While the downtown area is typically secure, certain neighborhoods on the outskirts, such as parts of the East Side and South Madison, have higher crime rates. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure to minimize the risk of theft.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital is UW Health University Hospital, located a few miles from Capitol Square. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health concerns, there are several pharmacies in the area for over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking; don't wear overly casual or beachwear when dining in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect the historical significance of places like the State Capitol; don't engage in loud conversations in such serene environments. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers; don’t talk loudly on your phone. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly 'hello'; don’t assume familiarity too quickly. Eating & Drinking: Do try local favorites like cheese curds; don’t bring outside food or drinks into restaurants.

To enjoy Capitol Square like a local, visit the Dane County Farmers' Market on Saturdays for fresh produce and artisan goods. Explore the nearby shops and cafes, and don’t miss the opportunity to try local craft beers at one of the nearby breweries. Engage with locals to learn about the history of the area, and if you're there during the summer, check out free concerts and events in the square, which are a great way to experience the community vibe.