Bike to Riley Tavern 

Posted by Sarah E. Sterk

COVID restrictions have been a double-edged sword of sorts for our family. On one hand, many of the activities that we used to do are currently off-limits. On the other hand, we've found some new (or new-to-us) activities that we will likely continue to enjoy even after COVID restrictions are lifted. 

 

One of these fun activities that we've discovered is going to Riley Tavern, a restaurant and bar located west of Verona, Wisconsin. They have a large yard (now that it's cold, there's a tent too) with many picnic tables - perfect for outdoor dining as a couple or as a family!

The tavern is a short drive from Madison, but it is located just off of the Military Ridge State Trail. It's perfectly situated for combining a family bike ride with a family meal if you're up for a bike ride (about 7 miles one-way, or 35 minutes, from our home in Verona). I purchased my trail pass at Miller and Sons in Verona, but you can check the website below for more information about trail passes.

One Sunday morning (our church was still largely on a hiatus because of COVID) we got out the kids' bike trailer and got our bikes ready for a ride. We were able to make it to the tavern in time for their Sunday morning pancake breakfast, which runs from 9:00am-12:00pm.

My daughter must have already forgotten what it was like to dine somewhere other than our own house because she informed me that she really enjoyed her "fancy food"...aka pancakes and sausage served in a Styrofoam container!

Check the Riley Tavern's website for more information on their yard's open hours and meal specials - of course you can do take out (Pizza Tuesdays, anyone?) during any weather or season, but I'd recommend squeezing in an experience dining at the yard before winter arrives. 

Now that the weather is getting chillier, Riley Tavern has set up their "Yardtober Tent". There are still some tables outside of the tent, but the tent has heaters set up for cooler weather comfort. 

 

More information on the Military Ridge State Trail

More information on Riley Tavern