If you’re looking for things to do in Madison, Wisconsin, you’ve come to the right place! This Midwestern city is full of outdoor activities, interesting history, and world-class museums. In this guide, we’ll give you an overview of some of Madison’s top attractions. And trust us, there’s something for everyone.
Are You Looking for Indoor Things to Do in Madison, WI?
If you’re looking for things to do indoors, you’ll have plenty of options in Madison. The city has a large number of museums, art galleries, and other cultural attractions. You can also find plenty of shopping and dining options.
University of Wisconsin
If you are looking for things to do in Madison, WI, the University of Wisconsin is a great place to start. Here are just a few of the things you can do on campus:
- Visit the art museum. The Chazen Museum of Art is full of intriguing exhibits from around the world.
- Take a walk through the arboretum. The UW Arboretum is a beautiful spot to take a stroll, and you might even see some wildlife along the way.
- Explore the campus. There is so much to see on the UW campus, including historic buildings, sculptures, and more.
- The pavilion at the University of Wisconsin-Madison is a great spot for a picnic or a game of Frisbee, and it’s also home to the Wisconsin Union Theater, which hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.
Madison Museum of Contemporary Art
The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art is a great place to visit if you’re looking for something cultural to do in Madison. The museum has a variety of exhibitions and programs that are sure to interest visitors of all ages. MMoCA is also home to a café and a shop, so you can make a day of it if you’d like.
If you’re a fan of the arts or just looking for something to do, you can visit the Overture Center for the Arts. The center features a wide variety of performances and events, including theater, music, and dance productions. It’s also home to the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra and the Madison Ballet.
Wisconsin Veterans Museum
If you’re looking for things to do in Madison, WI, be sure to check out the Wisconsin Veterans Museum. This museum is dedicated to preserving the stories and experiences of Wisconsin veterans from all wars and conflicts. Visitors can explore exhibits on the history of the state’s military units, view artifacts and photos, and listen to first-hand accounts from veterans. The museum also offers educational programs for school groups and is open to the public 7 days a week.
State Capitol
The State Capitol is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Madison. It’s a beautiful building with stunning architecture and a rich history. There are lots of things to see and do at the Capitol, including exhibits, tours, and special events. If you’re interested in politics or history, the Capitol is definitely worth a visit.
Be sure to check out the Capitol Square. This historic square is full of restaurants and bars in the area, making it the perfect spot to spend an afternoon or evening.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Architecture
Frank Lloyd Wright is one of the most famous architects in history, and many of his works are located in Madison. Some of the most popular destinations in the city for architecture fans include the Wright-designed Monona Terrace Convention Center and the First Unitarian Society Meeting House. If you’re interested in learning more about Wright’s work, the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation offers tours of Taliesin, his home and studio in Spring Green.
Dane County Farmers’ Market
If you’re looking for something fun and active, check out the Dane County Farmers’ Market, which takes place every Saturday morning from April through November. The market features local produce, meats, cheeses, eggs, flowers, and more. Plus, there’s always a great atmosphere at the market, and you can enjoy live music while you shop.
Outdoor Activities and Things to Do in Madison, WI
Madison, Wisconsin is a great city for outdoor activities. With its many parks and lakes, there are plenty of things to do in the great outdoors. Here are some of the best outdoor activities in Madison.
Downtown Madison
If you’re looking for things to do in Madison, WI, downtown Madison is the place to be. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and activities to keep you busy. Here are just a few of the many things to do in downtown Madison:
- Take a walk or bike ride on the Capital City Trail: The Capital City Trail is a paved trail that runs through downtown Madison. It’s perfect for a walk, run, or bike ride, and it offers a great view of the city.
- Have a drink or eat at one of Madison’s many bars and restaurants: Madison is home to some great bars and restaurants, so be sure to check out a few of them while you’re in town. You won’t be disappointed!
- If you find yourself in Madison, you’ll definitely want to check out State Street. This vibrant street is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
If you’re looking for a beautiful and serene spot to spend an afternoon, Olbrich Botanical Gardens is the place for you. With 16 acres of gardens, including Thai and Japanese gardens, it’s no wonder this attraction is one of Madison’s most popular. Olbrich also features a Bolz Conservatory filled with exotic plants and flowers, and an outdoor terrace with stunning views of the city. Admission is free for kids 12 and under, making it a great option for a family day out.
Lake Monona and Lake Mendota
There are plenty of things to do in Madison, WI, especially if you love the outdoors. Lake Monona and Lake Mendota are two of the most popular spots for swimming, fishing, and boating. If you’re more into hiking and biking, there are plenty of trails to explore as well.
Henry Vilas Zoo
Henry Vilas Zoo is a great place to spend a day with the family. There are plenty of things to do, including the Regent Street Gardens, the Conservation Carousel, and the Children’s Zoo. You can also see animals from all over the world, including lions, tigers, and bears. Admission is affordable, and there are plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained. If you’re looking for a fun-filled day, Henry Vilas Zoo is the place to be!
Rooftop Bars
There are plenty of reasons to visit Madison, but one of the best things is checking out the rooftop bars. The view from up high is absolutely stunning, and it’s a great way to experience everything that this vibrant city has to offer. Some of the best bars in Madison include Cardinal Bar and The Atrium.
As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in Madison, WI. And don’t forget about the famous Wisconsin Badgers sports teams! Whether you’re a fan or not, a game at Camp Randall Stadium is an experience you won’t forget.
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