Things to do & places to visit in Madison, Wisconsin, United States

The sprawling University of Wisconsin sets the tone for this college town of cafes, bookstores, brewpubs, numerous restaurants (more per capita than anywhere else in the U.S.) and a good share of cultural and historical attractions. Stunning glacial waterways make the City of Lakes one of the more picturesque state capitals in the country. More than 250 parks offer residents and tourists plenty of recreational areas to choose from. If you visit the campus, be sure to try the famous Babcock Ice Cream at Memorial Union or Babcock Hall, before or after a visit to the Elvehjem Museum of Art's collection of Greek, Roman and Egyptian antiquities. And to really get into the college spirit, head over to State Street's eclectic range of ethnic restaurants. Be sure to try the mouth-watering bratwurst sandwich on a homemade bun at State Street Brats, a student favorite. At the end of State Street, the white granite, Roman Renaissance-style Capitol dominates the skyline and offers an observation platform for views of the city and lakes.

Madison municipality in Wisconsin, United States. Timezone: America/Chicago, current date and time: Wednesday, May 08, 2024, 16:07.

Top things to do (26)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Olbrich Botanical Gardens (1.686 reviews)
- October Visits
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Gardens

One of Madison's most popular attractions, this oasis of green includes a sunken garden, perennial garden, tower garden, rock garden, herb garden, wildflower garden and an indoor, tropical conservatory. See more..
5.0 Memorial Union Terrace (711 reviews)
- Gorgeous!
Points of Interest & Landmarks

The Memorial Union Terrace is one of the most unique things that sets the UW-Madison campus apart! The location and view right on Lake Mendota are unbeatable, you won't find anything just like it at any other campus. Even during the summer when most students are gone, there are a decent amount of the stations inside the union open (ice cream, brats, pub food, bars, + more). We sat on the terrace on a few occasions. During morning/breakfast hours it is peaceful and serene, and at night it is a fun atmosphere to hang with family + friends. Love how there are water activities available right next door. Highly recommend! See more..
5.0 Allen Centennial Gardens (105 reviews)
- Great hidden gem on campus!
Gardens

Located on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, these public gardens serve as outdoor classrooms in the study and research of plant identification, ecology and site management techniques in horticulture. See more..
5.0 Lakeshore Nature Preserve at University of Wisconsin (24 reviews)
- One of Madison's Best parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas

Lakehsore Preserve consists of several parcels, strung along the lake Mendota beginning downtown Madison and going just past Eagle Heights housing. Parcels include famous Picnic Point, and also Raymer's Cove, Eagle Heights Woods, Howard Temin Lakeshore Path and others. It has numerous Native American Mounds on its lands, abundant waterfowl sheltering in its bays, and other wildlife. Parking used to be free, but unfortunately they managed to install parking meters in the formerly rustic parking lot, but that's the sole downside (only for some folks). See more..
4.5 Wisconsin State Capitol (2.054 reviews)
- Must See in Madison
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Government Buildings

The majestic Roman Renaissance-style State Capitol has the only granite dome in the U.S. and inside has over 40 different types of stone from around the world as well as murals and handmade furniture. The observation deck, open in the summer, offers views of the city and surrounding lakes. Capitol Square plays host to state events throughout the year including Farmers Markets and Folk Festivals. See more..
4.5 Henry Vilas Zoo (1.686 reviews)
- Family zoo time
Wednesday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Zoos

Truly a wild place to hang out! We are an admission-free, AZA-accredited zoo located next to Vilas Park in downtown Madison with a mission to conserve and protect the wonders of the natural world. Sign up for a Behind the Scenes tour, let us host your next birthday party, or just come by and learn more about our animals. With over 100 species, including polar bears, Aldabra tortoises, and African lions, there are plenty of opportunities to learn more about your favorite animals! See more..
4.5 State Street & Downtown Madison (884 reviews)
- Great place to take in some local culture
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Shopping Malls

This seven-block bustling thoroughfare, which runs between Capitol Square and the University of Wisconsin, buzzes with activity day and night. Offering lake access, amazing views, several museums and theaters, more than 140 restaurants including a diverse array of coffeehouses, ethnic restaurants, and award winning chefs, as well as more than 80 unique shops including bookstores, art galleries and specialty shops. See more..
4.5 Capitol Square (655 reviews)
- Beautiful Capitol Square!
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks

It is always exciting to tour the Capitol Square and surrounding shops, particularly durring Farmers Market season. There are thousands of great things to explore and learn. Fun food samples at the Farmer's Market. There are even posters at the Market and one can get acquainted with the cows and goats supplying milks made into the Artisanal cheeses at the market. Exciting bookshops near the Capitol too. See more..
4.5 Dane County Farmers' Market (465 reviews)
- Fun activity to do with friends
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 1:45 PM Spent 2-3 hours Farmers Markets

The Dane County Farmers’ Market on the Square is a Saturday and Wednesday tradition in Madison, Wisconsin. You’ll find the season’s best bounty of vegetables, flowers, meats, cheeses, and specialty products from approximately 275 vendors throughout the year. Over 150 members attend every Saturday. All of the items for sale are grown, raised, and produced in Wisconsin by the person behind the stand. See more..
4.5 Camp Randall Stadium University of Wisconsin (429 reviews)
- Great Game Day Experience
Wednesday: 7:45 AM - 4:15 PM Arenas & Stadiums

Really enjoyed visiting the University of Wisconsin and watching a football game at Camp Randall Stadium. If it is your first time going would recommend breakfast at Mickie’s Dairy Bar right next to campus. Get there early right when it opens. Can then go tailgate or watch the band before the game. Good atmosphere, great game day experience. See more..
4.5 Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center (409 reviews)
- Great experience on guided tour
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM Architectural Buildings • Convention Centers

Guided tours of the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building feature the history of the most controversial design of one of the world's greatest architects. Tour highlights include dramatic open spaces, curvilinear forms, breathtaking views, and a picture exhibit of noted photographer Pedro Guerrero. Weather permitting, guests can also visit the rooftop. Tours run Thursday - Saturday at 1pm and cost $5 for adults and $3 for students. Free events during the spring and summer months include Concerts on the Rooftop, Dane Dances, , Lakeside Kids children's program, architectural Wright Lecture series, as well as numerous other programs for all ages. We also offer outreach programs for students. The Gift Shop, (open Tuesday-Saturday 11am-3pm) located on level 4 inside Monona Terrace, has a unique selection of Wright-inspired gifts, Wisconsin souvenirs, and specialty Items. See more..
4.5 University of Wisconsin - Madison (326 reviews)
- A Great Place for Volleyball
Educational sites

Attended NCAA Volleyball Championships round 1 at the historic Fieldhouse. Sight lines were good. Crowd was lively. Fieldhouse is a cashless venue -credit or debit cards only. Concessions are pricey but there is good variety including pizza, Mac n cheese, UW ice cream(super premium), etc. Great venue for the home team. UW Band adds greatly to the atmosphere. See more..
4.5 Chazen Museum of Art (321 reviews)
- A great suprise in Madison!
Wednesday: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM Art Museums

This art museum's impressive collection includes prints, photographs, paintings and sculptures from prehistoric times to modern day. Special exhibitions showcasing local artists take place throughout the year. The Chazen remains free, but you must book an appointment in advance to visit during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic: See more..
4.5 Madison Children's Museum (311 reviews)
- Diverting for kids AND adults
Wednesday: Spent 2-3 hours Children's Museums

Madison Children's Museum reopened, reuniting children with Seymore, the giant bluegill; the Wildernest bone bridge, rooftop chickens; and each other--in open-ended, creative play. The museum opens exclusively to its members during the soft opening, from June 3 until the public opening on June 24. To help limit capacity and allow for safe interactions, all visitors must make an online reservation in advance for a specific time. The Madison Children's Museum is an award-winning destination for fun family activities and hands-on learning! Visit our inventive city of Possible-opolis for ages 6 and up, and our four-season Rooftop Ramble, with animals and gardens. Kids under 5 have a place of their own in the Wildernest, a global village made with natural, local materials. There's always something new to do at Madison Children's Museum, where our mission is to connect children with their family, their community, and the world beyond through discovery learning and creative play. See more..
4.5 Wisconsin Veterans Museum (244 reviews)
- One of the main attractions in Madison
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Military Museums • Speciality Museums • History Museums

See, hear, and honor the stories of Wisconsin veterans from the Civil War era to present day. Learn where Wisconsinites served and why their sacrifice still matters today. See more..
4.5 University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum (240 reviews)
- Massive place!
Nature & Wildlife Areas • Jogging Paths & Tracks

Considered the birthplace of ecological restoration, the UW–Madison Arboretum is a teaching and research facility that conserves and restores land, advances science, offers public outreach, and benefits from community involvement. The 1,200-acre grounds are home to protected prairies, woodlands, wetlands, savannas, springs, shoreline, a notable horticultural collection, and Wisconsin native plant gardens. It also offers 20 miles of walking trails and 4 miles of biking road as well as hundreds of learning and volunteer opportunities. The Arboretum is located between Lake Wingra and the West Beltline Highway. The main entrance is at 1207 Seminole Highway. The Visitor Center is open weekdays from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., weekends from 12:30 to 4 p.m. Arboretum admission is free. See more..
4.5 Lake Mendota (165 reviews)
- Lake Mendota in Madison, WI
Bodies of Water

Ideal for boating in the summer, and ice skating or ice fishing in winter. See more..
4.5 Kohl Center (151 reviews)
- Badger Hockey....fun to watch
Wednesday: 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM Arenas & Stadiums

Home for the University of Wisconsin Basketball and Hockey teams seats 17,142 for basketball games and between 15,000 and 17,000 for live concerts. See more..
4.5 Madison Mallards (141 reviews)
- Great Experience for the time spent there
Sports Complexes

The Madison Mallards are a summer collegiate baseball team that plays in the Northwoods League. They are dedicated to providing the ultimate fan experience. Madison Mallards, "Baseball Like It Outgha Be!" See more..
4.5 University of Wisconsin Geology Museum (116 reviews)
- Great museum
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Science Museums

Explore the Geology Museum and take a peek into Wisconsin's deep history!On your visit you can touch rocks from a time when there were volcanoesin Wisconsin; see corals, jellyfish and other sea creatures that used tolive and swim where we now walk; and stand under the tusks of a mastodonwhile imagining yourself in the Ice Age. Also on display at the GeologyMuseum are rocks and minerals that glow, a model of a Wisconsin cave,dinosaurs and meteorites.Our mineral, rock and fossil collections have the power to educate andinspire visitors of all ages. Come see for yourself! See more..
4.5 Wisconsin Historical Museum (105 reviews)
- Great historical museum, right in the middle of things
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM History Museums

Bringing Wisconsin's history to life through exhibits on the material culture of the state and the Upper Midwest, from prehistoric times to present day. See more..
4.5 First Unitarian Meeting House of Madison (95 reviews)
- a stunning building with stunningly kind people.
Architectural Buildings • Religious Sites

this place is one of the most beautiful churches I have been to. the architecture is amazing and is made of smooth granite, giving it a very royal and gorgeous look. the people their are stunningly kind, compassionate generous, including the staff and volunteers that work there. I recommend going to FUS if you need to connect with an amazing community or just want to take in the amazing talent of frank Lloyd wright. See more..
4.5 Lake Monona Shoreline Run (61 reviews)
- Fun biking trail
Biking Trails

A 3-mile bike path along Lake Monona. See more..
4.5 Tenney Park (54 reviews)
- Hidden gem of a beach!
Parks

What's better then a free beach on a sunny day. Nice beach house with showers, beach area has nice sandy play area, swimming area is also nice and sandy. Lifeguards on duty keeping everyone safe. Bike path runs along beach area, sand volleyball, playground, shade areas to get a break from the sun, and boats can anchor outside swimming area. This is a must stop for any beach goer in the Madison area. See more..
4.5 Madison Public Library (45 reviews)
- Needed a book for school
Spent < 1 hour Libraries

This is a wonderful library. Everyone is so helpful. There is a great selection of books and if they don't have it they will help you find it. See more..
4.5 Vilas Park (45 reviews)
- Great park with something for everyone
Zoos • Parks • Playgrounds

Located on the shores of Lake Wingra, this park includes the Henry Vilas Zoo, an arboretum and a popular scenic beach. See more..
4.5 Aldo Leopold Nature Center (43 reviews)
- Inspirational
Nature & Wildlife Areas

The Aldo Leopold Center is relaxing, enchanting, and inspiring. Although the main building was closed due to Covid the grounds are open and amazing. So many different ecosystems in a small area that’s easy to navigate, well maintained, and accessible. This is a great place for kids to explore and everyone to learn and appreciate nature. A class of youngsters arrived as we were leaving, and the joy and exuberance they showed really warmed my heart. Kudos to the staff for making this place so educational and fun! See more..
4.5 Ice Age National Scenic Trail (35 reviews)
- Check it out -- You will be impressed
Hiking Trails

This hiking trail passes some fascinating geological formations formed by the recession of giant glaciers during the Ice Age, between 70,000 to 10,000 years ago. See more..
4.0 Madison Museum of Contemporary Art (101 reviews)
- Small and easy to navigate, free, and with fabulous, well-displayed art
Wednesday: Art Museums

This free museum offers exciting exhibits from emerging artists as well as influential works from those widely known. There's something for everyone to love with areas dedicated to children's connection to the art. On top of it all, MMoCA features a great view of State Street among the rooftop sculpture garden. See more..
4.0 Alliant Energy Center (94 reviews)
- Garden & Landscape Expo February 2020
Arenas & Stadiums • Convention Centers

Our premier downtown multi-venue complex features four unique and versatile venues: Veterans Memorial Coliseum, Exhibition Hall, the New Holland Pavilions, and Willow Island. A top choice for expositions, conventions, meetings, concerts, sporting events, ag events, and much more, the Alliant Energy Center complex is a one-stop-shop for all your events. Ample parking, mouthwatering catering, dedicated staff, and a full range of rental equipment & high speed internet make AEC an event planners delight! See more..