Things to Do - Madison Area
Madison, Wisconsin, offers a wide variety of activities for visitors and locals alike, from outdoor adventures and family-friendly destinations to cultural attractions and lively sports events. Here’s a guide to some of the best things to do in the Greater Madison Area, with a special focus on my personal favorites and the many free activities you can enjoy in this vibrant city.
Must-See and Do
Rated from most loved:
Dane County Farmers Market - On Saturday mornings, don’t miss the Dane County Farmers Market – the largest producer-only market in the United States. You’ll find a fantastic selection of local produce, fresh cheese curds, and delicious warm cheesy bread. It’s a Madison tradition, and a perfect spot to experience the local flavor!
Badger Athletics - Whether you’re a sports fan or not, attending a Badger game at Camp Randall or the Kohl Center is an unforgettable Madison experience. Cheer on Bucky Badger and soak in the excitement of game day, with football, basketball, and hockey games throughout the year.
Mickies Dairy Bar - For breakfast before the game, head to Mickie’s Dairy Bar. This old-school diner serves up hearty meals, including their famous Griddle Cakes (whole grain batter with apples, cinnamon, raisins, and oatmeal) and the Reuben Omelet (corned beef, “Swiss, thousand island, and sauerkraut). Be prepared for a wait, especially on game days, but the large portions and great service make it worth it. Mickie’s is cash only-there is an ATM nearby.
Olbrich Park Boat Rentals - In the summer, Rutabaga offers boat rentals for canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards at Olbrich Park. Afterward, head over to the Olbrich Biergarten for a refreshing beer, or explore the Olbrich Botanical Gardens , which hosts various events and features 16 acres of outdoor gardens and an indoor conservatory. The gardens are free to visit on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10 AM to noon!
Machinery Row Bicycles - Rent a bike from Machinery Row and explore Madison’s scenic bike trails. For the adventurous, try the Lake Monona loop, which offers a challenging ride with plenty of hills.
Henry Vilas Zoo - A family favorite, Henry Vilas Zoo is free to visit and offers a great day out whether you have kids or not. Located near Lake Wingra, it’s an ideal spot for animal lovers. Open all year and decks the zoo out with lights at Christmas (fee).
Lake Wingra Boats - With multiple locations on three lakes, Lake Wingra Boats offers over 400 boats to rent, including fishing boats, pontoon boats, canoes, and paddleboards. It’s a great way to spend a day on the water.
Vilas Park - In the winter months, try ice skating at Vilas Park, a peaceful and picturesque spot for outdoor skating.
New Glarus Brewing - For craft beer lovers, New Glarus Brewing offers free self-guided tours Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM. If you want a more in-depth experience, the hard hat tours (reservation only) provide a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process. The hard hat tours are reservation-only and last for 3 hours. They are offered on Fridays at 1:00 PM.
Madison Children's Museum - This interactive museum offers year-round fun for families, with sections like Possible-opolis (for ages 6+), Rooftop Ramble (featuring gardens and animals), and Wildernest (a natural play space for children under 5). It's a great place for kids to learn and play.
Wisconsin Veterans Museum - A fascinating museum with free tours that explore Wisconsin’s military history. Be sure to reserve your spot in advance, as tours are scheduled two weeks ahead of time.
Madison Museum of Contemporary Art - Art lovers will appreciate the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, which offers free admission and features rotating exhibits from both established and emerging artists.
Madison Capitol Tours - Take a free guided tour of the Wisconsin State Capitol, where you can learn about the history and architecture of this stunning building.
UW-Madison Arboretum - Explore 1,200 acres of diverse ecosystems, including woodlands, savannas, prairies, and wetlands. The UW-Madison Arboretum offers 20 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and even skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. Private tours are also available.
Free Things to Do in Madison
Madison is packed with free activities that let you experience the city’s culture, nature, and history without breaking the bank:
Olbrich Botanical Gardens: Free admission on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10 AM to noon.
Henry Vilas Zoo: Always free to enter and explore.
Wisconsin State Capitol: Free guided tours every day.
UW-Madison Arboretum: Free access to the trails and nature areas.
Madison Museum of Contemporary Art: Free entry to see the latest exhibitions.
Final Thoughts
Madison offers a wide range of experiences, whether you're enjoying the outdoors, soaking in the local culture, or exploring the city’s sports scene. From visiting the Dane County Farmers Market to paddling on Lake Wingra or taking a walk through the Arboretum, there’s always something to do. And the best part? Many of these activities are free, so you can enjoy the best of Madison without spending a dime!
