Things to do in Madison
Allen Centennial Gardens
The highly visible site of the Gardens reveals facets of an ever-changing panorama of beauty to the thousands of people who pass by daily. The Gardens serve as an outdoor classroom, offering research and training opportunities in plant identification and nomenclature as well as ecological and site management techniques for one of the few horticultural departments in Wisconsin's higher education system. Open from dawn to dusk. Call 608-262-8406 for more information.
620 Babcock Drive, Madison, WI
Alliant Energy Center
The Center is open year round. Call 608-267-3976 for more information.
1919 Alliant Energy Center Way, Madison, WI
Angelic Brewing Company
This is a Microbrewery and restaurant, open year round. Call 608-257-2707 for more information.
322 W Johnson Street, Madison, WI
Antique Gallery
The Gallery offers a very large selection of original antique maps and prints from 17th to 19th century, and paintings. Open Monday - Saturday noon - 5pm. Call 608-833-4321 for more information.
6608 Mineral Point Road, Madison, WI
Antiques Mall of Madison
Explore through 18,000 sq ft of display space with more than 100 dealers. Open daily Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, & Friday 10am - 6pm; Thursday 10am - 8pm; Saturday 10am - 5pm; Sunday 11am - 5pm. Call 608-222-2049 for more information.
4748 Cottage Grove Road, Madison, WI
Berkley Park
This is a 3.3-acre city park that is open year round. Call 608-266-4711 for more information.
1730 Browning Road, Madison, WI
Betty Lou Cruises
Cruise the waters of Madison's Lake Mendota or Lake Monona aboard our enclosed motor yachts. We offer brunch, lunch, dinner, appetizer, and dessert cruises. Reservations are required. Operating March 15 – October 26. Call 608-246-3136 for more information.
5339 Lighthouse Bay Drive, Madison, WI
Boulders Climbing Gym
8000 square feet of sculpture climbing walls with some of the most varied and creative angles. Beginners to seasoned climbers find many fun and challenging routes and problems. We offer everything from birthday parties, adult & children's camps. Open year round Monday - Friday 4 - 10pm; Saturday 10am - 8pm; Sunday noon - 6pm. Call 608-244-8100 for more information.
3964 Commercial Avenue, Madison, WI
Broadway Antiques Mall
Explore the 16,500 sq ft of antiques that include furniture, accessories, and collectible items. Open year round daily 10am -5pm; Thursday 10am - 9pm; Sunday 11am - 5pm. Call 608-222-2241 for more information.
115 E Broadway, Madison, WI
Burnie's Rock Shop, Inc.
Featuring 14kt & Sterling Silver custom jewelry & repair, unique gems, rough rock & slabs, fine mineral specimens, fossils, tools & supplies, stone & pearl beads. Open year round Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday 10am - 6pm; Thursday 10am - 8pm; Sunday noon - 4pm. Call 608-251-2601 for more information.
901 E Johnson Street, Madison, WI
Cameo Day Spa Salon
At the Cameo Spa Salon our mission is to provide you, the guest with five star customer services in a holistic and relaxing atmosphere. Open year round Monday - Thursday 8am - 9pm; Friday 8am -6pm; Saturday 8am - 5pm. Holiday hours may vary. Call 608-284-1956 for more information.
23 N Pinckney Street, Madison, WI
Capitol Snowmobile Tour
A dozen charming small towns and crossroads villages are linked in this circular tour around Wisconsin's capitol city - Madison. It's easy cruising with never more than fourteen miles between towns. Call 800-373-6376 for more information.
Cattails to Clouds
Champagne and private flights are available. You may choose your launch site for an extra fee. Open year round daily morning and evening flights, April - October; weekend flights are offered November - March. Call 608-224-1100 for more information.
6612 Mineral Point Road, Madison, WI
Dane County Winter Farmers Market
This farmers market offers a wide variety of items. Produce, bakery, cheese, plants, syrup, honey, wool and much more. Open November 9 – April 19 annually. Call 608-424-6714 for more information.
Dean House
Enjoy the ambiance and furnishings of the Victorian era as a volunteer points out some of the unusual artifacts and tells the history of the building, uses and restoration of this 1856 country home that has been named a Madison Landmark. Open house is held the second Saturday of every month from 2 - 4pm. Call 608-221-1948 for more information.
4718 Monona Drive, Madison, WI
DeJope Bingo & Entertainment
Visit our 1200-seat high stakes electronic bingo hall. Food court is also on site. Open Monday & Wednesday - Saturday 3pm – midnight; Sunday 11am - 8pm; closed Tuesday. Call 888-248-1777 for more information.
4002 Evan Acres Road, Madison, WI
Elvehjem Museum of Art
The Elvehjem organizes and presents a year-round schedule of temporary exhibitions celebrating national and international art and artists. Open year round Tuesday – Friday 9am - 5pm; Saturday & Sunday 11am - 5pm; closed Monday. Call 608-263-2246 for more information.
800 University Avenue, Madison, WI
Elver Park
Tennis courts, lighted softball complex, playground, a large shelter, basketball courts, soccer fields, hiking trails, lighted cross country ski trail, ice skating, hockey, a big sledding hill, and disc golf in the summer. Park open year-round. Cross-country skiing is available dawn - 10pm. 5K of lighted trails. Rentals available during ice skating hours; Skating on weekends only. Call 608-266-4711 for more information.
1240 McKenna Blvd, Madison, WI
Executive Residence / Governor's Mansion
Free, 20-30 minute tour with brief history of first floor reception areas; Freedom Tree photo-ornaments with name & service branch, commemorating friends, loved ones serving in current conflict; optional stroll through gardens with view of Lake Mendota. Operating seasonally - April - August Thursday noon - 3pm first-come basis. Groups over 25 should call for reservation. December holiday schedule is variable; April - August Thursday noon - 3pm.
99 Cambridge Road, Madison, WI
First Unitarian Society Meeting House
In 1947, Frank Lloyd Wright, accepted the architectural commission to build the First Unitarian Society of Madison. Society members pitched in to cut costs, hauling limestone from a nearby quarry. Two major additions have been designed by Taliesin Associated Architects, the first in 1964 and the second in 1990. Guided tours are offered Monday - Friday 10am -4pm; Saturday 9am – noon; Sunday after services. Call 608-233-9774 for more information.
900 University Bay Drive, Madison, WI
George Vitense Golf Land Day & Night
Fun! Enjoy our golf range, miniature golf, Par 3 golf course, baseball and softball, batting cages, water wars, hi-ball, ice cream and snacks. Lessons are available from our PGA golf professionals. Call 608-271-1411 for more information.
5501 W. Beltline Hwy, Madison, WI
Henry Vilas Zoo
One of the state's finest zoos with no admission fee. Children's petting zoo is open in summer; free camel rides most Sundays Memorial Day – Labor Day. Grounds are open daily 9:30am - 5pm. Most buildings open 10am - 4pm year-round. Visitor Center is open April 2 – September 3 10am - 4pm; September 4 - April 1 11am - 2pm. Call 608-258-9490 for more information.
702 S Randall Avenue, Madison, WI
Hiestand Park
The Park is known for its sledding hill, soccer fields, nature trails, playground equipment, basketball and tennis courts, softball backstops, and disc golf year round. Call for dates and times. Call 608-266-4711 for more information.
4302 Milwaukee Street, Madison, WI
House of Wisconsin Cheese
We carry Wisconsin cheese from dairies throughout the state, many other fine Wisconsin products and really neat Wisconsin stuff! In store, you will also find a complete lunch menu. The menu includes sandwiches, soups & ice cream. Mail/online ordering also available Monday – Saturday 9am - 8pm; Sunday 10am - 6pm. Call 800-955-0238 for more information.
107 State Street, Madison, WI
Ice Skating at Tenney Park
The Madison Parks Division needs 2-4 weeks of below freezing temperatures to safely prepare rinks for skating. Open weekdays 2 - 9:30pm; weekends 11am - 9:30pm; December 24, 25 & 31 noon - 5pm; January 1 11am - 9:30pm. Call 608-266-4711 for more information.
1440 E Johnson Street, Madison, WI
Indian Lake Park
At 442 acres, Indian Lake is one of Dane County's largest parks. The park has outstanding natural and historic resources. A winding trail leads to a historic chapel built in 1857, located on a hilltop that provides a breath taking view of the lake and surrounding valley. Park open year-round with cross-country skiing offered during daylight hours. Located at State Road 19. Call 608-246-4576 for more information.
J.T. Whitney's Brewpub
This Micro-brewery and restaurant offers tours anytime, on request. Call 608-274-1776 for more information.
674 S Whitney Way, Madison, WI
Janet's Antiques
18th and 19th century furniture & accessories, including cut glass and fine china. Call 608-238-3300 for more information.
3800 University Avenue, Madison, WI
Kappel's Clock Shop
This is Wisconsin's largest antique clock shop, established in 1971. Open Monday - Friday 10am - 5pm; Saturday Call 608-244-6165 for more information.
2250 Sherman Avenue, Madison, WI
Lake Farm Park & E-Way
Situated on 328 acres the park offers 3 shelter facilities, play equipment, barrier-free boat launch, fish cleaning facility, group camping area, wildlife pond, overlook tower and the Native American Archaeological Trail. Park open year-round with cross-country skiing during daylight hours. Located at Libby Road. Call 608-246-4576 for more information.
Luma Theatre of Light
Spectacular family performances using light technologies and a variety of performance art disciplines. Call 608-222-0077 for more information.
4535 Helgesen Drive, Madison, WI
Madison Art Center
Changing exhibits of contemporary 20th century artists. Open Tuesday - Thursday 11am - 5pm; Friday 11am - 9pm; Saturday 10am - 9pm; Sunday 1 - 5pm. Call 608-257-0158 for more information.
211 State Street, Madison, WI
Madison Children's Museum
This is a hands-on museum for children of all ages. Open daily Memorial Day – Labor Day 9am - 4pm; Labor Day – Memorial Day Tuesday - Sunday 9am - 4pm. Call 608-256-6445 for more information.
100 State Street, Madison, WI
Madison Civic Center
Open year round. Call 608-266-9055 for more information.
211 State Street, Madison, WI
Madison Opera
The Madison Opera produces two major works per year to approximately 6,000 general audience members. In addition, Madison Opera has been successful at producing children's operas for the past three years. Madison Opera's annual Performance for Youth, a matinee performance of our April opera to nearly 2000 Wisconsin high school students. Located at the Madison Civic Center.
211 State Street, Madison, WI
Madison Symphony Orchestra
Conductor John DeMain and the Madison Symphony Orchestra will thrill your senses and lift your spirit with some of the greatest music of all time. Eight concerts, with both a Saturday and Sunday performance, are offered September - April, at the Oscar Mayer Theatre in the Madison Civic Center. Box office is open Monday - Friday 11:30am - 5:30pm; Saturday 11:30am - 2pm. Hours are extended on days of performances in the Civic Center. Call 608-258-4141 for more information.
211 State Street, Madison, WI
Madison Theatre Guild
Recent and upcoming theatre productions include: "A Christmas Story," "Dancing at Lughnasa," "Harvey," and "La Cage aux Folles. Located at the Bartell Theatre. Open year round Thursday at 7:30pm; Friday at 8pm; Saturday at 2pm & 8pm. Call 608-238-9322 for more information.
113 Mifflin Street, Madison, WI
Monona Golf Course
This is a 9-hole golf course of regulation length with undulating, quick greens. Call 608-266-4736 for more information.
111 E Dean Avenue, Madison, WI
Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center
Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, Monona Terrace is a state-of-the-art facility featuring curvilinear forms, dramatic open spaces, and beautiful views of Lake Monona. Open to the public 8am - 5pm daily. Guided tours are offered at 1 pm; groups by reservation. Call 608-261-4000 for more information.
One John Nolen Drive, Madison, WI
Nine Springs Golf Course
Open year round. Call 608-271-5877 for more information.
2201 Traceway Drive, Madison, WI
North Country National Scenic Trail
The North Country Trail is a premier hiking and backpacking trail. All segments of the trail are open for travel by foot for walking, hiking and backpacking. Other non-motorized activities such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are permitted in most locations. Call 608-441-5610 for more information.
700 Rayovac Drive, Madison, WI
Northgate Antique Mall
Antiques and collectibles can be found here. Do not miss our summer outdoor flea market on alternate Sundays. Open Monday - Saturday 10am - 7pm; Sunday 10am - 5pm. Call 608-246-8402 for more information.
1293 N Sherman, Madison, WI
Oasis Day Spa
Operating Monday - Friday 10am - 7pm; Saturday & Sunday 10am - 4pm by appointment. Call 608-273-4313 for more information.
6314 Odana Road, Madison, WI
Odana Hills Golf Course
Open year-round, offering cross-country skiing in winter, during daylight hours. Call 608-266-4711 for more information.
4635 Odana Road, Madison, WI
Olbrich Botanical Gardens & Bolz Conservatory
Explore the 14 acres of outdoor gardens and glass indoor tropical conservatory. Guided tours are available. Outdoor gardens are open daily April - September 8am - 8pm; October - March 9am - 4pm. Bolz Conservatory is open Monday - Saturday 10am - 4pm; Sunday 10am - 5pm year-round. Call 608-246-4550 for more information.
3330 Atwood Avenue, Madison, WI
Olbrich Park
This is a 41.7-acre city park. Call 608-266-4711 for more information.
3300/3402 Atwood Avenue, Madison, WI
Olin-Turville Park
Open year round and offering cross-country skiing during daylight in winter months. Call 608-266-4711 for more information.
1156 Olin-Turville Court, Madison, WI
Owen Conservation Park
Overlooking Madison's west side, this park was the farm 7 personal retreat of former University Professor Edward T Owen. Today, prairies & oak savannas have reclaimed the landscape. Coneflowers, goldenrod, and bluestem are among the many plants that yield a harvest of ever changing color & texture throughout the year. Cross-country skiing is offered in winter. Call 608-266-4711 for more information.
6021 Old Sauk Road, Madison, WI
Pontoon Boat Rentals
Pontoon boat rides are available for the public. Special group rates are offered and we are wheelchair accessible. Open yearly May 1 - September 30 Monday - Saturday 9:30am - 12:30pm /1 – 4pm; 5 – 8pm; Sunday afternoons only. Call 608-266-4711 for more information.
3802 Regent Street, Madison, WI
Rustic Road 19
Bordered on either side by native prairie plants, including numerous stands of wild plum and scattered wild asparagus, R-19 crosses Swan and Murphy Creeks and borders the Waubesa Wetlands preserve. Set back in the evergreens along one side of the road is the William Lalor Farm, originally purchased from the government in 1846. The original deed was signed by President James Polk.
Strollers Theatre
Open year round, Thursday at 7:30; Friday at 8pm; Saturday at 4pm & 8pm; Wednesday for showcase productions 7:30pm performance. Call 608-238-8183 for more information.
113 East Mifflin Street, Madison, WI
Sycamore Park
Open year round. Call 608-266-4711 for more information.
830 Jana Lane / 4514 Nakoosa Trail, Madison, WI
The Bridges Golf Club
Open year round. Call 608-244-1822 for more information.
2702 Shopko Drive, Madison, WI
Token Creek Park
Recreational facilities offering 5 shelters, 5 volleyball courts, a bridle trail, miles of hiking and skiing trails. Access to Dane County's 200+ miles of snowmobile trails. Special facilities to accommodate people with disabilities: fishing pier, 2 playgrounds & elevated boardwalk. Dog exercise, group campground & 38 unit campground Park open year-round. Call 608-246-4576 for more information.
US Highway 51 N., Madison, WI
University of Wisconsin Arboretum
This 1240-acre outdoor ecology laboratory provides examples of major plant communities in the Midwest. Grounds are open daily 7am - 10pm year-round. Visitor Center is open Monday - Friday 9:30am - 4pm year-round; Saturday & Sunday 12:30 - 4pm September – May / Saturday & Sunday 11am - 3pm June - August. Call 608-263-7888 for more information.
1207 Seminole Highway, Madison, WI
University of Wisconsin Geology Museum
The Geology Museum provides educational programs for groups of all ages & backgrounds in the many facets of geology, including rocks, minerals, and fossils. Open Monday – Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm; Saturday 9am - 1pm. Guided tours are available by reservation. Call 608-262-2399 for more information.
1215 W. Dayton Street, Madison, WI
University of Wisconsin Memorial Union
The Memorial Union is the heart and soul of the campus and is a gathering place for people of all ages and backgrounds. Open daily - hours vary. Call 608-265-3000 for more information.
800 Langdon Street, Madison, WI
Warner Park
This is a 174-acre city park that is open year round. Call 608-266-4711 for more information.
2930 N. Sherman Avenue, Madison, WI
Washburn Observatory
1401 Observatory Drive, Madison, WI
Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra
Professional chamber orchestra concerts are offered. Concert dates vary and concerts on the Square (FREE to the public) are held Wednesdays from the end of June through the end of July (6 consecutive weeks). Call 608-257-0638 for more information.
22 N Carroll Street, # 104, Madison, WI
Wisconsin Historical Museum
Three floors of permanent exhibits document Wisconsin history from prehistoric times to the present day. Exhibits encompass the history of Wisconsin's Native Americans, European immigrants, agriculture, mining, lumbering, industry, tourism and political history. Changing exhibits provide a venue for the exploration of other themes in state history. Open 9am - 4pm Tuesday – Saturday; closed Sunday & Monday. Call 608-264-6555 for more information.
30 North Carroll Street, Madison, WI
Wisconsin State Capitol Building
Guided tours of the capitol and dome are offered Monday – Saturday at 9am, 10am, 11am & 1pm, 2pm & 3pm; Sun at 1pm & 3pm. Open daily 6am - 8pm. Call 608-266-0382 for more information.
4 E Capitol Square, Madison, WI
Wisconsin Veterans Museum
Employing exhibits, displays, and presentations, the Wisconsin Veterans Museum tells the story of the men and women from our state who served in America's conflicts from the Civil War to the Persian Gulf War. Open Monday - Saturday 9am - 4:30pm; Sunday April - September noon - 4pm. Call 608-267-1799 for more information.
30 West Mifflin Street, Madison, WI
Yahara Hills Golf Club
Open year round. Call 608-838-3126 for more information.
6701 East Broadway, Madison, WI
Yahara River
The Yahara flows from Madison's four lakes across Dane County to the Rock River. Access is available on either Lake Mendota or Lake Monona, and along the river at road crossings. Locks lead through the series of lakes; some dams need portaging. The current is slow. Call 608-246-3896 for more information.