Things to do in Madison WI: A Guide for Fun and Adventure

Madison is the capital city of Wisconsin and a vibrant destination for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you are looking for cultural, historical, natural, or recreational experiences, you will find something to enjoy in Madison. In this article, we will explore some of the best things to do in Madison WI on this weekend, today, or any day of the year. We will also cover some fun things to do in Madison WI for adults, as well as some free things to do in Madison WI today. So, let’s get started!

Things to do in Madison WI on this weekend

If you are planning to visit Madison on a weekend, you will have plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the most popular things to do in Madison WI on this weekend:

1. Visit the Wisconsin State Capitol: This is one of the most iconic landmarks in Madison and a symbol of the state’s government and history. You can take a guided tour of the building, which features a stunning dome, a grand staircase, a rotunda, and various artworks and exhibits. You can also climb to the observation deck, which offers panoramic views of the city and the lake. The capitol is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays, and admission is free.
   
   
2. Explore the Olbrich Botanical Gardens: This is one of the most beautiful and serene places in Madison, and it features 16 acres of outdoor gardens and a tropical conservatory. You can see various plants, flowers, trees, and sculptures from different regions and cultures, such as roses, orchids, bonsai, Thai pavilion, and more. You can also enjoy events and programs throughout the year, such as concerts, workshops, and festivals. The gardens are open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays (except major holidays), and admission is free for the outdoor gardens and $2 for the conservatory.
   
   
3. Enjoy the Henry Vilas Zoo: This is one of the few free zoos in the country, and it offers a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. You can see over 650 animals from around the world, such as lions, tigers, bears, giraffes, penguins, monkeys, and more. You can also participate in animal encounters and feedings, visit the children’s zoo and carousel, and support conservation efforts. The zoo is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (except Thanksgiving Day), and admission is free.
   
   
4. Experience the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art: This museum is a great place to appreciate modern and contemporary art from local and international artists. You can see various exhibitions of paintings, sculptures, photographs, videos, and installations that showcase diverse styles and themes. You can also visit the rooftop sculpture garden, which offers stunning views of the city skyline and the lake. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays (except major holidays), and admission is free.

Things to do in Madison WI today

If you are looking for some things to do in Madison WI today, you will not be disappointed either. Here are some of the best things to do in Madison WI today:

• Visit the Chazen Museum of Art: This museum is one of the largest university art museums in the country, and it features a collection of over 20, 000 works of art from ancient to contemporary times. You can see paintings, sculptures, prints, photographs, and more by artists such as Rodin, Picasso, O’Keeffe, and Warhol. The museum also hosts special exhibitions, events, and programs throughout the year. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday (except major holidays), and admission is free.
  
  
• Explore the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum: This arboretum is a natural oasis in the city, and it features over 1200 acres of gardens, trails, woods, and prairies. You can see various plants, flowers, trees, and wildlife from different ecosystems, such as lilacs, magnolias, oaks, and birds. You can also enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, skiing, and snowshoeing. The arboretum is open from dawn to dusk daily, and access is free.
  
  
• Enjoy the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center: This center is a stunning architectural masterpiece designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and it offers a variety of cultural, social, and recreational opportunities for visitors. You can see exhibitions, concerts, lectures, and films at the center, or enjoy the rooftop terrace, which offers spectacular views of the lake and the capitol. The center is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday (except major holidays), and admission is free for most events and programs.

Fun things to do in Madison WI for adults

If you are looking for some fun things to do in Madison WI for adults, you will have plenty of options as well. Here are some of the most fun things to do in Madison WI for adults:

1. Taste the Madison Beer Scene: Madison is a great destination for beer lovers, as it has a rich brewing history and a thriving craft beer scene. You can visit some of the local breweries, such as Ale Asylum, Capital Brewery, Karben4 Brewing, and One Barrel Brewing, and sample their beers, tours, and food. You can also join a Madison Brews Cruise tour, which takes you to three breweries and offers tastings, snacks, and trivia.
   
   
2. Experience the Overture Center for the Arts: This center is one of the premier performing arts venues in the state, and it offers a variety of shows and events for all tastes and preferences. You can see musicals, plays, concerts, ballets, operas, comedies, and more by local and national artists. You can also visit the galleries, which feature rotating exhibitions of visual art by emerging and established artists. The center is open from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday (except major holidays), and ticket prices vary depending on the show and seat.
   
   
3. Have Fun at Escape This: This is a fun and challenging activity that tests your wits and teamwork skills. You and your friends are locked in a themed room, such as a haunted house, a pirate ship, or a spy mission, and you have 60 minutes to find clues, solve puzzles, and escape. You can also enjoy drinks and snacks at the lounge before or after your game. Escape This is open from noon to 10 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday (except major holidays), and admission is $28 per person.

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Free things to do in Madison WI today

If you are looking for some free things to do in Madison WI today, you will not be disappointed either. Here are some of the best free things to do in Madison WI today:

• Visit the Wisconsin Historical Museum: This museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Wisconsin and its people. You can see various exhibits, artifacts, and stories that showcase the state’s heritage, diversity, and achievements. You can also enjoy events and programs throughout the year, such as lectures, workshops, and festivals. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday (except major holidays), and admission is free (donations are appreciated).
  
  
• Explore the State Street: This street is one of the most lively and colorful places in Madison, and it connects the capitol with the university campus. You can see various shops, cafes, restaurants, bars, and galleries that offer something for everyone. You can also enjoy street performers, art fairs, and festivals that take place throughout the year. The street is open from dawn to dusk daily, and access is free.
  
  
• Enjoy the Lake Mendota: This lake is one of the largest and most scenic lakes in Madison, and it offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors. You can swim, boat, fish, or kayak on the lake, or enjoy the views from the shore or the piers. You can also visit the Memorial Union Terrace, which is one of the most popular spots on campus, and enjoy live music, food, drinks, and sunsets. The lake is open from dawn to dusk daily, and access is free.

Conclusion

Madison is a city that has something for everyone, whether you are looking for culture, history, nature, or fun. You can find many things to do in Madison WI on this weekend, today, or any day of the year. You can also find some fun things to do in Madison WI for adults, as well as some free things to do in Madison WI today. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Madison today and discover all that this city has to offer!

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