Things to do in Madison

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Madison

Types of activities

Where to stay

Madison travel guide

Madison which includes street scenes and a city

Madison featuring cycling, a garden and signage

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What to do in Madison

Popular places to visit

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Enjoy the student vibe around University of Wisconsin-Madison, a top university in Madison. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Camp Randall Stadium

Catch an event at Camp Randall Stadium during your trip to Madison. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Wisconsin State Capitol

After visiting Wisconsin State Capitol, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Madison. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its entertainment choices.

Capitol Square

You can find out about the history of Madison when you stop by Capitol Square. Visit the area's shops or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Chopped Chicken Salad that was mighty tasty.

East Towne Mall

You can enjoy retail therapy at East Towne Mall during your trip to Madison. Savour the lively bars and top-notch restaurants while in town.

Henry Vilas Zoo

Why not visit the native and exotic animals who call Henry Vilas Zoo home during your travels in Madison? Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

State Street Shopping

During your visit to Madison, you can do some window-shopping at State Street Shopping. Savour the area's restaurants and bars.

Madison doesn't suck. Awesome evening on union terrace.

Memorial Union Terrace

You can enjoy the entertainment at Memorial Union Terrace during your travels to Madison. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Alliant Energy Center

Catch an event at Alliant Energy Center during your trip to Madison. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Areas of Madison

Wisconsin State Capitol building, view from Monona Terrace rooftop.; Shutterstock ID 5305432

Downtown Madison

The ample dining options and fantastic lake views are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Madison. A stop by Orpheum Theater or Overture Center for the Arts might round out your trip.

Monona

Visitors to Monona enjoy its restaurants, and if you want to do some exploring, Aldo Leopold Nature Center is worth a stop.

Campus Area

While visiting Campus Area, you might make a stop by sights like Memorial Union Terrace and Lake Monona Shoreline Run.

USA, Wisconsin. Panoramic view of Fall colors reflected on the still waters of the harbor in Bayfield on Lake Superior.

Marquette

While visiting Marquette, you might make a stop by sights like Yahara Place Park and The Sylvee.

I love this sign. Spotted near the UW Madison campus. #iconography #vaf2012 #octopus #sign #retro

Regent

When in Regent, you can plan a visit to Camp Randall Stadium and Wisconsin Field House, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Found near rocks at the bottom of hill near the restrooms

Bay Creek

Bay Creek might not have many top sights, but Henry Vilas Zoo and Dane County Farmers Market are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Sun Prairie

Frequently asked questions

Is Madison worth visiting?

Known for its dining and culture, discovering fun things to do in Madison is easy. Remember to add Orpheum Theatre to your itinerary when here.

How do I spend a day in Madison?

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Willow Beach and James Madison Beach. Then, check out other parts of Madison for a quick bite and some shopping.

What is the top tourist attraction in Madison?

Don't go home without visiting Orpheum Theatre, rated the top tourist attraction in Madison.

Is three days enough to stay in Madison?

You can easily enjoy leading attractions like Orpheum Theatre, Chazen Museum of Art and Willow Beach with a three-day break in Madison. On average, most travellers plan two days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so linger longer and head to Middleton.

Is Madison a walkable city?

It all depends on what you want to see and do in Madison. Several sights, including Orpheum Theatre and Chazen Museum of Art, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of Madison's best neighbourhoods, Regent is 3 kilometres away from downtown, while Marquette is 3 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.

What are some activities to do in Madison with kids?

Whether you're holidaying with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with fun activities takes your trip to the next level. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Madison with kids.

What to do in Madison for adults?

There are loads of things to do in Madison, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Wisconsin State Capitol or National Mustard Museum.

Are there free things to do in Madison?

In Madison, Chazen Museum of Art is a popular spot for anyone wanting to enjoy the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, check out the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's a simple way to discover the best free things to do in Madison.