10 Best Things to Do with Kids in Madison, Wisconsin

For a fun day out, there are plenty of activities in Madison, Wisconsin, especially for the kids.

Here are our favorites.

Visit the Henry Vilas Zoo

The Henry Vilas Zoo is a great place to take kids in Madison.

The zoo has a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears. There is also a petting zoo where kids can interact with the animals. The zoo also has a playground and a picnic area.

Go to the Wisconsin State Capitol

The Wisconsin State Capitol is located in downtown Madison, just a short drive from the family-friendly city of Milwaukee.

This beautiful building houses the state legislature and the governor’s office, and is open to the public for tours. The Capitol is surrounded by a park-like setting with plenty of green space for picnicking or playing catch. Visitors can also take a stroll around the grounds to see the many monuments and sculptures on display.

Take a walk or bike ride around Lake Monona

The Monona Loop is a bike path that circles Lake Monona in Madison.

It is about 6 miles long and is popular with cyclists, runners, and walkers. The path is flat and scenic, making it a great option for families with young children. There are several parks along the route where kids can stop to play.

Visit the Wisconsin Historical Museum

The Wisconsin Historical Museum is a great place to take your family if you’re interested in learning about the state’s history.

The museum has exhibits on a variety of topics, including the state’s Native American history, the settlers who came to Wisconsin, and the state’s role in the Civil War. You can also see artifacts from famous people who were born in Wisconsin, such as John Muir and Laura Ingalls Wilder.

Go on a nature hike at one of Dane County’s many parks

Dane County is home to many parks, making it the perfect place to go on a nature hike as a family.

There are easy, moderate, and difficult trails to choose from, so everyone can find a hike that suits their abilities. After a day spent exploring the great outdoors, you’ll be sure to have worked up an appetite. Luckily, Madison has no shortage of delicious restaurants to refuel at.

Visit the Madison Children’s Museum

The Madison Children’s Museum is a great place to take your family if you’re near Madison.

The museum has interactive exhibits and activities for children of all ages, and there is also a cafe and gift shop on site. The museum is open daily from 9:00am to 4:00pm, and admission is just $8 per person.

Take a tour of the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus

The University of Wisconsin-Madison campus is located on an isthmus between Lakes Mendota and Monona in Madison.

The 936-acre campus includes more than 200 buildings and is home to more than 43,000 students. The university also boasts one of the largest libraries in the country, with more than 30 million volumes. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the campus or participate in a guided tour led by current students.

Attend a performance at the Overture Center for the Arts

The Overture Center for the Arts is a great place to take kids in Madison.

There are a variety of performances to choose from, and the center is designed to be family-friendly. The staff is also very helpful and can provide assistance if needed.

Go swimming at one of Madison’s many public pools

There are many public pools in Madison, and each one has something unique to offer.

For example, the Lake Street Family Aquatic Center has a zero-depth entry pool with a water spray feature, as well as a diving well and lap lanes. The Monona Community Pool has an outdoor pool with a waterslide, as well as an indoor pool. And the Goodman Pool has an Olympic-sized pool with diving boards.

No matter which pool you choose to visit, you’re sure to have a great time swimming with your family in Madison!

Play tourist and walk around downtown to see all the sights!

Downtown Madison is a great place to walk around and take in all the sights!

There are plenty of shops and restaurants to explore, as well as some great views of the lake. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a boat ride on the lake!