Things to do in Madison
The places in Madison that people know best, ranked by readers who live there or have visited. Vote for the ones you would send a friend to, and add the places a top-ten list always misses.
Plan around the weather
The best months to be outside are May and August to September. In January, February, June and December, cold makes the indoor picks below the better bet. Month-by-month weather.
Top picks in Madison
Started in order of how widely each place is written about, then ranked by your votes. Links go to each place's official website. Tick "I've been" to track your count in your city passport.
Rainy or scorching day? Head indoors: Elvehjem Museum of Art, Wisconsin Historical Museum and National Wildlife Health Center.
Parks and sights near Madison
The best-known parks, museums, zoos and landmarks within about 35 miles. Tap Been or Want to add them to your city passport.
- University of Wisconsin-Madison in Madison
- Edgewood University in Madison
Places from Wikidata (CC0), linked to each one's official site or Wikipedia article. Check hours and fees before you go.
Readers' picks
No reader picks yet. Add one in the box at the top of the page. Free things, little-known spots and seasonal events are especially welcome.
Add a pick with a description and website
Local favorites
Where people who live in Madison actually eat, drink, shop and spend Saturdays. Nominated by residents. Businesses cannot pay to appear or move up.
No favorites yet. Name the taco stand, coffee shop or trail you would defend to anyone.
Add a favorite with a description
Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Madison?
Well-known places with their own websites include Elvehjem Museum of Art, University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum, Orton Park, Wisconsin Historical Museum and National Wildlife Health Center. Readers vote the list up and down and add their own picks.
What can you do in Madison on a rainy or very hot day?
Indoor picks include Elvehjem Museum of Art, Wisconsin Historical Museum and National Wildlife Health Center.
When is the best time to visit Madison?
For comfortable weather, go in May and August to September, when highs stay between 62°F and 86°F with modest rain (NOAA 1991-2020 normals).
More about Madison: city profile, weather by month, moving checklist, ask a local.
Starting list from Wikidata (CC0): well-known places in or next to Madison that list an official website, ordered by how many Wikipedia language editions cover them, checked by hand to remove closed places and non-attractions. Opening hours and prices change, so check each official site before you go. Reader picks and favorites are read by a person before they appear.