As a mom in Madison, I’ve accumulated some great finds when on the never-ending quest to keep my daughter busy! Here are some of my tried and true family-friendly activities in the area, organized by season.
Map
Sections
4
Summer
Autumn
Winter
Spring
Summer
The splash pad here is so fun for little ones and it’s one of the cleanest beaches around!
Fireman's Park Beach
My daughter loves their story times, particularly the outdoor one in the summer! A great cool place to play and read on hot days.
Verona Public Library
Wingra Park has an amazing playground, plenty of green space, and this great boat rental place that often has special events (like floating ice cream sundae bars and live music!)
Wingra Boats
Autumn
From corn mazes to wagon rides, there’s something here for everyone! The obstacle course is a great way to get out energy on the weekends. They also have food!
Enchanted Valley Acres
A national natural landmark, this cool limestone cave in the hills outside Madison is sure to impress even the most jaded teens and tweens!
Cave of the Mounds
This cafe has the best waffles in Wisconsin, and is super family friendly, with a kids menu, high chairs, outdoor seating in the warmer months, and coloring pages. We go here quite often!
Yola's Cafe
Winter
This park has a huge sledding hill, as well as super reasonably priced sled and ice skate rentals. A classic for winter fun!
Elver Park
A smaller hidden gem in sun prairie! This museum provides a great indoor space to play and learn when the weather is chilly or wet.
Explore Children's Museum
A free museum that houses the USA’s largest collection of mustards! You can sample different mustards and play silly mustard-themed games while learning a little niche history. Stop by the neighboring Hubbard Ave Diner for a slice of pie on your way ...
National Mustard Museum
Spring
Madison’s free zoo has a wonderful kids area with a playground, rides and more!
Henry Vilas Zoo
A family favorite for Madison-themed indoor and outdoor golf. Note: the courses are not super stroller-friendly.
