Destination Madison
Top 6 Best Free Things to do in Madison, WI
Madison, Wisconsin, United States
Explore the city Good Housekeeping named a must-see city for its exceptional value. Madison, WI offers many free attractions, museums, events and more.
Destination Madison
Tour the Wisconsin State Capitol
2 E Main St
Madison, WI
Monday:
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday:
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday:
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday:
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday:
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday:
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday:
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
The Wisconsin State Capitol is open daily for visitors to enjoy. Stop in for a self-guided look inside the stunning rotunda and observation deck or take a free guided tour offered on the hour.
Destination Madison
Visit Henry Vilas Zoo
702 S Randall Ave
Madison, WI
Monday:
9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday:
9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday:
9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday:
9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday:
9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday:
9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday:
9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Open 365 days a year, the Henry Vilas Zoo is one of few completely free zoos in the country.
Destination Madison
Visit Olbrich Botanical Gardens
3330 Atwood Ave
Madison, WI
Monday:
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday:
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday:
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday:
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday:
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday:
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday:
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Olbrich Botanical Gardens is home to 16 acres of lush beauty including 14 individually-themed gardens. Take a self-guided tour or hop on the free tram for a guided adventure led by experts.
Destination Madison
Visit the National Mustard Museum
7477 Hubbard Ave
Middleton, WI
Monday:
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday:
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday:
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday:
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday:
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday:
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday:
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Visit one of the country's quirkiest museums where mustard reins supreme and ketchup is considered a "bad word." Learn about the history of mustard and enjoy free mustard tastings featuring specialty flavors and award-winning condiments.
Destination Madison
Enjoy Madison's five lakes
Madison, WI
Madison is home to five lakes, making it a supreme destination for great views and outdoor fun. Bring your own watercraft, dive in for a swim or enjoy activities on the shoreline featuring awesome views.
Destination Madison
Explore the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art
227 State St
Madison, WI
Monday:
Closed
Tuesday:
Closed
Wednesday:
Closed
Thursday:
12:00 – 6:00 PM
Friday:
12:00 – 6:00 PM
Saturday:
12:00 – 6:00 PM
Sunday:
12:00 – 6:00 PM
The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art is a free museum showcasing some of the best local, national and international artists and exhibitions. The free art museum includes a rooftop sculpture garden with stunning views of State Street and the Wisconsin State Capitol.